How to get a Pet Passport
How to Get a Pet Passport in Ireland | Pet Travel Guide | Cara Veterinary Group Dublin
Travelling with your pet from Ireland? Cara Veterinary Group in Dublin issues official EU Pet Passports and provides rabies vaccinations, microchipping, and expert travel documentation support. Learn exactly how to get a pet passport for your dog or cat - step by step.
Pet Passport Ireland - Explained
Wondering how to get a pet passport in Ireland? The team at Cara Veterinary Group makes the process easy and compliant. Pet passports are issued directly by your vet once your pet meets all the health and vaccination requirements for travel. Whether you’re travelling within the EU or overseas, we’ll guide you through every step.
Everything you need to know about pet passports, rabies vaccination, and pet travel from Ireland - explained by the veterinary team at Cara Vet Group, Dublin 15 & Dublin 7.
Quick Links
- Book Online – Schedule your Pet Passport & Rabies Vaccination Appointment
- Download Pet Passport Application Form (PDF)
- Pet Travel Advisory & Administration Service
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Pet Passport in Ireland
In Ireland, EU Pet Passports are issued by private veterinary practices once your pet meets all travel requirements. Here’s how the process works:
- Microchip your pet – This must be done before or on the same day as the rabies vaccination.
- Rabies vaccination – Administered by your vet at least 21 days before travel (day of vaccination = day 0).
- Minimum age – Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old for rabies vaccination eligibility.
- Submit application – Complete and sign the Pet Passport Application Form.
- Turnaround time – Approximately 4–5 working days for processing and passport preparation.
- Optional photo – Bring a 6cm x 4cm colour photo clearly showing your pet’s face and markings.
Tip: Always double-check that your pet’s passport information is legible and accurate. Errors may result in travel delays or border refusals.
Rabies Vaccination – What You Need to Know
The rabies vaccine is mandatory for travel outside Ireland. Your pet must be microchipped before or on the same day as vaccination. You must then wait at least 21 days before travelling. Boosters are required to maintain validity.
Book your Rabies Vaccination appointment online now.
Travelling Outside the EU
For destinations such as the USA, Canada, Australia, or the Middle East, additional steps are required, including rabies titre blood tests, export health certificates, and official documentation from the Department of Agriculture.
Save time with our Pet Travel Advisory & Administration Service. Our travel experts manage all veterinary forms, liaise with airlines, and ensure your pet meets international entry requirements - giving you complete peace of mind.
When You Receive Your Pet Passport
Your EU Pet Passport allows your pet to travel freely within member states without quarantine, provided all vaccines remain valid. Always ensure your rabies vaccination is up to date before travelling.
- Wait at least 21 days after your first rabies vaccine before travelling.
- Keep booster vaccinations current - no waiting period after boosters.
- Store your passport safely and bring it to every vet visit for updates.
Tapeworm Treatment for Dogs
Dogs returning to Ireland must receive tapeworm treatment (Echinococcus) between 24 and 120 hours (1–5 days) before re-entry. This treatment must be administered and recorded by a vet in Section VII of your pet’s passport.
This rule does not apply for travel between Ireland, the UK, Finland, Malta, or Norway.
Health Certificates for Airline Travel
Some airlines require an official Health Certificate issued within 48 hours of departure. To arrange this, please email Vickie or call 01 885 3253 at least 72 hours before your flight to schedule your pre-travel examination.
Extra Travel Advice
- Treat your pet for ticks before travelling to prevent Lyme Disease and other parasites.
- Check airline and ferry carrier requirements in advance - rules can vary.
- Ensure all documentation is valid and legible before departure.
- Carry digital and printed copies of all forms for border checks.
Need Help or Advice?
For personalised pet passport or travel assistance, contact Practice Manager Vickie Fenlon on 01 885 3253 or vickie@caravetgroup.com. Advice is available for animals resident in the Republic of Ireland only.
Official Pet Travel Resources
- Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine – Pet Travel Guidelines
- DEFRA UK – Taking Your Pet Abroad
Where to Find Us
- Cara Veterinary Hospital – Ballycoolin, Dublin 15: 01 885 3253
- Cara Veterinary Clinic – Phoenix Park Gate, Dublin 7: 01 838 8338