Latvia is a hidden gem for people who love nature and history. Sigulda is a municipality with a giant heart. It is the perfect place for a new start. The air is fresh and clean. The forests are deep and green. I decided to move there with my dog. Moving Pets to Sigulda, Latvia is a big project. It is complex. It is rewarding. This guide shares my personal journey. It covers everything from the first vet visit to the best walking trails.
The goal is a happy life in a beautiful town. Sigulda is famous for its three castles. It is also the gateway to the Gauja National Park. This park is the largest in the country. It covers 91,700 square kilometers. My dog and I love the outdoors. Therefore, this town was the best choice for us.
The Financial Reality of Sigulda
Money is a major factor when you move. Sigulda is affordable for many people. A single person needs about $1,336 every month if they pay rent. If you live without rent, the cost is $926. A couple needs $1,927.30 including rent. A family of four should budget $2,699.30. These numbers help you plan.
The salary in this region is fair. The average monthly salary is $1,240. This is 33.9% more than the average cost of living for one person without rent. It is a comfortable place to live. On top of that, pet care is reasonable. Monthly pet expenses average $125. This range goes from $65 to $215. It covers food, treats, and vet visits.
Housing costs vary. A typical rental home is about $410 per month. Electricity is around $27. Water is $24. Internet and cable TV cost $45. Plus, heat and gas average $105. These are the basic costs. Later, I will talk about the fun parts of the town.
Initial Medical Steps for Your Pet
First of all, you must handle the medical rules. Latvia is an EU member. The rules are strict. Your pet must have a microchip. This is the first step. The chip must be ISO 11784 or 11785 compliant. If the chip is not ISO compliant, you must carry your own scanner. Or, you can have a second chip implanted. Both numbers must be on the health papers.
Next is the rabies shot. This is vital. The pet must be at least 12 weeks old. You must microchip the pet before the shot. If the shot happens first, you must redo it. Wait 21 days after the first rabies shot before you travel.
Additionally, some pets need a rabies blood test. This is the titration test. It is for pets from “unlisted” or high-risk countries. The vet draws blood 30 days after the rabies shot. Then, you must wait three months after the test to enter Latvia. The result must be at least 0.5 IE/ml. Though, if you come from the USA or UK, you do not need this test.
The Paperwork Nightmare
The documents are the hardest part. You need a european health certificate dog. This is for non-EU residents. A licensed vet must fill it out. Then, a government vet must sign it with ink. This is the USDA in the USA or APHA in the UK.
There is also a european pet certificate. This is often called the EU Pet Passport. It is for pets that already live in the EU. If your pet is a visitor, the health certificate is what you use. It is valid for 10 days to enter the EU. After that, it is good for four months of travel within Europe.
On top of that, you must sign a declaration. It states that the move is not for sale or profit. This is the “non-commercial” rule. You can bring up to five pets this way. If you have more than five, the rules change to “commercial”.
The Role of PVD Latvia
PVD Latvia is the Food and Veterinary Service. They are the boss of pet entry. They check your dog at the airport. You can email them at pasts@pvd.gov.lv. Their phone number is +371 67095230. Their main office is on Peldu street 30 in Riga.
Customs will check the microchip. They will look at the rabies papers. If anything is wrong, the pet might go into quarantine. This is at your expense. In the worst case, the pet could be sent back or put down. Therefore, be very careful with your papers.
Choosing Your Airline
The flight is a big choice. Many airlines fly to Riga. However, they have different rules for dogs. First, check your dog’s breed. Some airlines ban “snub-nosed” dogs. This is because they have trouble breathing in the air.
Air France bans the American Bully and English Bulldog. They also ban the French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, and Pugs. KLM has a similar list. They do not allow Affenpinschers or Boxers in the hold. Plus, they ban Cane Corsos, Mastiffs, and Shih Tzus from the hold. These dogs must travel in the cabin if they are small enough.
Austrian Airlines has rules too. They ban “teacup” dogs. They also ban dangerous breeds unless they have a special cage. This includes the American Pit Bull Terrier and Rottweiler. Turkish Airlines also bans Pit Bulls and the Dogo Argentino. Oman Air bans the Bichon Frise and the Japanese Chin.
Cabin or Hold?
Option one is the cabin. This is for small dogs. KLM allows dogs in the cabin if they weigh 8 kg or less. This weight includes the bag. The bag must be 46 x 28 x 24 cm. Your pet stays under the seat in front of you. It is cheap and easy. Usually, it costs 70 to 500 EUR.
Option two is checked baggage. This is for larger dogs. They go in a temperature-controlled hold. The pilot knows they are there. You check them in at the oversized baggage counter. Option three is cargo. This is for dogs flying without their owners. You must use a pet relocation company for this.
IATA Crate Requirements
The crate is the most important piece of gear. It must be safe. It must follow IATA rules. The container must have enough space for the dog to stand. The dog must be able to turn around normally. Plus, it must be able to sit up and lie down naturally.
