Bringing Pets to Ireland: Zeke’s Big Adventure

Hey there, pet lovers! When we moved to Dublin from the USA, leaving Zeke—our English bull terrier—behind wasn’t an option. Good news: bringing pets to Ireland skips quarantine! Still, there’s a process. Here’s how we got Zeke across the Atlantic, step by step, with a wink and a wag.

Step One: Microchip Magic

First, Zeke needed a microchip. Lucky us—he already had one from the States. We just ensured it was registered and readable. It’s the foundation for moving pets to Ireland—ID sorted!

Rabies Shot Countdown

Next, a rabies shot—even though Ireland’s rabies-free. Post-microchip, our New York vet jabbed Zeke, signing the record. Then, we waited 21 days before travel. We timed it for our July 4, 2023 arrival—planning is key!

—

Pet Travel to Ireland: Paperwork and Planes

For bringing pets to Ireland from the USA (an EU “listed third country”), we needed an EU Animal Health Certificate. Within 10 days of flying, our USDA-accredited vet checked Zeke, confirmed his chip and shot, and signed off. We emailed it to USDA APHIS for endorsement—easy peasy.

Then, travel! Dublin Airport allows pets as cargo or in-cabin—not checked baggage. Aer Lingus flew Zeke below deck in an IATA crate. We paid €160, but his “ticket” hit $2,000—so not a vacation fling. For more expat hacks, see my Pro Tips for Yanks category!

Touchdown in Dublin

On July 4, 2023, we landed. An agent whisked Zeke to a vet via van; we trailed in a taxi. The vet scanned his chip, checked papers, and waved us through—no quarantine! Zeke was Dublin-bound from day one. More on that vet saga later—stay tuned to What’s the Craic?.

—

Taking Dogs to Ireland: Restricted Breed Rules

Zeke’s an English bull terrier, on Ireland’s restricted list with pit bulls, Staffies, and more. Entry’s the same, but here, he needs a muzzle, a short lead (max 2 meters), and a license in public. We grabbed his license at An Post—€20 annual or €140 lifetime via licences.ie.

The 1998 Control of Dogs Regulations lists 11 restricted breeds, like Rottweilers and Akitas. XL Bullies? As of October 2024, they’re banned from import unless exempt by February 2025—think neutering and licenses. Check Citizens Information for the latest.

Public Pup Etiquette

In public, Zeke’s muzzled and leashed—rules for taking dogs to Ireland with restricted status. Plus, a collar tag with our details. Dog wardens can fine or seize if we slip up, but Zeke’s set—licensed and tagged!

—

Wrap-Up: Bringing Pets to Ireland Made Easy

So, bringing pets to Ireland took vet trips, timing, and a crate, but no quarantine meant Zeke joined the fun fast. Dreaming of your pup in Dublin? It’s doable—pack patience and treats! Sláinte to pet adventures!