How to travel to Russia with a dog? - briefly
To bring your dog to Russia, you'll need to follow certain rules and regulations. Ensure your pet has all necessary vaccinations, including rabies, and obtain an international health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. Additionally, you must have a valid microchip or tattoo for identification purposes.
How to travel to Russia with a dog? - in detail
Traveling to Russia with your pet dog involves careful planning and adherence to specific regulations to ensure a smooth journey for both you and your furry companion. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:
Firstly, it is essential to understand that Russia has strict regulations regarding the import of animals. The primary authority responsible for overseeing these rules is the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (FSVPS). To start the process, you will need to obtain a permit from the FSVPS. This permit is issued based on specific conditions and requirements that must be met by both the owner and the dog.
One of the key prerequisites for obtaining this permit is ensuring that your dog has all necessary vaccinations. Russia requires dogs to be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before travel but not more than one year prior. It is crucial to have the rabies vaccination certificate, which should include information such as the dog's breed, age, and microchip number. Additionally, your dog must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip. This microchip is a standard requirement for international travel with pets.
Another critical aspect to consider is the health certificate. You need to obtain a veterinary health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. The certificate should state that your dog is free from any diseases and parasites, and it must be issued within 14 days of arrival in Russia. It is advisable to consult with your veterinarian well in advance to ensure all necessary tests and treatments are completed before the trip.
Once you have obtained the permit from the FSVPS and the health certificate from your veterinarian, you can proceed with planning your travel. It is important to choose an airline that allows pets on board. Many airlines have specific policies regarding pet travel, so it is essential to research and book with an airline that accommodates dogs. Some airlines may require additional documents or fees for transporting pets, so be prepared for these extra steps.
Upon arrival in Russia, your dog will undergo a customs inspection. During this process, the customs officials will verify all the necessary documents, including the permit from the FSVPS and the veterinary health certificate. It is crucial to have all documents readily available and organized to facilitate a smooth inspection process. After successfully passing the customs inspection, you and your dog will be free to enter Russia.
It is also worth noting that Russia has specific regulations regarding the number of pets one can bring into the country. Typically, individuals are allowed to bring up to two dogs per person. However, it is advisable to confirm this information with the FSVPS or a relevant authority to avoid any potential issues during your travel.
In conclusion, traveling to Russia with your dog requires meticulous planning and adherence to specific regulations set by the Russian authorities. By obtaining the necessary permits, ensuring your dog's vaccinations are up-to-date, and having all required documents in order, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your pet.