Entry requirements for refugees with companion animals fleeing Ukraine
Many seeking protection are currently fleeing the war zone, some of them accompanied by their companion animals. Crossing the border into the EU and Switzerland can be problematic: Ukraine is considered an unlisted third country regarding rabies, resulting in stricter entry requirements for companion animals. On top of the fear and suffering the people are subjected to, they are also faced with the threat of having to leave behind their beloved animals.
March 9, 2022
The European Commission has therefore advised member states to temporarily relax the entry requirements for refugees fleeing to safety in the EU with their companion animals. Some countries, including Germany, have agreed to the request, and are now allowing entry with animals without permit requirements. The animal owners are only requested to contact the local veterinary services upon entry for further measures.
Switzerland is now following suit and, in exceptional cases, is allowing for dogs and cats to enter the country with their guardians even if they do not meet all entry requirements. The Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO) is asking animal guardians to fill out a form available on its website and send it to petsukraine@blv.admin.ch.
Due to the high epidemiological risk, entry with poultry, hoofed and cloven-hoofed animals is still prohibited. The FSVO is requesting animal guardians to immediately contact local veterinary authorities.
In the view of the Stiftung für das Tier im Recht (Foundation for the Animal in the Law; TIR) Switzerland's efforts are not enough to guarantee the promised fast and unbureaucratic help for traumatized refugees and their companion animals. It is imperative to avoid complicated requirements, like filling out and sending forms – something that can prove impossible for those fleeing war. TIR is collaborating with other animal welfare organizations to ensure that the Switzerland waives its remaining bureaucratic requirements and unconditionally allow refugees to enter with their companion animals.