Pet Travel Rules & Preparation

Before You Travel:

• Documents: Pets need a valid EU Pet Passport (for EU residents) or an Animal Health Certificate (for UK visitors).

• Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped and the details must match their documents.

• Vaccinations: Rabies vaccination is mandatory and must be at least 21 days old.

• Tapeworm treatment (dogs only): Required before entering France if travelling from the UK, Ireland, or certain other countries.

French Laws for Pets in Cars:

Dogs must be restrained in the back seat or boot using a harness, cage, or net. Driving with an unrestrained dog can result in a fine and penalty points.

Other Rules in France:

• Some dog breeds (Category 1 & 2, e.g. certain Mastiffs, Pit Bulls, Staffordshire Terriers) are restricted or banned.

• Dogs must be kept on a leash in towns, and muzzles are required for large/“guard” breeds on public transport.

• Always respect local signage, leash laws, and clean up after your pet.

Travel Tips for Comfort

• Carry water, bowls, food, and waste bags.

• Take frequent breaks – French motorway aires often have green areas for dogs.

• Keep pets cool in summer, with shade and fresh water always available.

• Bring familiar bedding or a crate so your pet feels at home.

Our Pet Policy at Mayenne Holidays*

We’re delighted to welcome well-behaved pets in our two gîtes in Hercé, the house feature individual fully fenced and gated gardens.

We simply ask:

• Pets are not left alone inside or outside the property at any time.

• Please use the provided furniture ‘throws’ on furniture

• Gardens are used responsibly (please clean up after them)

• We accept up to two pets (unless by prior agreement)

*Our property in St Fraimbault does not accept pets.

Pet-Friendly Experiences

Mayenne

• Riverside Walks: Scenic paths along the Mayenne River are perfect for long walks.

• Parks: Parc de la Préfecture in Laval is welcoming to dogs.

• Markets: Many open-air markets (Laval, Château-Gontier) allow pets – check first.

• Exploring Towns: Outdoor cafés and restaurants in Laval or Mayenne often welcome dogs.

• Our Gîtes: Pet-friendly with fenced gardens for safe play.

Normandy

• Beaches: Deauville & Trouville beaches allow dogs in certain areas and seasons.

• Historic Sites: Pets are welcome on Mont Saint-Michel island (on leads), though not inside monuments.

• Gardens & Parks: Jardin des Plantes in Rouen and Parc de la Gare in Caen allow dog walks (check signage).

• Trails: Forest of Fougères and La Vallée des Peintres offer woodland hikes.

• Note: Our gîte in Orne does not accept pets, as it lacks a secure fenced garden.

Brittany

• Beaches: Saint-Malo and Plouha allow dogs at certain times of day – usually early morning/evening.

• Nature: The Brocéliande Forest is a magical spot for dog walks.

• Gardens: Château de Kerguéhennec near Bignan welcomes pets on leads.

• Walking Trails: The GR34 Coastal Path is ideal for adventurous hikers with dogs.

• Markets: Outdoor markets in Rennes and Vannes often allow pets – ask vendors if unsure.

Useful Information

• Vets: Every town has a vet (vétérinaire), and most areas have a 24/7 emergency vet service (vétérinaire de garde).

• Pharmacies: Often stock basic pet medicines and supplies.

• Tip: We recommend guests save the nearest vet’s phone number in case of emergencies.

Details of our local vet in Gorron 

Clinique Vétérinaire de Gorron

Zone d’Activité de la Bourdaiserie,

53120 Gorron,

France

bocage.vetveterinaire.autour-de-moi.com

Phone: 02 43 08 63 06

Opening Hours:

• Monday–Friday: 08:30–12:30 and 13:30–18:30

• Saturday: 08:30–12:30

• Closed on Sunday

By planning ahead and considering your pet’s needs, you can enjoy a wonderful and stress-free holiday exploring Mayenne, Normandy, and Brittany together.