Traveling to Madeira with Your Pet: Complete Guide for Pet Owners
Pet-friendly hotels, airline tips, emergency veterinary services, pet shops, and even the best activities for pets in Madeira.
Good To Know
Are you planning to visit Madeira with your furry friend?
This guide covers everything you need to know—pet-friendly hotels, airline tips, emergency veterinary services, pet shops, and even the best activities for pets in Madeira.
Can I fly to Madeira with my Pet?
Yes, flying to Madeira with your pet is possible, but not all airlines allow pets on board—except for guide dogs, which are always welcome. For those that do, the rules and costs depend on your furry friend's size, weight, breed, and species.
Pet-friendly airlines flying to Madeira like KLM, AirFrance, Transavia and Lufthansa, including TAP Air Portugal, offer pet - friendly options. Small pets under 8 kg (including their soft carrier) can fly in the cabin, while larger pets in containers up to 32 or 45 kilograms will travel safely in the cargo hold. The container or crate must be suitable for transporting animals. If your pet is an assistance dog, they can travel with you in the cabin at any weight. Airlines have their own rules for transporting animals in the cabin or hold. To avoid surprises, check with different airlines in advance. Compare their pet travel policies, book your ticket, and make sure you have all the required documents ready. This way, you can find the best option for you and your pet!
What do I need to know before buying the ticket to Madeira?
Airlines only have limited space for pets on each flight, so your pet's travel always needs to be confirmed in advance. When booking your ticket, you’ll need to share a few details upfront:
1. What kind of pet you’re bringing. In Portugal, it can be harder to fly these breeds due to their aggressive nature: Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Dogo Argentino, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, and Tosa Inu. Most dog breeds that are bred to have “flattened” or “squashed” faces are banned from travelling on planes. This includes pugs, bulldogs, sharpeis, so on and so forth. The ban is to protect the dogs, it’s just not safe for them to fly. The change in altitude during the flight can make it just about impossible for these dogs to breath.
2. The size and type of the carrier. Maximum dimensions per travel carrier in the cabin is length 40 cm x width 30 cm x height 24 cm. The container for your pet must fit under the seat in front of you, be secure (zippers, no snaps), and have a waterproof bottom. Make sure your pet has enough room to move about, stand and lie down in a natural and comfortable way. However, because each airline has size restrictions on carriers transported both in the cabin and the hold, before buying the carrier, find out what those restrictions are.
3. The total weight of your pet, carrier included. Small pets under 8 kg (including their soft carrier) can fly in the cabin, while larger pets in containers up to 32 or 45 kilograms will travel safely in the cargo hold. Check the policy of the company you fly with, as they can different from one airline to another.
4. Entry requirement. Check the Directorate General for Food and Veterinary Affairs website for the rules, depending on your destination:
Between mainland Portugal and the Autonomous Regions CHECK HERE
Within the EU CHECK HERE
To or from countries non-EU CHECK HERE
! In order to travel with birds and other animals, except dogs and cats, we remind you that you must fill in and send to the Entry Point that applies in your specific case a form to "communicate the arrival’’, of a non-commercial nature at least 48 working hours before arrival. See here the Points of Entry and the contacts to which you should send the information. Veterinary controls for non-commercial pets at Lisbon airport are unavailable between midnight and 6 a.m. Ensure your arrival notice is submitted in advance for smoother processing outside these hours. For exotic species a written authorization may be needed due to health or biodiversity preservation rules.
What are the Pet Travel Key Requirements for entering Madeira?
1. Microchip (ISO compliant) or tattoo (pre-2011), rabies vaccination, and, for non-EU countries, a rabies antibody test.
2. Valid European Pet Passport (for EU residents) or EU Animal Health Certificate (for non-EU countries).
3. Tapeworm treatment.
Important Notes:
1. For pets to enter Portugal, they must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel but no more than one year prior and receive tapeworm treatment not less than 24 hours and not more than 120 hours (1-5 days) before arrival.
2. Pets must enter the EU via designated entry points.
3. Non-compliance may lead to quarantine or return to the origin country.
What are the Pet-Friendly Accommodations in Madeira?
If you wanna stay in the main city - Funchal, we recommend:
*Pestana Casino Studios
*Pestana Carlton Madeira Premium Ocean Resort
*Pestana Madeira Beach Club
*Pestana Promenade
*Pestana CR7
Ritz Hotel
Quinta da Bela Vista
Hotel The Vine
Casa Velha do Palheiro
Se Boutique Hotel
Porto Mare Hotel
Castanheiro Boutique Hotel
Quinta da Casa Branca
Melia Madeira Mare
Hotel Cliff Bay
Turim Santa Maria
Confirm pet policies directly with the accommodation before booking!
*Do you love spending your vacations in Madeira with your beloved pet? Join the Pestana Vacation Club and enjoy the best deals, exclusive offers, and VIP treatment. Their Relations Office will assign you a personal representative to provide dedicated support throughout your stay. For more information, click HERE.
What are the Dog-Friendly Beaches in Madeira?
Funchal, Madeira
The beach is located next to the Cable Car and historical streets of Funchal. The beach has no restrictions except to clean up after them.
Caniço, Madeira
A coastal area known for its promenade where leashed dogs are often seen enjoying the sea breeze alongside their owners.
Porto da Cruz Promenade
Porto da Cruz, Madeira
A scenic walkway along the ocean where dogs on leashes are welcome, offering beautiful views and a pet-friendly atmosphere.
Ponta do Sol Promenade
Ponta do Sol, Madeira
A charming seaside path where leashed dogs can accompany their owners, perfect for a leisurely stroll by the water.
