Traveling with Pets: Turkey & The EU
A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO BRINGING A PET FROM TURKEY TO THE EU
Non-Commercial Movement: 4 Key Steps
This applies to moving up to five pets (dogs, cats, ferrets) that are traveling with their owner and are not being sold or rehomed. The process takes at least 4 months.
1. Microchip
- The First Step: The pet must be identified with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip. All subsequent procedures are only valid if performed after the microchip has been implanted.
2. Rabies Vaccination
- The pet must be at least 12 weeks old at the time of vaccination.
- The vaccination is considered valid 21 days after the primary injection.
3. Rabies Antibody Titre Test
- Critical Step: Because Turkey is a high-rabies risk country, this blood test is mandatory.
- A blood sample must be taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
- The test must be performed in an EU-approved laboratory. The result must be at least 0.5 IU/ml.
- 3-MONTH WAITING PERIOD: After the successful blood sample is taken, the pet must wait in Turkey for 3 more months before it can enter the EU.
4. Animal Health Certificate (EHC)
Before travel, an official veterinarian in Turkey must issue an EU-compliant Animal Health Certificate. This certificate is valid for 10 days from the date of issue.
Rescues and Commercial Movement
A move is considered "commercial" if the pet is changing ownership (adoption), more than 5 pets are traveling together, or the owner and pet travel more than 5 days apart.
Additional Requirements
- Health Check: An official vet must examine the animal within 48 hours before transport.
- Certificate: A specific commercial health certificate must be created in the EU's TRACES system.
- Point of Entry: The pet must enter the EU through a designated Border Control Post (BCP) for veterinary checks.
Worming, Diseases & Other Essentials
Tapeworm Treatment (Echinococcus multilocularis)
For dogs traveling to tapeworm-free countries (such as the UK, Ireland, Finland, Malta), a specific tapeworm treatment must be administered by a vet between 24 and 120 hours (1-5 days) before entering the destination country. This must be recorded in the travel documents.
Mediterranean Diseases
Especially for rescue animals, it is highly recommended to have the pet tested for diseases common in the Mediterranean region before travel:
- Leishmaniasis: Spread by sand flies.
- Ehrlichiosis and Babesiosis: Spread by ticks.
- Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis): Spread by mosquitoes.
A SIMPLE GUIDE FOR TRAVELING TO TURKEY WITH YOUR PET
Entry Requirements
Traveling from the EU to Turkey with your pet is significantly easier.
Required Documents and Procedures
- Microchip: Your pet must be properly microchipped.
- EU Pet Passport: This is the main travel document, containing all information about the pet, owner, and vaccinations.
- Rabies Vaccination: The vaccination must be valid (administered at least 21 days before travel).
- Health Certificate: Although the passport is often sufficient, it is highly recommended to have a vet issue an official health certificate within 48 hours of your departure to prevent any potential issues at the Turkish border.
Returning to the EU: The Essential Tip!
Avoid the 3-Month Wait!
If you plan to return to the EU with your pet, you must have the rabies antibody titre test done BEFORE you leave the EU, while the pet's rabies vaccination is valid.
- When a successful test result is recorded in the EU Pet Passport before you travel to Turkey, you do not have to observe the 3-month waiting period on your return.
- This is the most crucial step for tourists to ensure a smooth journey back. Always double-check the latest rules with your home country's pet travel authority (e.g., DEFRA in the UK, USDA APHIS in the US).
PETS ON THE PLANE: RULES AND TIPS
In the Cabin (PETC) vs. In Cargo (AVIH)
Always book your pet's ticket well in advance directly with the airline, as the number of available spots is limited. Each airline has its own specific rules.
Traveling in the Cabin (PETC)
- Generally for small dogs and cats with a combined weight (pet + carrier) of up to 8 kg.
- The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, be leak-proof, and well-ventilated. Dimensions are restricted (e.g., Turkish Airlines: 23x30x40 cm).
Traveling in the Cargo Hold (AVIH)
- Larger animals are transported in a special, pressurized, and temperature-controlled cargo hold.
- An IATA-compliant hard-sided plastic crate is required, where the animal can stand up and turn around.
- Note: Some airlines, like Pegasus Airlines, do not transport animals in the cargo hold on international flights at all.
Brachycephalic (Short-Nosed) Breeds & Other Restrictions
At-Risk Group: Brachycephalic Breeds
Breeds like Pugs, French and English Bulldogs, Persian cats, etc., are at higher risk of respiratory distress during flights. Many airlines will not transport them in the cargo hold, especially during hot summer months. Always check the specific rules of your airline.
Banned Breeds
Some airlines (e.g., Turkish Airlines) prohibit the transport of certain breeds deemed "dangerous," such as Pitbull Terriers or the Tosa Inu.
Before the Flight: Preparation and Advice
How to make the journey more comfortable?
- Crate Training: Get your pet comfortable with its travel carrier for several weeks before the trip.
- Food and Water: Do not feed your pet for 4-6 hours before the flight. Small amounts of water are okay. You can attach a water bottle to the crate.
- Sedatives: Do not give your pet sedatives unless specifically prescribed by a vet for travel. They can be dangerous during a flight as they affect blood pressure and breathing.
- Labeling: Attach a large, clear label to the crate with your pet's information, your contact details, and your destination.
LIFE WITH A PET IN TURKEY: PRACTICAL ADVICE
Vets and Pet Shops
Help and Supplies
In major cities and tourist areas, you can easily find good veterinary clinics (Veteriner Klinikleri), many of which offer 24/7 services. There are also plenty of pet shops (Pet Shop) where you can buy high-quality food and supplies.
Safety: Climate, Parasites, and Stray Animals
Heat and Sun
Never leave your pet alone in a car! Avoid walking on hot asphalt during midday and always provide fresh, bottled water. Heatstroke is a serious danger.
Parasites
Ticks, fleas, and disease-carrying mosquitoes and sand flies are common in Turkey. Ensure your pet's parasite prevention is up-to-date and effective.
Stray Animals
Turkey has a large population of stray dogs and cats. Most are friendly, but always supervise your pet and avoid conflicts. Do not let your pet interact directly with unknown animals.
Attitudes and General Rules
Turkish people are generally very animal-friendly, especially towards cats. Dogs are a common sight in public places, but it's always polite to ask if your pet is allowed on a restaurant terrace or in a shop. Always check the rules of your hotel and local beaches in advance.
"Hayvanları sevmeyen, insanları sevemez." – "One who does not love animals cannot love people."