Italy Pet Relocation Demand Skyrockets
Italy pet relocation inquiries have surged by 34% year-over-year, already surpassing the total for all of 2025. This increase is encouraged by nonstop flights to Rome, making the transition easier for families with dogs and multiple pets.
Record High Inquiries
Starwood Pet Travel reports a historic level of requests to relocate pets from the U.S. to Italy. From January 1 to September 28, 2026, inquiries have exceeded those for the entirety of 2025. Notably, interest has intensified over the summer, with inquiries from July to late September rising 79% compared to the same time in 2025.
- Most Requested Destinations:
- Rome
- Milan
- Naples
Both Rome and Milan have already surpassed their full totals for 2025.
Importance of Nonstop Flights
Large pets often need to travel in cargo, and nonstop options are limited. Starwood Pet Travel uses ITA Airways’ nonstop services from several U.S. cities, facilitating smoother relocations by reducing the number of transitions pets experience during travel.
“Every connection is another loading… Being able to route a large dog or a whole household of pets nonstop… changes how families feel about the entire move.” – Adam Melton, VP of Strategic Initiatives at Starwood Pet Travel.
Surprising Regulations
Many pet owners mistakenly believe Italy has strict regulations. However, pets that comply with certain EU requirements can avoid quarantine upon arrival. The essential steps include:
- ISO-compliant microchip implanted before rabies vaccination.
- Rabies vaccination administered at least 21 days before travel.
- EU health certificate approved by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.
“The timeline to Italy is much shorter than people assume… one sequencing mistake can hold up the whole family.” – Adam Melton.
About Starwood Pet Travel
Starwood Pet Travel specializes in pet relocations, handling all aspects from veterinary paperwork to airline bookings. With over four decades of experience, they have conducted more than 12,000 safe pet relocations.
For more information, visit Starwood Pet Travel.
Contact Information
Georgiana Strait
Marketing Manager, Starwood Pet Travel
[Email](mailto:Georgiana Strait)
Phone: 573-337-8415
