Moving to Croatia: Pet Relocation Tips

Published on November 4, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Relocating to Croatia with your faithful four-legged companions is an exciting and rewarding adventure, but requires meticulous preparation to ensure their well-being and safety.

Understanding import rules and formalities, along with mandatory vaccinations and required documents, is essential to avoid hassles upon arrival.

Additionally, learning about best acclimatization practices and available local services, such as trusted veterinarians and pet-friendly spaces, helps create a welcoming environment for your companions.

This process requires carefully anticipating each step to ensure a smooth transition to this charming country, offering stunning nature and remarkable quality of life.

Administrative Procedures for Bringing Your Pets to Croatia

European Passport and Identification

Each pet must have a valid European pet passport issued by an authorized veterinarian. Identification via an ISO-compliant microchip is mandatory; a readable tattoo remains valid if applied before July 3, 2011.

Vaccinations and Schedule

• The rabies vaccination is mandatory.
• It must be administered to an animal at least 12 weeks old.
• The vaccine must be given at least 21 days before entry into Croatia and remain valid per manufacturer recommendations.
• Booster shots must be up to date.
• For animals from high-risk countries, a rabies antibody titer test may be required.

Parasite Treatments

No systematic deworming treatment is required, except for certain third countries or specific cases. However, administering treatment for internal and external parasites before departure is recommended.

High-Risk Dog Breeds

Croatian regulations prohibit the entry of certain dog breeds considered dangerous if not properly trained or if they pose a risk to public safety. It is advisable to check with Croatian authorities for the exact list of affected breeds and any muzzle or leash requirements.

Border Procedures and Potential Fees

• Upon arrival, a customs officer checks the passport, microchip, and veterinary certificate.
• If documents are non-compliant, entry may be denied, the animal quarantined or returned, with costs borne by the owner.
• Quarantine or return fees vary; it’s best to budget accordingly.

Additional Documents for Air or Sea Transport

• Airlines and shipping companies generally require a recent health certificate (less than 7-10 days before departure).
• Transport must be in a crate certified to IATA standards for animals in cargo.
• Specific documents may be required depending on the carrier or departure port/airport.

Document Preparation Tips

• Schedule a vet appointment at least one month before departure to verify vaccines and obtain the passport.
• Check the validity of the microchip and passport.
• Scan and print all official documents (passport, certificates, vaccination proofs, rabies titer if needed).
• Inquire with transport companies about specific conditions.

Requirements Summary

Requirement	Detail / Advice
European passport	Issued by vet, up-to-date, with identification
ISO microchip	Mandatory, check compatibility before departure
Rabies vaccination	Mandatory, at least 21 days before arrival
Rabies titer	Sometimes required, depending on country of origin
Parasite treatment	Recommended, not systematic
High-risk breeds	Check list and specific conditions
Border control	Documents verified, fees for non-compliance
Air/sea transport	Health certificate, IATA crate, carrier conditions
Contacts	Veterinarian, embassy, Tourist Office, customs

Tip: Prepare a complete file with all original documents and copies, easily accessible during checks. Contact Croatian authorities or check their official website a few weeks before departure for any regulatory updates.

Ensuring Your Pet’s Well-Being During Travel

To ensure your pet’s well-being during travel to Croatia, it’s essential to carefully prepare each step, whether by plane, car, or train.

Practical Tips by Transport Mode:

Plane

• Book a flight that accepts pets and inquire about the airline’s rules.
• Choose an approved, comfortable carrier large enough for the animal to turn around and lie down.
• Place a familiar blanket or cushion inside, along with a toy or item with their scent.
• Acclimate the animal to the crate several days before departure: let them explore the space, give treats inside, gradually increase time spent in the carrier.

Car

• Use a secure crate or appropriate harness attached to the seat belt.
• Take regular breaks every 2-3 hours to let the animal stretch, drink, and relieve itself.
• Always keep fresh water available and avoid feeding right before departure to reduce motion sickness risk.
• Bring their toys and bed to comfort the animal.
• Maintain a pleasant temperature in the vehicle.

