Tuscany is an ideal place to spend an unforgettable vacation, and that includes the moments you share with your loved one. faithful four-legged canine companion. If you're planning to discover this wonderful region of Italy with your dog, here are some useful tips and information to help you prepare for your stay.
Preparing your trip
First of all, before you set off on your vacation in Tuscany with your petIf you're traveling in Italy with a dog, it's essential to check that your dog's documents are in order. Here's a list of the documents you'll need to travel to Italy with your dog:
- Pet passports : since 1991, entry to European territory has been subject to presentation of an animal passport issued by an approved veterinarian.
- Vaccination against rabies and echinococcosis: Vaccination must be carried out at least 21 days before departure and must appear on the passport. Your dog does not need to be treated for echinococcosis (Echinococcus multilocularis), as Tuscany is free of this infection (check with your veterinarian, as this may change).
If your dog is very young, make sure it has been vaccinated. Italy prohibits the entry into their territory of young animals that have not been vaccinated against rabies, or that have been vaccinated, but is not yet fully immune. - Microchip or tattoo : Dog identification must be visible and comply with European standards CE 197/2009. Your dog must wear a electronic chip in accordance with the technical requirements of Annex II of the EU Regulation on the movement of pet animals. Alternatively, a clearly legible tattoo applied before July 3, 2011 is accepted.
- Maximum 5 dogsIt is forbidden to travel in Europe with more than 5 pets, unless you can prove that they are going to a competition or are less than 6 months old.
See the precise rules here: https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/carry/animal-plant/index_fr.htm
Beyond the administrative formalities, it's essential to ensure your dog's comfort and well-being during the trip. Prepare a first-aid kit including anti-motion sickness medication, and remember to bring a leash, bags to pick up after your dog and enough food to last the duration of your stay.
Finally, in Italy your dog will generally be welcomed, but don't forget that by law he must travel muzzled (especially in town). Whatever his size (and even more so if he's big), so don't forget his muzzle. If you don't already have one, spend some time choosing one that's comfortable for travel and hot weather.
Finding suitable accommodation
Once you've made your travel arrangements, find accommodation in Tuscany that accepts dogs. In Tuscany, there are many options for staying with your pet:
- Pet-friendly hotels and B&Bs: Most hotels in Tuscany welcome pets in their rooms. Rates vary according to accommodation type, location and services offered.
- Vacation rentals : Choosing a vacation home or apartment gives you more space to relax with your dog, and a more comfortable, pleasant environment.
- Campsites : Tuscany boasts a number of campsites with special facilities for pets, ready to welcome you and your faithful companion.
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Don't forget to check the pet-friendly conditions for your chosen accommodation, as some establishments may apply restrictions in terms of dog size or breed.
Discovering Tuscany with your dog
As we've said, your dog will be made to feel very welcome everywhere in Tuscany. For example, you won't be told what to do in supermarkets and so on.
Cultural and sightseeing tours
Tuscany is rich in cultural and historical heritage. However, it is important to check whether the sites you wish to visit are dog-friendly:
- The museums and art galleries generally have strict rules governing access to animals. It's best to ask beforehand, but you may be refused access.
- It's best to choose outdoor toursYou'll also find a wide range of attractions, such as gardens, parks and public squares, which are great places to take a walk with your dog. Visiting historic villages is a good idea: you can stroll through the narrow, picturesque streets of villages such as San Gimignano, Volterra or Pienza with your pooch.
- Visit the vineyards is a great idea: Tuscany is famous for its quality wines and vineyards. There are many wineries offering guided tours and wine tastings for visitors accompanied by their dogs. You can also walk through the vineyards with your dog and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
For example, the Piaggo Museum (between Pisa and Florence) accepts dogs with no worries... you can look at the Leaning Tower of Pisa from the outside (without paying) with your dog... but it will be difficult to get inside.
If a museum is important to you, but you're refused access with your dog, and there are two of you... why not invite one of you to have a coffee on the terrace while the other takes a tour?
Nature walks
Tuscany also offers a wealth of green spaces to share unforgettable moments with your four-legged friend. Among the must-sees are :
- Maremma Natural Park: located in the south-west of the region, this park is home to a wide variety of landscapes (marshes, hills, forests...) and animal species. Dogs are allowed on a leash.
- The Apuan Alps Park: A natural treasure in northern Tuscany, this park is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. There are numerous signposted itineraries, suitable for all levels and accessible with a dog.
- Beaches : on the tuscan coastSome beaches, such as Parco della Maremma and Bibbona, are dog-friendly. Please note that dogs are not allowed on beaches anywhere in Italy during the bathing season (May 1 to September 1). For the rest of the year, there are no problems.
It's important to respect natural areas and their rules of access, while making sure to pick up after your dog and not disturb local wildlife.
A few extra precautions
Travelling with your dog also means taking a few safety and health precautions:
- Temperatures : summer in Tuscany can be particularly hot. Remember to protect your pet from the sun and provide it with enough water to avoid dehydration. As usual, bring water bottles and a small bowl,
- Mosquitoes: Although Tuscany is not known for its mosquitoes, some areas, particularly marshes, present a risk of mosquito bites. Protect yourself and your pet with appropriate repellents, and check your pet's skin regularly for parasites.
- Health : Before your departure and on your return, consult a veterinarian to make sure your pet is in good health and to carry out any necessary preventive treatments (vaccinations, anti-parasite treatments...).
In short, traveling with your dog in Tuscany requires a minimum of preparation and vigilance, but it's well worth it to fully enjoy the riches of this magnificent region. All the ingredients are there for a unique and memorable vacation in the company of your faithful friend!
https://www.gites-en-toscane.com/