Santa Cruz, Madeira
A popular spot among locals for walking their dogs, this promenade allows leashed pets to enjoy the coastal scenery.
Funchal, Madeira
While the beach itself may have restrictions, the adjacent promenade is a dog-friendly area where pets on leashes are welcome.
Please note that while these areas are generally dog-friendly, it's essential to keep your pet on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
What are the Pet-Friendly Parks in Madeira?
This spacious park in Funchal is ideal for a walk with your dog. With plenty of shaded areas, benches, and stunning views of the city and the ocean, it’s a favorite among locals and tourists.
Jardim do Lido (Funchal)
Located near the Lido Promenade, this small park offers a peaceful spot for a stroll with your dog. Combine your visit with a walk along the pet-friendly promenade.
Ribeira de Santa Luzia Park (Funchal)
A smaller park along the Santa Luzia river, offering a pleasant spot for a short walk with your pet.
Promenade from Praia Formosa to Câmara de Lobos
This scenic promenade stretches along the coastline and is perfect for a longer walk with your pet. The path is paved, and the views are spectacular.
Palheiro Gardens Surroundings (Funchal)
While the main gardens may not allow pets, the surrounding trails and areas nearby are dog-friendly and offer lush greenery for exploration.
Parque Florestal do Montado do Pereiro (Santo da Serra)
Located in a more rural setting, this forest park is a great escape for you and your dog to enjoy nature. The wide-open spaces and forested trails are perfect for a day out.
Tips for Visiting Parks with Your Dog in Madeira:
1. Always keep your dog on a leash unless it’s a designated off-leash area.
2. Clean up after your pet to help keep the spaces dog-friendly.
3. Carry water for your dog, especially during the warmer months.
4. Be mindful of other park visitors and respect local rules.
What are the Pet-Friendly Levadas in Madeira?
Many trails in Madeira are suitable for dogs. Try to choose hikes that are not too steep and mostly flat, such as the Balcony of Ribeiro Frio (PR11), Fanal Walk (PR13), Ponta de São Lourenço (PR 8). If you prefer a trail closer to Funchal, consider Levada dos Tornos. This route is mostly flat and scenic, winding through lush countryside and offering stunning views.
Tips for Walking Levadas with Your Dog in Madeira:
1. Leash and Control: Always keep your dog on a leash, especially around steep or narrow sections.
2. Prepare for the Weather: The weather in Madeira can be unpredictable, so make sure you have enough water for both you and your dog, and be prepared for rain or wind.
3. Respect Nature: Stick to the path, clean up after your pet, and respect the local wildlife.
4. Footwear: Ensure you’re wearing good footwear as some levadas can be rocky or slippery, which could be difficult for your dog as well.
Where you can find Petshop in Madeira, Funchal?
Madeira has many pet shops but not all of them are easy to find online. Here is a list of Pet Shops in Funchal City that can be helpful during your trip. The Google address is integrated into the names.
Things to Look Out for When You Travel with Your Pet to Madeira
It’s important to be aware of potential health risks for your pet while traveling to Madeira. The warm climate and unique environment can expose them to parasites and other health concerns. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pet safe and healthy during your visit. The most dangerous parasite your pet can get in Madeira and is very common is Heartworm. Here is a description:
1. Sandflies and Leishmaniasis
Leishmaniasis is a serious disease spread by sandflies, common in Madeira’s warm climate. It mostly affects dogs, causing symptoms like weight loss, skin issues, and fatigue.
Tip: Use anti-sandfly collars, repellents, or vaccines. Keep your pets indoors during dawn and dusk when sandflies are most active.
2. Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases
Ticks in Madeira can carry diseases like Ehrlichiosis and Babesiosis, which may cause fever, joint pain, and anemia in dogs.
How to Protect: Check your pet for ticks after walks and use tick preventatives.
3. Mosquitoes and Heartworm
Mosquitoes on the island can transmit heartworm, a serious condition affecting the heart and lungs of both dogs and cats.
Stay Safe: Administer monthly heartworm prevention medication before and during your stay.
4. Fleas and Intestinal Worms
Outdoor pets are more likely to pick up fleas and worms. These parasites can cause itching, discomfort, or digestive issues.
Prevention: Keep your pet on flea treatments and regular deworming schedules.
5. Heatstroke and Dehydration
Madeira’s sunny weather can be challenging for pets, especially during hikes or long walks.
Keep Cool: Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours and carry water for your pet.
Are there Emergency Vet Care Centers in Madeira?
If your pet feels unwell, Funchal has 24/7 emergency veterinary clinics ready to help. Save the contact information of local vets in case of any emergencies.
Hospital Details: The Centro Veterinário de Urgência de Funchal (CVUF) operates as a 24-hour emergency clinic for pets. Their team of experienced veterinarians and staff provide high-quality care, ensuring your furry friend receives the attention they need in critical moments.
Services Offered:
Emergency consultations
Surgery and post-operative care
Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, ultrasounds)
Laboratory testing for rapid results
Hospitalization for monitoring serious conditions
When to visit the urgency hospital for Pets in Madeira?
1. Some signs that your pet may need urgent care include:
2. Difficulty breathing or choking
3. Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than a few hours
4. Trauma from falls or accidents
5. Seizures or unconsciousness
6. Any sudden changes in behavior or health
For more information regarding 24H Urgency Clinic for pets in Madeira please visit the website.
It’s always a good idea to call ahead to inform them of the situation and ensure they’re prepared for your arrival. Having access to emergency care gives you peace of mind while exploring Madeira with your beloved pet!
For additional clarifications of a health nature, you can contact the local services:
Directorate of Food and Veterinary Services of the Regional Directorate of Agriculture and Rural Development
Tel. 291 145 465
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