Cuba has long been a popular vacation destination for Brits looking for an affordable sunny island escape from chilly winters. Have you ever thought of visiting Cuba with your dog or if you are even allowed to bring your furry friend? Well, there is good and not necessarily bad news, but news you need to be prepared for if you’re going to experience this amazing Island with Fido.
Pet Requirements
- First get your dog’s pet passport up to date
- Obtain a health certificate through your veterinarian
- Proof of current rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days and not more than 12 months prior to entry.
- Make sure your pet is up to date with all their other vaccinations, including flea & tick, worming and any suggestions your vet may recommend.
I would also recommend that all your documents be translated into Spanish which is the official language in Cuba. The translation should be done prior to governmental endorsement and signed by your vet.
Getting there
If you and your dog are not arriving by yacht or luxury sailboat, you must enter Cuba via José Martí International Airport in Havana. There are many airlines that travel directly from the UK to Cuba. This will mean that you will need an airline approved crate for travel. Make sure you have two copies of your dog’s documents and that your passport is up to date.
If navigating public transport to the airport seems a bit too much to face, then just book a taxi in advance, and be sure to let them know you’re traveling with your dog.
Whew, now that sounds like a lot, but really it’s very easy to do. It’s a simple trip to your vet, which you should do regardless of where you’re traveling with your pooch, especially out of the UK. Now that your dog’s all set, let’s see what Cuba has to offer…
About Pet-Friendly Cuba
Cuba is an island of animal lovers and will be very comfortable seeing a friendly dog by your side. In fact, anywhere you go, there are dogs walking about, and not just strays but family pure breed dogs as well. Did you know that Cuban society is steeped in Yoruba tradition, and believe that dogs are sacred animals and should not be mistreated?
You’re also going to see chickens, pigs, sheep, goats, horses and even cows, especially if you’re roaming around in the countryside. If your dog gets excited too easily by other animals, I would strongly suggest that you keep your pup on a lead when other dogs or animals are about.
Great things to do in dog-friendly Cuba
Know that…
First experiencing Cuba is going to be a little different, your mobile may not always pick up a signal, so download a map before you go. Walking in Havana often means walking in humidity, so pack the water bowl for Fido and some comfy walking shoe for you.
Make sure that you find a great place to base yourself. Either a pet-friendly hotel or vacation rental where both of you can relax and unwind after your day of exploring.
Explore
The Malecon is a great walk and explores all the great areas of Havana. The Malecon is a broad esplanade, roadway, and seawall which stretches for 8 km (5 miles) along the coast in Havana, Cuba. Who doesn’t like a great walk along the seafront? Your dog will love the breeze from the ocean and you will love all the places you’ll see. Start at the end of the Paseo del Prado and head west along the Malecon. Make sure you stop at the many kiosks and rest spots along the esplanade along the way. Along your walk, you will go past the edge of Havana’s Old Town, Chinatown, and Vedado. Cross the Rio Almendares and you have arrived in Miramar which is a residential part of Havana with large mansions and houses and home to many embassies.
Havana’s Old Town is a great place to take a gentle stroll and check out the book market at Plaza de Armas, the Princess Diana Memorial Garden at the Plaza San Francisco de Asis and all the beautiful plazas.
If your looking for stunning views of the sea and capital, another great spot would be a trek up through Vedado to the Universidad de la Habana. The university is a wonderful place to explore and the views offer the water is stunning. A perfect place for a dog-selfie!
Cuba may be off the beaten path, but wandering the quirky but colorful streets of the Cuban capital and experiencing the culture with your pooch in tow can make memories that will last a lifetime.
If you still have any questions or concerns about your visit to Cuba, then get in touch with a travel agent specialising in Cuba such as Cuba Holidays
There are charities working in Cuba to ensure that stray dogs are being spayed/neutered, if you’d like to contribute to this charity then you can do so here at Tap Animal Project.
Have you ever taken your dog to Cuba? Do let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
