Pets Options for Expat in Lisbon
Portugal is very welcoming to pets, and you will see many people walking their dogs. Unfortunately, unlike other countries, they haven’t yet caught up with the law that requires one to pick up their dog’s business. You will notice a lot of dog excrement on the streets that is unpleasant.
Pets are even welcome to accompany their owners into most shops, restaurants, and cafes.
All dogs must wear a collar with its name and address attached.
If you wish to bring your dog with you to Lisbon, it shouldn’t be a problem, providing that you adhere to the requirements.
What are the requirements?
Portugal requires that all pets have had the rabies vaccine. They must have the certificate to prove it or have it documented in their Pet Passport. As pets need to be at least twelve weeks old before receiving the vaccine, it might not be possible to bring a puppy. Also, you are required to wait twenty-one days after the vaccine before your pet can enter. The first vaccine is usually for a year, and after that, the three-year vaccine certificates are acceptable.
All pets must be implanted with a microchip, and this must be linked to their Pet Passport. The microchip should be implanted before the vaccine.
As the United Kingdom has left the European Union, the rules regarding bringing your pets to Portugal have changed, and the Pet Passport is no longer an adequate document. If you are relocating with a pet from the United Kingdom, you will need to obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC), valid for four months.
If you have been living in the European Union and have an EU-issued Pet passport, then you will not need to acquire the AHC for travels to and from the United Kingdom.
If you are relocating with your pet from a non-EU country, you will require the Animal Health Certificate.
Bringing a bird, especially a parrot, requires a pet permit.
You will be responsible for duty, insurance, and freight costs for your pet.
No quarantine is required.
Can I take my dog to the beach?
During the high season months, dogs are not allowed on the tourist beaches. These are the beaches that have sunbeds, flags, and lifeguards. However, for the rest of the year, you can take your dog to any beach. Portugal has an incredible coastline of beaches, so it won’t be hard to find a beach to take your dog.
Can I have a pet in an apartment?
Portuguese law states that one may have pets in apartments, up to three dogs or four cats, but not exceeding four pets in total. You should check with the requirements of your apartment complex first as they have different rules.
Are there any dog breeds that are prohibited?
Portuguese law recognizes that some dog breeds are potentially dangerous and may cause injury or death to people or other animals. These dog breeds are not prohibited from Portugal, but there are special requirements to own one.
The owner must be over 18 years and undergo a Psychological Evaluation test. He must have no criminal record and sign a document that he is fully responsible for his animal’s actions. He must also purchase liability insurance.
The potentially dangerous breeds are:-
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Pit Bull Terrier
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Rottweiler
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American Staffordshire Terrier
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Staffordshire bull Terrier
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Fila Brasileiro
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Dogo Argentino
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Tosa Inu or Japanese Mastiff
Where can I adopt a pet?
Adoption is a wonderful way to give a rescue animal a warm and loving home. There are animal shelters where you can adopt a dog or a cat.
Bianca is a wonderful site where you can see online which dogs and cats require a loving home. You may also foster animals. Or why not volunteer and help out at the shelter.
Lisbon Animal Shelter is a council-run establishment for rescue animals. Here you can adopt or foster a pet as well as volunteer.
Adoption Dogs Portugal is another organization that cares for rescue dogs until they find a loving home. Check out their site for pictures and profiles of available pooches for adoption.
Pet food and supplies
You can buy your pet food at the supermarkets or you can buy from specialist pet food suppliers.
Naturea is a Portuguese company that supplies top-quality food and treats for cats and dogs. Their products are available at twenty-four locations throughout the Lisbon area as well as online.
Dog’s Wish is much more than a pet shop. Here you can buy food and all kinds of pet accessories. They also have a pet spa, a veterinarian, and pet sitting services. You can visit the store or shop online.
Perfect Pet is a pet store that sells everything you will need for various pets. They cater to cats, dogs, rodents, rabbits, reptiles, birds, and fish.
Veterinaries
Clinica Veterinaria Jaoa XXI is a clinic in Lisbon. Their slogan is ‘The best veterinary care for your best friend.’ They provide all the necessary pet care that includes everything from vaccinations, dental work to emergency service.
Lambert’s Veterinary Clinic provides all pet care services. This clinic has only five-star reviews, a testament to its excellent service and care.
