Moving to Germany with Your Furry Friend? Knowing the rules, costs, and how to take pets to Germany from the USA on a vacation or emigrating is crucial. Pet travel to and from Germany is heavily regulated to protect the welfare of animals and people. This guide provides information on how to move pets from the USA to Germany, the documents that are required for the trip, the rules that apply to pets when traveling by air, the different options available for pet shipping, and tips on how to make the trip as smooth as possible.
Can you bring pets from the USA to Germany?
Yes! You are allowed to bring your pets to Germany from the USA, but you have to meet some vaccination, microchipping, and transport requirements. The German government has very strict rules for the entry of animals into the country to avoid introducing diseases and for the welfare of the animals.
2. Requirements for Moving Pets to Germany from the USA
Before booking your flight, make sure you meet the following requirements for bringing pets to Germany from the USA:
✅ Microchipping
- Before receiving any vaccinations, your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785-compliant 15-digit microchip.
- If your pet has a non-compliant microchip, they may be denied entry into Germany.
✅ Rabies Vaccination
- Pets must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel.
- The rabies vaccine must be administered after the pet has been microchipped.
- If your pet has a valid rabies vaccination record, ensure it does not expire before your travel date.
✅ Health Certificate
- A USDA-endorsed Veterinary Health Certificate (Form APHIS 7001) is required.
- A licensed veterinarian must complete the certificate within 10 days of travel and send it to a USDA office for endorsement.
✅ Tapeworm Treatment (Dogs Only)
- If you are traveling to Germany via the UK, Finland, Ireland, Norway, or Malta, your dog will need an Echinococcus (tapeworm) treatment administered 24–120 hours before entry.
✅ Pet Passport (Optional but Helpful)
- Once in Germany, you can obtain an EU Pet Passport, making future travel within Europe easier.
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How to Transport Pets from the USA to Germany
There are three main ways to transport pets from the USA to Germany:
Flying with Your Pet in the Cabin
- Small pets that fit in an airline-approved carrier (usually under 20 lbs) can fly in the cabin with you.
- Airlines that allow cabin pet travel include Lufthansa, Delta, and United Airlines.
- Cabin travel is ideal for pets that are comfortable in small spaces and used to traveling.
Flying Your Pet as Checked Baggage
- Larger pets that don't meet cabin requirements can fly as checked baggage in the climate-controlled cargo hold.
- Airlines have seasonal restrictions to prevent pets from being exposed to extreme temperatures.
Pet Shipping from USA to Germany (Cargo Services)
- For larger breeds or unaccompanied pets, you'll need a pet shipping service that arranges transportation via cargo.
- Lufthansa's Animal Lounge in Frankfurt is one of the best pet transit facilities in the world.
- Reputable pet relocation services include PetRelocation, Air Animal, and Happy Tails Travel.
4. Best Airlines for Pet Travel to Germany
Some airlines are better than others when it comes to pet-friendly policies. Here are the top airlines for pet travel from the USA to Germany:
Costs of Bringing Pets to Germany from the USA
Pet travel costs to Germany vary based on airline policies, pet size, and travel method. Below is a general cost estimate:
- Cabin Travel: $100 – $250 per pet
- Checked Baggage: $200 – $500 per pet
- Pet Shipping (Cargo): $800 – $3,500+ (varies based on pet size & distance)
- Microchipping: $50 – $100
- Rabies Vaccine: $20 – $100
- Health Certificate: $150 – $300
6. Tips for a Stress-Free Pet Relocation to Germany
✅ Book flights early – Airlines have limited pet slots.
✅ Choose a direct flight to reduce stress.
✅ Use a well-ventilated carrier approved by airlines.
✅ Train your pet to stay calm in the carrier before travel.
✅ Ensure all documents are completed well in advance.
Conclusion: Safe & Stress-Free Pet Travel to Germany
If you are planning to bring your pet to Germany from the USA, it is important to plan ahead, know the documentation requirements and pick the proper mode of transport for your pet. In this way, your pet can travel safely and comfortably to Germany.
FAQs About Taking Your Dog to Germany
1. How long does it take to get a pet travel certificate?
It takes about 1–2 weeks to get USDA endorsement after your vet completes the form.
2. Can I bring my dog to Germany from USA, without a microchip?
No, all pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip.
3. What happens if my pet's rabies vaccine is expired?
You must revaccinate and wait 21 days before travel.
4. Are there breed restrictions in Germany?
Yes, Germany bans some breeds, such as Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Bull Terriers, in certain states.
5. Can my pet travel to Germany from USA with sedation?
Most airlines do not allow sedated pets for safety reasons.
6. Do I need a pet passport for Germany if I travel from USA?
No, but it makes future EU travel easier.
7. Can I fly my pet to Germany from USA - in winter or summer?
Some airlines have weather restrictions; always check policies before booking.
8. Are quarantine rules strict in Germany for pets from USA?
There is no quarantine for pets from the USA if all requirements are met.
9. Can I bring exotic pets to Germany from USA?
Certain exotic animals require special permits—check with German customs.
10. Is pet relocation covered by insurance to Germany from USA?
Some travel and pet insurance policies cover pet relocation—check with your provider.
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