How to Relocate Your Pet Safely from the UK to Germany

Moving to Germany from the UK is an exciting new chapter. However, an international move introduces specific challenges and responsibilities, particularly when relocating a pet. You’re not only packing luggage, but you’re also responsible for ensuring your pet’s journey is as safe as possible.

This process depends on understanding post-Brexit rules and preparing the correct documents in advance. The goal is to turn a potentially stressful experience into a smooth transition for both of you. In this blog, we will discuss the manageable steps for pet relocation in Germany, from essential vet appointments to choosing a travel method that minimises stress.

UK to Germany Pet Travel Requirements (Post-Brexit)

Let’s start with the official side of things when considering pet relocation in Germany. Since Brexit, the rules for moving pets internationally from the UK have changed. Your pet’s EU passport is no longer valid for entry from Great Britain. Instead, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). It’s simply the new essential document that proves your pet is microchipped, vaccinated, and fit to travel. 

Germany follows strict EU animal health regulations, which makes the process clear and standardised. You won’t need tapeworm treatment to enter Germany, but you’ll need it for your return to the UK. Let’s discuss the steps while relocating pets to Germany in detail.

Why Are a Pet Microchip and a Rabies Vaccine Required?

This is the first step in the UK to Germany pet travel. You can't proceed without it.

• The Microchip must be ISO-compliant (11784/11785). This is a global standard, so most chips implanted in the UK are fine, but it's worth having your vet scan it at your next appointment to confirm. Crucially, this microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination. If the vaccine is given first, it won't be recognised as valid. The chip number is the primary link between your pet and all its paperwork.

• After the chip is in place, your pet needs a rabies vaccine administered by a UK vet. If it's their first rabies vaccination, or if a previous one has lapsed, you must wait 21 full days after the vaccination date before travelling. This waiting period is mandatory. It’s the single most significant factor that determines your departure timeline. After that, the vet will update your pet's vaccination record.

  
  

Why Is an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) Required?

Think of the AHC as a single-use, short-term pet passport. It's a multi-page, official document that consolidates all your pet's health and ID information. Now you might be wondering, "Who Issues It?" The simple answer is only an Official Veterinarian (OV). Not every vet at your local practice is qualified. 

You must seek a veterinary practice with an OV on staff or use a dedicated pet travel service. The AHC must be issued no more than 10 days before your intended date of entry into the EU (Germany). This tight window is why you need your ferry or Eurotunnel booking confirmed before this appointment. 

The OV will scan the microchip to verify its number, carefully check your rabies vaccination record, and complete the lengthy AHC process. They will issue it in English and the language of your first EU point of entry. The AHC is valid for 4 months for travel within the EU. It cannot be reused once you leave the EU. When considering pet relocation in Germany, mark this as an important step.

Note: To learn more about documentation and regulations for pet transport services in Germany or other EU countries, click here.

Road vs. Air Pet Transport: Which Is Best for Moving?

How you travel to Germany with your pet is a big part of the experience. Driving via the Eurotunnel or a pet-friendly ferry is the most popular choice. Your pet stays with you in the car, which is far less stressful for everyone. It gives you control over breaks and comfort.

Flying is another option, but it’s trickier and more expensive than other modes of transportation. Only a few airlines allow pets in the cabin (for small animals in carriers), and rules are strict. If they must go in the hold, it requires an airline-approved crate and additional preparation. This is why many owners choose pet transport services in Germany via road over air transportation.

What to Do After Arriving in Germany with Your Pets

Once you are in Germany, you should find a local vet. Register your pet with them. They can assess your pet’s health and advise you on whether any additional vaccines are recommended in your area. Keep their contact details handy for the future after pet relocation in Germany.

You should also check the local rules about pets. In many parts of Germany, you must register your dog with the town hall. There is often a small yearly tax to pay for a dog. Some places also require you to have liability insurance for your dog. There is generally no mandatory registration or tax for cats in Germany.

Finally, help your pet settle in. Set up a quiet space with their own bed, bowl, and toys. Try to keep their feeding and walking times consistent with those at home. A routine will help them feel safe and comfortable in the new house and country.

What Are the Pet Travel Requirements for Returning to the UK?

Before you can return to the UK, your dog must see a vet in the EU. This is a firm rule for re-entry. The vet must give your dog a treatment for tapeworm. This treatment must be given within a very specific time window.

The treatment must be done more than 24 hours before you are scheduled to arrive back in the UK. It must also be done less than 120 hours (five days) before that arrival time. If it is done too early or too late, your dog will not be allowed to enter the UK.

The vet will write the details of this treatment in your Animal Health Certificate. They must write it in the correct section, stamp it, and sign it. This is the most important part of your return paperwork. Without this correct entry, you will not be able to bring your pet home.

Conclusion

Pet relocation in Germany from the UK is a manageable process with careful planning. By prioritising an ISO microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and a timely Animal Health Certificate, you lay a solid foundation. Choosing a low-stress travel method and understanding both German local rules and the UK’s tapeworm treatment requirement for return ensures a smooth transition.

Ultimately, while you can manage the move yourself, you may prefer to use experienced pet transport services in Germany. Exec Pets handles pet relocation in Germany via road from the UK. We help you manage all paperwork and the documents required for the UK to Germany pet travel. Additionally, our Mercedes Vito is equipped with CCTV, climate control, and GPS tracking to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort throughout the journey. Call us today!