Having chosen Portugal for holidays or permanent living, many people like to bring their domestic pets with them. Whilst we understand that your pets may also be your best friends, we recommend that you give serious thought to bringing them with you, as it may not be in their best interests. We hope the following information will help you make your decision.
In mediterranean countries there is a fairly high incident of infectious diseases and parasites. As many of these illnesses & parasites do not exist in the animals’ country of origin, they are particularly vulnerable as they may have little or no immunity. Thus it is recommended that your dog should be vaccinated against parvovirus, esgana, hepatitis, parainfluenza and leptospirose. Don’t forget that the vaccines are only effective from 21 days after injection.
Parasites include fleas, ticks, flies and mosquitoes that can transmit diseases like leishmaniose and and dirofilariose. These tend to effect dogs more than cats. To prevent leishmaniose there is a collar called Scalibor;, that repels the mosquito flobotomo, the transmitter of this disease. There are two other products that protect against the mosquito bite: Pulvex Spot On and Advantix. Against dirofilariose or heartworm there are products capable of killing the microfilarias bloodsuckers before they grow into adults. Heartguard Milbemax and Interceptor. However, if your animal already has this disease, application of the product could be fatal. Consult you vet.
It is recommended that cats are vaccinated against panleucopenia, calicivirose, clamidiose, felinas rinotraqueite and leukemia. Cats will need a monthly application of a product against fleas and ticks and try to ensure your cat avoids contact with street/stray cats as the incidence of AIDS and leukemia in these animals is high, and there is no treatment for AIDS. Cats that never have any contact with other cats can be vaccinated against panleucopenia, calicivirose and rinotraqueite.
Dogs and cats must be re-vaccinated annually.
Dogs and cats in Portugal will need to have an internal deparasitation – an initial dose repeated after 15 days – every 3-4 months.
With regard to your pets’ hygiene and diet, it’s the same as in any part of the world. It’s better to give dry food rather than left-overs or tinned food as higher temperatures lead to faster decomposition and higher risk of parasites. Never give raw meat to cats as it may cause Toxoplasmosis. Bath your animals frequently.
There are many stray/unwanted dogs and cats in Portugal that are desperately in need of good homes, so if you do decide not to bring your pets with you, please consider taking in a ‘native’ animal who will already be used to the climate and more resistant to diseases and parasites found in Portugal.
If you have any doubts or questions contact your vet.