Train

• Check the railway company’s pet transport conditions.
• Prepare a comfortable carrier and familiarize the animal with this space in advance.
• Keep water and some treats within reach.
• Opt for routes with few connections to minimize stress.

Carrier Selection and Acclimatization:

Criterion	Recommendation
Size	Large enough for the animal to turn around
Ventilation	Good airflow, non-toxic materials
Safety	Secure closures, no sharp parts
Comfort	Add cushion, blanket, or absorbent mat

• Gradually acclimate the animal: leave the crate open in a familiar space, place toys or treats inside, increase usage duration over several days.

Sedation Procedures and Comfort During Travel:

• Consult a veterinarian before considering any sedatives; never use medication without medical advice.
• Maintain regular hydration.
• Plan breaks for walks during car trips.
• Use familiar toys or items with home scents to soothe the animal.
• Avoid sudden routine changes right before departure.

Pre-Travel Formalities to Verify:

• Veterinary visit for a general health check.
• Update mandatory vaccines (especially rabies).
• Identification with an internationally compliant microchip.
• Obtain the European pet passport and health certificate attesting to the animal’s good health.
• Check specific restrictions by breed and age (prohibition for certain dogs and animals under 15 weeks).

Documents to Prepare Before Departure:

• European pet passport
• International health certificate
• Up-to-date vaccination record
• Proof of electronic identification

Precautions Upon Arrival:

• Let the animal explore the new environment gradually, under supervision.
• Maintain feeding routines and walk schedules as much as possible.
• If travel involves time zone changes, adjust meal and walk times over several days to ease transition.
• Monitor for signs of stress or discomfort and allow time to adapt.

Additional Tips:

• Carry a veterinary first aid kit.
• Bring bags for waste disposal.
• Research pet-friendly spaces and beaches in Croatia.

To ensure your pet’s well-being, every detail matters: preparation, comfort, safety, and compliance with formalities are essential for a successful journey.

Adapting to Croatian Life: Tips for Your Four-Legged Companions

Climate and Impact on Pets

Croatia has a varied climate: Mediterranean on the coast (very hot, dry summers, mild winters) and continental inland (cold winters, warm summers).

For pets, this means:

• Risk of heatstroke during summer, especially for brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced) and older animals.
• Need for shaded shelters, constant fresh water, and avoiding outings during the hottest hours.
• In winter, provide coats for cold-sensitive dogs, particularly in inland regions.
• Protection against parasites (ticks, mosquitoes) more prevalent in spring and summer.

Adaptations to Consider

• Adjust walk schedules (morning or evening in summer).
• Prefer shaded or wooded areas.
• Take precautions for paw pads on hot surfaces.
• Prepare a first aid kit and anti-parasite products.
• Check for water sources during extended outings.

Green Spaces and Pet Recreation Areas

Space Type	Examples / Regions	Main Rules
Dog beaches	Split (Duilovo, Znjan, Kasun), Rijeka, islands of Krk, Rab, Cres, Pag, Brac, Korcula, Peljesac, Dubrovnik (Mlini)	Generally leashed, clean up waste
National parks	Plitvice, Krka (dogs allowed on leash with exceptions)	Leash mandatory, prior approval for overnight stays
Urban spaces	Public parks in major cities	Dogs often accepted on leash
Café terraces	Very often accepted, ask staff permission	Respect other customers’ peace

Local Regulations in Public Spaces

• Dogs must be leashed in public and natural areas, including most parks and permitted beaches.
• Mandatory waste cleanup.
• Access to classic beaches often prohibited, but many beaches are specially designated for dogs.
• In transport (buses, ferries), acceptance depends on the provider, and dogs generally must be muzzled or in carriers for small sizes.
• Some national parks restrict access or require prior declaration for overnight stays.

