The WM Pet Connection

by Tiffany Jansen

Who doesn't like to travel? You get to see new things, try new foods, meet people. Perhaps the Netherlands is not at the top of your list, but having lived there for almost two years, it is certainly a country I would highly recommend!

Anyone who’s ever owned a dog knows they really are man’s best friend. For many people they’re considered family. The good news for those wishing to travel to the Netherlands with their dog is that it is an extremely dog-friendly country. If you’re planning on bringing your dog with you on your next visit to the Netherlands, here’s what you need to know.


Before departure, make sure you have the following:

• Passport – your dog must have a valid passport to travel to and within the Netherlands and Europe. This can be obtained through your veterinarian.
• Rabies vaccination – this must have been done no more than a year and no fewer than 30 days before your departure. Vaccination information will be noted in your dog’s passport.
• In most cases, the Netherlands does not require your dog to be quarantined. However, this depends on the country you are traveling from. For more information, visit the website of the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality in the Netherlands.
• Health certificate – also given to you by your veterinarian. This shows that your pet is in good health and is caught up on all appropriate vaccinations.
• Airline compliant crate – this varies by airline. Once you know which airline you’ll be traveling with, check their website for pet travel guidelines and requirements. There will be an extra fee charged to fly your dog.
• Microchip for identification purposes. Note: Identification tattoos will no longer be accepted after July 2011

Of course, you'll need accommodation!

Most hotels in the Netherlands allow dogs. Be prepared to pay an extra fee, however. When you call to make your hotel reservations, be sure to confirm whether or not they allow pets and what extra fees they charge.


Once you're in the Netherlands, you can travel with your dog by

Train - Small dogs may ride the train free of charge. For larger dogs, a train ticket must be purchased. A day-ticket for a dog is € 3. No matter what size your dog happens to be, he or she is not permitted to sit in a separate seat.

Other modes of transportation - Pets are also permitted on the bus, tram, and metro in the Netherlands. You will only be charged for your dog if he or she takes up a seat, in which case you will be charged full fare for your pet.


Places to play and if your dog's gotta go.

Hondenspeelweiden are dog parks located throughout each city in the Netherlands. There your dog can play and relieve him or herself. Many of these hondenspeelweiden permit dogs to run without a leash.

Hondentoiletten are dog toilets. All dogs must be kept on a leash at a hondentoilet.

As long as your dog uses the hondenspeelweide or the hondentoilet, you do not need to clean up after him or her. However, should your dog make use of an area not associated with these clearly marked dog locations, you are responsible for picking up after your dog.



Things to see and places to be...

As long as there is no signage indicating otherwise, your dog is allowed in most public places. This includes bars, cafes, restaurants, parks, and stores.

Signs prohibiting dogs are easily spotted in prominent locations outside your destination. They are most often white circles outlined in red with a black depiction of a dog in the center. When in doubt, simply ask.

Restaurants, cafes, and bars will usually ask if your dog would like some water. If they don’t, feel free to request some on your dog’s behalf. They are more than happy to comply and usually have a few bowls set aside for this express purpose.

Most restaurants have resident cats, so be sure your dog can remain calm in the presence of a feline should you take your dog out with you to eat.

Dogs are permitted on the beaches in the Netherlands only during the off-season. This is usually from November through April. If you are planning to visit the beach during your stay in the Netherlands, go to the beach's website for exact dates.

No dogs allowed. Under no circumstances are dogs allowed in churches. Most museums, castles, and art galleries also do not allow dogs inside. Check individual location websites for details.

All this information was collected in 2010 and is subject to change. Always do your own research before traveling (with or without your pet) and ask if you are uncertain. Also be sure you know what is required to get your dog back into your home country when your stay in the Netherlands in over.

Photo: Elizabeth Aldridge via Getty Images

What you need to know when traveling with your dog to the Netherlands