Pet Owner's Guide to

Living in Italy 2025

For more detailed information on how to bring your beloved pets to Italy, please refer to our comprehensive France Pet Travel Guide. 

Italy Pet Travel Guide

Life in Italy with Pets

Italy's rich history, delectable cuisine, and picturesque landscapes make it a dream destination—not just for humans, but for pets too. With a culture that embraces animals, you'll find that integrating your furry friend into Italian life is both enjoyable and rewarding.

Choosing a Veterinarian in Italy

🩺 Choosing a Veterinarian in Italy

Ensuring your pet's health is paramount. Italy boasts a high standard of veterinary care, with over 4,500 clinics and hospitals spread across the country . Here are some resources to help you find the right vet:

Tips:

  • Many Italian vets speak English, especially in urban areas.
  • It's advisable to schedule an initial check-up soon after arrival to establish care and discuss any region-specific health concerns, such as leishmaniasis in southern Italy .Starwood Pet

Pet-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants

Italy's café culture is inherently pet-friendly. Dogs are commonly seen accompanying their owners at various establishments. Here are some notable spots:

Rome

  • Da Remo: A traditional Roman pizzeria where dogs are welcome. BringFido
  • Gelateria del Teatro: Offers artisanal gelato and welcomes canine companions.

Florence

  • Trattoria Dall'Oste: Famous for its Florentine steaks, this restaurant is dog-friendly. BringFido
  • Buca Lapi: One of the oldest restaurants in Florence, known for its hospitality towards dogs. BringFido

Siena

  • Zest Wine Bar & Cafe: A casual spot in the historical center, owned by dog lovers. BringFido

Note: While many establishments are pet-friendly, it's courteous to ask staff upon entry, especially in smaller towns. 

Dog Parks and Green Spaces

Italy offers numerous parks and green spaces where dogs can play and socialize:

Rome

  • Villa Doria Pamphili: Rome's largest public park, featuring dedicated dog areas with agility equipment. italiannotebook.com
  • Parco delle Valli: A beautiful park with off-leash areas, located next to the Conca d'Oro metro stop. BringFido

Milan

  • Dog Area Largo Marinai D'Italia: A centrally located dog park that's popular among locals.
  • Parco delle Cave: Offers open spaces where dogs under voice command can run freely. BringFido

Florence

  • Parco di Villa Strozzi: Features a fenced dog park with amenities like benches and shade trees. BringFido

Tip: Always carry waste bags and ensure your dog is leashed when entering and exiting off-leash areas.BringFido

Pet Supply Stores

For all your pet's needs, Italy has a variety of pet supply stores:

  • Arcaplanet: A leading pet store chain offering a wide range of products.
  • Maxi Zoo: Provides pet food, accessories, and healthcare products.
  • Local Pet Boutiques: Found in most towns, these stores often carry unique and locally made pet items.

Helpful Resources

  • BringFido: An app and website to find pet-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and attractions in Italy. BringFido
  • Dogalize: A social network dedicated to pet owners, offering a map service to locate pet-friendly places. WikipediaWikipedia
  • ANMVI Directory: Provides a list of veterinary clinics across Italy. anmvi.it

Embracing life in Italy with your pet can be a rewarding experience filled with new adventures and friendships. With this guide, you're well-equipped to navigate your new environment and ensure your furry friend feels right at home.

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