Moving to Portugal is a dream for many, but bringing a dog along requires careful planning. Portugal is known for its love of dogs, yet presents certain challenges for pet owners. Expecting freedom to explore, the author, traveling with a Pomeranian named Mishka, encountered unexpected difficulties that any pet owner should consider.
To bring a dog into Portugal, specific requirements must be met: a microchip, vaccinations against rabies and other diseases, and a 21-day quarantine after vaccination. Additionally, an exit certificate is needed a few days before travel. Despite common myths, Russian vaccines are accepted if legal in the departure country, and unauthorized vaccines may indeed lead to issues.
The challenges extend beyond paperwork. Booking a ticket for a dog can be an ordeal: not all airlines transport animals, and some require lengthy confirmations. Budget carriers like Ryanair and Wizzair do not transport pets, and traditional airlines such as TAP Portugal demand prior approval via their call center or social media.
Upon arrival, Portugal may not be as pet-inclusive as one might hope. Although the Portuguese love animals, dogs are restricted from cafes, public transport, and some parks. According to the author, attempts to enter cafes or museums with a dog often end in refusal, complicating an owner’s daily life. Lisbon’s narrow sidewalks also make walking with an energetic dog challenging.
Nevertheless, there are positives. Pet-friendly housing is relatively easy to find, and Portuguese locals often adopt dogs from shelters, showing a responsible attitude toward animals. A few dog parks allow pets to run off-leash, and popular meeting spots for dog owners, such as Eduardo VII Park in Lisbon, offer a sense of community.
Portugal is a unique destination for those traveling with pets, but it demands patience and preparation. Dog lovers may need to adapt to restrictions since the freedom of movement in Portugal is less than it initially seems.
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