A dedicated veterinarian carefully records information while four adorable kittens peek curiously from a woven basket. (Elnur (123RF))
NAS 1, Bldg. 318
Phone: +39 095-56-4258 | DSN: 624-4258
The Sigonella VTF does not offer emergency care for pets.
Installation vet offices do not provide after-hours emergency care for pets. Ask at the VTF for a list of clinics on the Italian economy. Visit a couple to find one that is right for you and establish a relationship so that you will feel confident going there if an emergency arises.
To enter Italy, you must furnish proof that your pet has:
An international 15-digit microchip.
A current rabies vaccination that meets OIE standards and blue-ink-signed certificate.
A certificate of health. If coming from the U.S., this must be APHIS Form 7001.
Your pet must be at least 6 months old.
More arrival details can be found at www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel/us-to-another-country-export/pet-travel-us-italy.
Within 10 days of your pet’s arrival or adoption, you should register with the Sigonella VTF. The VTF will provide important information about pet ownership in Sicily.
Within 90 days of your pet’s arrival or adoption, it is local law that your pet be registered with the regional Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale (ASP). This is ASP Catania for all pets of service members living in the Marinai Housing Community on base.
Your pets must have identification tags and should not wander freely. You are responsible and can be sued for damages to individuals or property caused by your pets, so it is recommended to purchase liability insurance. Coverage is inexpensive and can save you from future headaches.
Keep your pet up to date on vaccinations. Talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s vaccination status and parasite prevention needs at your pet’s annual wellness exam!
Dogs
Rabies (core): Staying up to date on rabies vaccination is essential for being able to PCS with your pet. Rabies is preventable with a vaccination, but always fatal if contracted.
DAPv (core): Protection against Canine Distemper Virus, Canine Adenovirus type 2, and Canine Parvovirus.
Leptospirosis (optional): Highly recommended because Leptospirosis has a heavy presence in Italy. It is spread through the urine of infected animals and contaminated water sources and can cause life-threatening organ damage.
Bordetella (optional): Highly recommended for all dogs visiting dog parks, groomers and boarding facilities, or if you utilize a pet-shipper when moving. Certain countries require the Bordetella vaccine for entry.
Lyme disease (optional): For dogs with frequent exposure to ticks in Lyme endemic areas.
Cats
Rabies (core): Staying up to date on rabies vaccination is essential for being able to PCS with your pet. Rabies is preventable with a vaccination, but always fatal if contracted.
FVRCP (core): Protects cats from Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Feline Calicivirus and Feline Panleukopenia which are highly contagious and life-threatening feline diseases.
FeLV (optional): Considered a core vaccine for cats less than 1 year old. Cats should be tested for this feline Leukemia prior to initial vaccination.
Administer parasite preventatives all year round.
Ectoparasite prevention: monthly topical medication or medicated collar labelled for the prevention of fleas, ticks and biting flies. Leishmaniasis, carried by sandflies, is endemic to Sicily. Pets that contract this disease may remain infected for life and be barred from re-entry to certain parts of the United States.
Endoparasite prevention: monthly oral medication that prevents intestinal parasites and heartworms (spread by mosquitoes).
Planning to travel with your pet? You’ll need a European Pet Passport before traveling around Europe. Make an appointment with ASP Catania to acquire one. Depending on your destination, your pet may need a pre-appointment with a veterinarian for special anti-parasite prevention administration.
If you are traveling without your pet, be sure to find a boarding facility or pet sitter early as they can be fully booked months in advance, especially for the summer and winter holiday seasons.
Start preparing your pet at least three months in advance! It is your responsibility to ensure your pet has all required prerequisites and documents for travel. The VTF staff can provide guidance. To move from Italy to your next assignment your pet will need the following (and maybe more):
An international microchip (15 digit).
A current rabies vaccination that meets OIE standards and blue-ink-signed certificate.
Your pet must be at least 6 months old.
A health certificate
All commercial flights: Italian Health/Export certificate issued by the ASP
Air Mobility Command (AMC) flights: health certificate from the VTF
Additional requirements depending on your travel mode, itinerary and destination.
