Different types of pets ()
If you’ve brought your furry friend to Italy, you must register them at your installation’s veterinary clinic within the first 30 days of arriving.
REQUIRED VACCINATIONS AND RECOMMENDED PREVENTATIVES
Rabies: (Mandatory) Both dogs and cats must get an annual rabies vaccination. Pets are required to wear their rabies tags at all times to serve as a visual marker of vaccination status.
Leptospirosis: (Recommended) If you haven’t already, you need to get your pet a leptospirosis vaccination as soon as possible. Leptospirosis has a heavy presence in Italy and without proper vaccination, it can cause kidney failures in pets.
Heartworm, flea and tick: (Recommended) Ensure your pets are on heartworm preventative medicine as well as flea and tick control medicine year-round.
ITALIAN VETERINARY CLINICS
Taking your pet to an Italian veterinary clinic is recommended for emergency and specialty needs. Italian veterinary clinics are called “Ambulatoria Veterinario” and are important to be registered with. Contact your installation’s clinic for a list of local Italian vet clinics in your area.
ITALIAN PET REGULATIONS
Animals must never be left tied up and unattended.
Keep your dog leashed in populated areas and anytime someone approaches.
Shelter must always be provided for your pet.
Feral cats are protected by Italian law, so consider keeping your housecat inside.
Food and water must always be easily accessible for your pet.
Every pet must have the 15-digit ISO- compliant international microchip This is also a form of identification if they are ever lost and brought into a vet clinic.
Choke chains, pinch collars and shock collars are illegal in Italy and punishable with fines.
TRAVELING WITH YOUR PET
Requirements
All pets must have their 15-digit international microchip.
Rabies vaccination must be up to date and given after the international microchip was implanted.
EU Pet Passport must be with you and your pet at all times when traveling.
Muzzles must be carried (not worn) for all dogs when in public.
Animals must be contained while riding in vehicles (carrier or harness).
TRAVELING WITHOUT YOUR PET
If you plan on traveling while in Italy, there may be some trips where your furry friend can’t tag along. Once you register your pet at your duty station’s vet clinic, they will provide a list of local boarding facilities.
