Travelling to Corsica with your dog: what you need to know for a successful vacation
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What could be better than going on vacation? Well, going on vacation with your pet, of course! But before you start planning your trip with your dog or cat, you should know that having a pet by your side requires a little organization and information before departure. To help you, here's what you need to know about traveling with pets.
What paperwork do I need to travel with a dog or cat?
Your pet must travel in an airline-approved crate.
Departing from mainland France, your dog or cat must also :
- be at least 8 weeks old
- be identified by a microchip or tattoo
- have up-to-date vaccinations
- have a health record issued by a veterinarian or a European passport
- provide proof of a rabies vaccination certificate that is more than 21 days old, but less than one year old if leaving the country.
Air Corsica: Travelling with your pet
Each airline has its own rules for controlling pets (dogs or cats only). For air travel, it is imperative to inform the airline of your pet's presence when booking your trip. Depending on the pet's weight, it may travel either in the cabin or in the hold, subject to the airline's approval. Please note that a passenger can only travel with one pet. You must pay the cost of passage and present the necessary documents at the airport.
It is advisable to arrive at the time check-in begins, and not at the last minute, as you will have to remove your dog from its crate just before the screening process begins and carry it with you (the empty crate will pass through the baggage sieve separately).
In both cases, whether your dog is in a crate in the hold or in a travel bag in the cabin, make sure there is a "live animal" sticker on both sides of the means of transport in which your pet is travelling, and attach a note with your name, flight number, contact details and information about your dog.
Some airlines do not accept any animals on board except guide and assistance dogs. This is the case with Ryanair and EasyJet, for example.
Which animals can travel by plane?
All cats and dogs are generally accepted by national airlines, with the exception of dangerous dogs (category 1 or 2). Rodents such as hamsters and rabbits are not allowed, but small birds may be accepted from time to time. Please note that certain animal species are protected in Corsica, so if you'd like to take a turtle home with you, be aware that this is strictly forbidden!
Travelling with your dog or cat by boat
Depending on the ferry company, your dog will travel with you either in a cabin or in a kennel. So it's important to find out about travel conditions in advance.
Corsica ferries regulations
Your pet can accompany you wherever you go, provided it is kept on a leash and muzzled. Special cabins are available for dog and cat owners. Dog toilets (Animal Hygiene Zone) are also available. Don't forget your dog's vaccination record, and bring along a carrier, bowl, kibble and poop bag, just in case.
Corsica Linea rules:
The ship is equipped with a kennel where all animals must be deposited before departure and throughout the crossing. To secure the cage, the owner must provide a padlock.
Like the airlines, the number of kennels per ship is limited. You'll also have to pay a supplement for your pet.
Finally, you should be aware that pets can also suffer from seasickness, including vomiting. To help, feed your pet at least half a day before departure and just before boarding. For animals easily prone to stress, the administration of anti-anxiety or anti-motion sickness medication can be of great help. Don't hesitate to ask your vet for advice.
Once he's arrived, a walk to stretch his legs is an excellent idea to help him get back into a good mood!
Taking your dog to the beach? Where to go in Corsica with your dog?
Corsica is a reputedly dog-friendly destination, and most beaches allow dogs on leashes (see the list here ). Of course, in very hot weather, it's best to leave Toutou at home, and in the morning or evening you can take him for long walks along the Corsican coast or on the famous Gr20!
We wish you and your protégé an excellent trip to Corsica!
