How to Move Your Pet to Switzerland: A Guide for Pet Parents
Bringing Dogs with Docked Tails or Ears to Switzerland
Switzerland strictly prohibits the import of dogs with cropped ears or docked tails. However, exceptions are available for specific situations, including:
- Families visiting Switzerland for holidays
- International citizens relocating to Switzerland
In these cases, a special permit and approval from the Swiss Government are required. If you're planning to relocate your pet with a pet relocation company, WorldCare Pet is here to assist you. Our experienced Pet Relocation Counselors will guide you through the approval process, ensuring your pet complies with all Swiss regulations.
For more information or assistance with your pet relocation to Switzerland, contact us today.
Banned Breeds in Switzerland
The following breeds are banned from certain cantons in Switzerland including:
- American Staffordshire terriers
- Argentine mastiffs
- Brazilian mastiffs
- Bull terriers
- Dobermans
- Mastiffs
- Neapolitan mastiffs
- Rottweilers
- Spanish mastiffs
- Staffordshire bull terriers
- Tosas
Please Note: Depending on where your pet(s) are in reference to the health requirements for travel, it can take up to 3-4 months before they are eligible to enter Switzerland.
Health Documents for Moving Pets to Switzerland
Make sure to keep all original health documents with your pet's at all times. Do not pack or take them with you—they are your pet’s “passport” for travel!
Proof of Ownership
You must have maintained ownership of your pet(s) for more than 6 months prior to their export to Switzerland
Health Requirements for Pets to Enter Switzerland
Microchip
Microchip Timing: Your pet's microchip must be implanted before receiving their most recent vaccinations.
ISO-Compliant Microchip: Ensure your pet is identified with a 15-digit, ISO-compliant microchip or AVID
chip (9 digit)
Regular Microchip Scans: Ask your veterinarian to scan your pet's microchip during every vet visit. Confirm the microchip is functioning, readable, and matches all medical records.
Avoid Travel Delays: If your pet's microchip is unreadable or its information is incorrect on paperwork, it could delay their travel plans.
What Vaccines Are Needed For Your Pet?
Rabies VaccineTo enter Switzerland the rabies vaccination must be at least greater than 21 days old and remain unexpired at the time of travel:
- Your pet(s) MUST be at least 12 weeks old at the time of their first rabies vaccination for entry into Switzerland.
- A 3-year vaccine is accepted for travel inter-EU as long as your pet has never had a lapse.
Additional Vaccines
The General Vaccinations are not mandatory for travel, but are HIGHLY recommended for the safety and well-being of your pet.
For Dogs:
- DHPP+L: Protects against Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, and Leptospirosis.
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Should be done in the last 6 months.
For Cats:
- FVRCP: Protects against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia.
These optional vaccines help protect your pet from common diseases, ensuring a safer travel experience.
FAVN-OIE Rabies Titre Test
If your country of origin is a high-risk rabies country then a Government Accredited Veterinarian must collect a blood sample 30 days or more AFTER the most recent rabies vaccination and send it to an approved laboratory for testing.
The blood sample must be collected by a government-accredited veterinarian in the country of origin and send to an approved laboratory for testing.
NOTE: It can take 4-6+ WEEKS to receive the rabies titre test results back from the laboratory.
Document Requirements for Pets to Enter Switzerland
EU Health Certificate
A Government Accredited Veterinarian must examine your pet(s) and complete the EU Health Certificate within 10 days of your pet(s)' planned departure.
If you decide to work with WorldCare Pet, your Pet Relocation Counselor and our team in your origin country can assist with this step.
FAQ: Moving Pets to Switzerland
PawPrint City Guides For Switzerland
Planning pet transport to Switzerland? Explore our PawPrint Guide for safe, pet-friendly services, including veterinarians, boarding kennels, dog parks, pet groomers, and pet shops!
Contact Us
Ready to start your pet’s journey? We’re here to help! Discover our Switzerland pet shipping services and see why pet parents choose us. From start to finish, we provide complete door-to-door care for your furry friend.