Practical Tips for Travelling in Ireland with Your Pet

For a lot of us, leaving a beloved pet at home is like leaving a family member out of a trip. Travelling with a pet requires a touch of preparation, especially when you’re navigating different laws, customs, and climates. The good news? We’ve compiled all the must-know information so you can travel with your best friend.

Coming from Abroad? Start with Pet Travel Rules

Ireland has strict but manageable rules when it comes to importing pets. Dogs entering Ireland from abroad must:

• Be microchipped,

• Have an up-to-date rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel),

• Possess an EU Pet Passport (for EU travelers) or a valid Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for dogs from Great Britain,

• And be treated for tapeworm (Echinococcus multilocularis) within 1–5 days of entry if coming from certain countries, including the UK.

For ferry and airline travel, check with carriers ahead of time — Aer Lingus, for example, doesn’t allow pets in the cabin, but some ferries (like Irish Ferries and Stena Line) offer dedicated pet cabins or onboard kennels.

By Road - Car Travel and Pet Safety

Once in Ireland, the car is your best bet for exploring freely with your dog. But there are a few things to note:

• Dogs must be safely restrained — either in a crate, behind a dog guard, or wearing a canine seatbelt harness.

• Never leave your dog alone in a parked car, even on overcast days — Irish weather is unpredictable, and overheating happens fast.

• Stop regularly for water, short walks, and the odd sniff-and-explore session. Good rest areas include large service stations, Loughcrew Megalithic Centre (Meath), the Glen of Aherlow (Tipperary), or Portlaoise Plaza, which has a designated pet area.

Where Dogs Can and Can’t Go

Ireland is increasingly dog-friendly, but it pays to be aware of restrictions:

• National Parks like Glenveagh, Killarney, and Connemara welcome dogs on leads — but only on designated trails.

• Beaches often allow dogs year-round, but check local signage — some implement seasonal restrictions (typically May to September).

• Farms and rural trails require extra care: always keep dogs on leads near livestock, and never let them enter fields with animals uninvited.

A good rule of thumb: if unsure, ask. Many pubs, cafés, and even shops are happy to accommodate well-behaved dogs, especially outside of peak dining hours or in outdoor areas.

Health & Safety - Vets, Ticks, and Emergencies

Ireland’s  beauty comes with a few risks for dogs — namely ticks, particularly in wooded or grassy areas. Carry a tick remover and check your dog daily, especially after hikes.

Make a note of nearby 24-hour veterinary clinics, especially if you're venturing far from cities.

Major towns usually have emergency vets, and many clinics are happy to provide advice over the phone.

Bring a basic canine first-aid kit: tweezers, antiseptic wipes, a tick hook, gauze, and any medications your dog needs.

Packing List for Your Dog

Spending a weekend in Donegal or a week touring the Wild Atlantic Way? Pack accordingly!

• Lead and harness (plus a long-line for beaches),

• Poop bags — and plenty of them,

• Travel bowls and bottled water,

• Dog food (some specialty brands are harder to find in Irish shops),

• A towel for muddy paws (a must),

• Your pet’s documents, just in case.

Bonus: many Irish shops sell charming, locally-made dog gear — a tweed collar from Kerry makes a great souvenir for your pup.

Respect and Responsibility

Ireland is warm and welcoming to dogs — but responsible pet ownership is expected. Clean up after your dog, keep them on a lead unless otherwise indicated, and be mindful of noise or over-excitement in shared spaces.

If your dog is nervous around crowds or other animals, avoid busy markets or outdoor festivals where tight spaces can be overwhelming.

With a little planning, you and your companion can make memories across the island that are muddy, magical, and unforgettable!