Here is a simple formula for the size.
- A is the length from the nose to the tail base.
- B is the height from the floor to the elbow.
- C is the width across the shoulders.
- D is the height when standing naturally.
The crate length must be A + ½ B. The width must be C x 2. The height must be D. Additionally, the crate must have ventilation on at least three sides. Some airlines like Turkish need four sides. The door must lock so it does not open by accident. Plus, there must be a water bowl inside with access from the outside.
Arrival at Riga Airport
The flight ends in Riga. This is the closest airport to Sigulda. Non-commercial pets usually enter here. You take your dog to the customs point. They will scan the chip. They will verify the european health certificate dog.
Gradually, you will pass through. If you come from a non-EU country, you might have to pay a fee. This is for the check. If you have an EU Pet Passport, the check is faster. Finally, you are free to go to Sigulda. It is a short drive from Riga.
Life in Sigulda with a Dog
Sigulda is a paradise for pets. In 2019, it was named the most dog-friendly region in Latvia. Dogs are welcome in public places and cafes. There are many walking trails for your four-legged friend.
Walking Trails
First, try the Turaida Ravines and Caves. They are beautiful. Second, visit the wild ravine of the River Vējupīte. Third, walk the route from Sigulda to Krimulda. Paradīzes hill is also a great choice.
Sigulda has rules for walks. You must keep the dog on a leash in towns. In green areas or forests, a leash is not always needed. However, you must stay away from playgrounds. You must also pick up waste. The town provides special bags for this. You can find them at the Key Square and Festivity Square. On top of that, your dog’s collar must have your address and phone number.
Dog-Friendly Cafes and Hotels
Hungry? Take your dog to a cafe. Mr. Biskvīts is a famous spot. It has great cakes. Doma is another family-run cafe with a garden. They serve burgers and burritos. Other cafes include Tobio Sushi, Eklers, and Siguldas Kebabs.
If you need a hotel, try SPA Hotel Ezeri. Hotel Sigulda and Hotel Pils are also friendly to dogs. Even the Livonian Order Castle allows pets in the yard. It is a very welcoming place.
Health and Safety in Latvia
Latvia has some risks. You must be aware. First of all, think about ticks. They are very common in the grass and forests. Some ticks carry encephalitis. This is a brain disease. It can be very dangerous.
Get a vaccine for yourself. It costs about 25 to 30 EUR. You need two initial shots and then a booster every few years. There is also a special vaccine for dogs. Ask your vet about this. Plus, always check your dog for ticks after a walk. Lyme disease is another risk, but it is treated with antibiotics.
Driving and Traffic
Traffic is another concern. The roads in Latvia are not always good. Some have potholes. Streets in Riga can be a disaster. You must use low beam headlights at all times. This includes during the day.
Winter tires are mandatory from December 1 to March 1. Spiked tires are banned from May to October. Be careful when you walk your dog near roads. Lights do not always illuminate people well. Reflective patches on your clothes are a good idea.
Local Rules
Do not drink beer in public. If you stand on the street with an open bottle, you can be fined. The fine is up to 142 EUR. Plus, you cannot sit on the grass in some parts of Riga. Sigulda is more relaxed, but follow the signs.
Crime is low, but be smart. Do not leave valuables in your car. Bicycle theft happens often. Always lock your bike to something solid. Riga’s “sleeping districts” are the least safe areas. Sigulda is generally very safe.
FAQ
Can I bring my dog to Latvia?
Yes, you can bring your dog to Latvia, provided you follow European Union import regulations. Your pet must be identified with an ISO-compliant microchip, have a current rabies vaccination, and possess a valid health certificate or pet passport.
How to move pets from one country to another?
There are three primary ways to transport pets internationally: in-cabin (under the seat), as checked baggage (in a temperature-controlled cargo hold), or as cargo through a specialized pet relocation company.
Is Latvia rabies free?
No, the European Union does not recognize any countries as rabies-free, and all dogs and cats entering Latvia must have proof of a current rabies vaccination.
Which EU airlines allow pets in cabin?
KLM, Air France, Lufthansa, and Austrian Airlines are among the carriers that allow small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin within specific weight and size limits.
Do pets go in cargo on planes?
Yes, pets that are too large for the cabin can travel in the cargo hold as checked baggage on the owner’s flight, or they can be shipped as separate cargo through freight forwarding companies.
Concluding words
Moving a pet to Sigulda, Latvia, is a manageable process when adhering to EU standards for microchipping, rabies vaccinations, and official health certification. Sigulda is uniquely positioned as a premier destination for pet owners, having been recognized as the most dog-friendly region in 2019 due to its welcoming cafes, hotels, and extensive nature trails in Gauja National Park. By selecting appropriate airline travel options and preparing the necessary documentation, you can ensure a safe and stress-free relocation for your dog to this scenic Latvian municipality.
