In Monaco, a city-state with an exceptional lifestyle, the well-being of pets plays an important role in everyday life. Although the territory is compact, its infrastructure, veterinary services, and regulations are well-adapted to accommodate dogs, cats, and exotic pets (known in French as NAC: nouveaux animaux de compagnie). This article will guide you through healthcare, public spaces, legal regulations, and available services for pet owners in the Principality.
Regulations and Entry Requirements for Pets in Monaco
Monaco enforces strict rules regarding the importation of domestic animals, in line with European standards. If you’re arriving from abroad with your pet, quarantine is generally not required, provided all health requirements are fully met. This includes having a valid European Pet Passport for dogs, cats, or ferrets, as well as mandatory identification via microchip. Additionally, rabies vaccination must be up to date.
For animals coming from third countries (outside the EU), a rabies antibody titration test is required. This blood test verifies that the animal has developed sufficient immunity after vaccination, ensuring there is no risk of disease transmission.
As for exotic pets, such as reptiles, exotic birds, or rodents, import permits may be required, particularly if the species is protected under the Washington Convention (CITES). These measures are intended to safeguard both public health and endangered wildlife.
Public Spaces and Pet-Friendly Areas
Despite its urban density, Monaco offers several green spaces where dogs are welcome, provided they are kept on a leash and owners maintain cleanliness.
Dog-friendly areas include:
- Princess Antoinette Park: A secure off-leash dog zone allows pets to play freely.
- Jardins d’Apolline: Dogs are allowed on leash.
- Larvotto Promenade: Perfect for walks, especially during off-peak hours.
- Théodore Gastaud Square: A popular and sociable spot for leashed dogs.
- Fontvieille District: Home to several small parks and pedestrian paths ideal for dogs.
- The Rock of Monaco (Le Rocher): Scenic high-ground walks, accessible with a leash.
However, some gardens are off-limits to dogs, such as the Exotic Garden, Princess Grace Rose Garden, and parts of the Saint-Martin Gardens. Signage at the entrance usually informs visitors of any restrictions.
Veterinary Care and Services
Monaco is home to several veterinary clinics offering high-quality care, from routine consultations to emergency services. Below are the main clinics located in or near the Principality:
- Clinique Vétérinaire Monaco-Fontvieille
22 Quai Jean-Charles Rey, 98000 Monaco
Tel: +377 92 05 74 77 - Clinique Vétérinaire Sainte-Dévote
22 Boulevard Princesse Charlotte, 98000 Monaco
Tel: +377 93 25 62 62 - Clinique Vétérinaire Athéna
19 Avenue Crovetto Frères, 98000 Monaco
Tel: +377 93 25 05 04 - La Petite Clinique Vétérinaire
4 Rue du Gabian, 98000 Monaco
Tel: +377 99 92 49 19 - Dr Cristina Robotti
7 Avenue du Général de Gaulle, 06240 Beausoleil (France)
Tel: +33 4 93 41 86 87
Pet Sitting, Walking, and Home Services
Monaco offers a range of professional services for pet care and dog walking. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, several specialized platforms make it easy to find trusted providers. Rover, Holidog, Animaute, and Yoopies allow pet owners to book pet-sitting and dog-walking services with verified and reviewed local sitters. These platforms provide secure bookings and flexible options for your convenience.
Exotic Pets in Monaco: What You Need to Know
Exotic pets, such as ferrets, rabbits, reptiles, parrots, and rodents, are permitted in Monaco, but their ownership is subject to specific conditions. It’s essential to comply with animal welfare regulations to ensure their health and safety. Certain species may also require a special ownership permit or a certificate of competency, confirming that the owner has the necessary knowledge to care for the animal.
French and EU legislation also apply when it comes to owning protected species, which means strict regulatory oversight in certain cases.
Although no veterinary clinic in Monaco is dedicated exclusively to exotic pets, several veterinarians in the Principality can treat them. For more specialized care, it is often advisable to visit advanced veterinary centers in Nice, such as VET REF or Univet.
If you wish to import or keep a protected exotic pet (such as a parrot, reptile, or tortoise), you must obtain a CITES permit. This process is overseen by the Monaco Department of the Environment, the competent authority for endangered species regulation. A permit is required for any import, export, or possession of animals listed under the Washington Convention (CITES).
Applications are submitted directly to the department, along with supporting documents regarding the animal’s species and origin. This ensures full traceability and protection of endangered wildlife.
Department of the Environment
5 rue du Gabian, Le Triton, 98000 Monaco
Tel: (+377) 98 98 88 94
More info: monservicepublic.gouv.mc
In addition, to import an exotic pet (NAC) into Monaco, you must also contact French customs to ensure compliance with all health and legal controls at the border.
A Pet-Friendly Living Environment
Monaco provides a secure, clean, and professional environment for pet owners. With its veterinary infrastructure, pet care services, and accessible green spaces, living with an animal in the Principality is both easy and enjoyable.
As a real estate agency, we’re committed to informing you about every aspect of life in Monaco. If you have any questions about relocating to the Principality with a pet, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll be happy to assist you with your project.