Integration into Local Culture and Interactions

• Croatians are generally welcoming toward pets, especially in tourist areas.
• Respect others’ peace and consider potential fear of dogs among some residents or tourists.
• Greeting other dog owners during walks and discussing accessible spaces is common.
• Well-trained and clean animals are appreciated.
• In accommodations or restaurants, always ask permission before bringing the animal.

Practical Tips for Transition

• Allow a gradual adaptation period to the new environment.
• Maintain feeding routines as much as possible, while adapting to local availability (some international brands may be rarer).
• Introduce any dietary changes gradually to avoid digestive issues.
• Bring the animal’s familiar items (cushion, toys, bowl) to comfort and reduce stress.
• Use calming pheromones or consult a veterinarian for marked stress.
• Ensure vaccines and parasite treatments are updated upon arrival.
• Contact a local veterinarian upon settling in.

Key Takeaways

Pets’ adaptation to life in Croatia involves preparation, compliance with regulations, climate considerations, and integration into local culture. Prioritizing the animal’s well-being ensures a successful transition.

Pet Services and Culture in Croatia: What You Need to Know

Pet Services in Croatia

• Veterinary clinics: Veterinary practices are present in all cities nationwide. Vets are reputedly competent, and fees are generally lower than in Western Europe. Many also sell pet food, accessories, and care products.
• Specialty stores: Numerous pet stores are found, especially in urban areas, along with specialized sections in supermarkets for food and accessories.
• Pet boarding: Several establishments offer pet boarding, mainly around major cities and tourist areas.

Service	Availability	Main Remarks
Veterinary clinics	Widespread	Affordable rates, recognized competence
Pet boarding	Moderately widespread	Especially near major cities
Pet stores	Widespread	Food and accessories easily found

Local Regulations for Care and Transport

• Air transport: Pets can travel in cabin (generally up to 8 kg) or cargo depending on the airline. The number of pets per flight is limited; advance booking recommended.
• Ferry transport: Dogs are admitted on leash.
• Buses and taxis: Acceptance varies by driver and animal size. On intercity lines, animals may travel in crates in cargo, sometimes with a paid ticket.
• Rental cars: Possible, but notify the company and protect seats.
• Public spaces: Dogs must be leashed. Some beaches and parks are specially designated for pets.

Importing Pets to Croatia: Main Requirements

• European pet passport (issued by a veterinarian).
• Microchip identification (or tattoo applied before July 3, 2011).
• Up-to-date rabies vaccine (vaccination must be at least 21 days old and valid).
• Veterinary certificate attesting to health status for animals from non-EU countries.
• Maximum number of animals allowed: 5 per person (non-commercial movement).
• Border controls: Mandatory document presentation; if non-compliant, the animal may be refused entry or quarantined at owner’s expense.

Requirement	Obligation
Pet passport	Yes
Electronic identification	Yes
Rabies vaccine	Yes
Veterinary certificate	If from outside EU
Animal limit	5 animals/person

Croatian Culture and Pet Welcome

• General attitude: Croatians generally show a benevolent attitude toward pets, especially dogs and cats, which are frequently present in urban and rural households.
• Public spaces: Pets are accepted in many parks, some beaches (marked dog beaches), and increasingly, cafés or restaurants tolerate pets, especially on terraces.
• Events and activities: Numerous dog shows and competitions are held annually in different regions. These events are very popular and reflect growing interest in animal welfare.

Practical Tips for Expatriates

• Quickly contact a local veterinarian to ensure pet health follow-up.
• Research beaches or parks specially designated for pets: spaces are clearly marked, especially in coastal tourist areas.
• Always carry bags for waste cleanup (mandatory in most cities).
• Be vigilant in public transport, where pet acceptance depends on staff discretion.
• Participate in local pet events to facilitate integration and meet other owners.

Pet-Friendly Places and Activities

• Urban parks: Numerous, often equipped with dog areas.
• Dog beaches: Marked with signs, particularly on the Adriatic coast.
• Hiking trails: Many routes accessible with pets, ideal for outdoor activities.

Pets are welcome in Croatia, provided you comply with health and local regulations, and prepare in advance for the journey and the animal’s integration into daily life.