Traveling in Zurichh with Rott

[blackandtan]

I am picking up a Pet Therapy dog in Munich and taking a train to Zurich (I am flying Swissair and want a direct flight to LAX). I got a room at the Hilton Zurich as the train doesnt get there ealry enough for my morning flight. They take dogs. But they e-mailed me and said "its a normal dog...not like a boxer" My dog is BIGGER than a boxer. He is a 95 pound Rottweiler. I plan on not responding and just showing up. Hoping that once they see the dog and that it will be confined and well behaved, they will let me have my room. The dog will not be running loose as it will be in a Air Kennel (Dog Crate) when in the room.

Aside from that, this dog is a Schutzund III dog. PLus its a pet therapy dog. This dog is more well behaved than 99% of the yappy, purse dogs in the world that people bring and more than most children! Anyone think I will have a problem? He is also house trained and very social and friendly.


Zurich looks beautiful. Is there anything to do around the Hilton (by the airport). Anything to see? Anywhere good to eat?

I kind of want to spend an extra day in Zurich, but I have the dog and I dont want to offend people by having the dog with me everywhere I go in Zurich.
Is it possible to "see" Zurich with a dog and not offend people? Or is it too much of a hassle to do things with your dog in Zurich. I dont want to confine the dog for 2 days. I was only planning on confining the dog when we are sleeping.

This dog also is trainining to do rescue work and has a rescue vest and Pet Therapy one as well and also has its own Identification card. He can wear the vest when he is out. And I can produce identification at any time (they dog has its own credientials and ID)

[Karyn]

You should not have a problem with all his credentials which you will most likely have to produce at the hotel to assure them that he is not just some ordinary run of the mill rottie.

[Mavides]

When I traveled through Frankfurt with my Rottie, I learned that all places were very dog friendly - however I noticed I got some strange looks throughout the airport with my dog. I learned later that they ask all dog owners to carry a muzzle with them - it is then required that if ANYONE is uncomfortable with your dog around, you must muzzle them. I think that's a fair trade off in exchange for being allowed to take your dog in department and grocery stores with you!! I'm assuming it's the same throughout Europe, but I'm not sure. Best of luck and have fun!!!

[Soulworx]

I dont think you'll have a problem... but that could all depend on the manager on duty and his (personal) views on dogs.... But bring your certificates, and make sure ur dog is on his best behaviour!

Switzerland is right at the heart of Europe... i've never been there personally but ive been to some surrounding countries(France & Italy) and their views on dogs was very laid back.... i.e. in pubs, and around town. However the other boardering countries i.e Germany and Austria may have a completely different views. Suppose it depends on what area of Switzerland your planning to visit.

I know that you need to get a pet passport to get your dog into the UK, but seeing as Switzerland is mainland europe i dont think u have to worry about that but maybe u should check it out?

[Soulworx]

Sorry ive just read Mavides' comment... looks like Germany's ok too!!

[danyp1]

Travel by tain or bus and you have to muzzle your dog. If it is a crate you should not have a problem. I would check with any city you are traveling to if there is a muzzle law. So having one with you all the times might be a good choice so if they say something you can just put it on.

[danyp1]

Dogs do go anywhere unless there is a sign what says no dogs. If you go into the country be aware not to let him run loose in the forest. The local rancher will shoot them if not on a leash.

[rms78645]

my parents lived in Berlin and dogs were allowed in the restaurants. I would bet Zurich would be the same.

[damp]

The laws/rules differ very much from country to country in Europe and definitely also what is meet and proper regarding dogs.

Why don’t you call or mail the kennel club in Switzerland and ask what is good dog custom there!

Brutus posted a link in International Rottweiler Forum some days ago with good links to dog clubs and information about dogs from all over the world.

[danyp1]

not only country to country but city to city...

[Soulworx]

Originally Posted by damp

The laws/rules differ very much from country to country in Europe and definitely also what is meet and proper regarding dogs.

Why don’t you call or mail the kennel club in Switzerland and ask what is good dog custom there!

Brutus posted a link in International Rottweiler Forum some days ago with good links to dog clubs and information about dogs from all over the world.

Thats a great idea i would never have thought of that!

[poohbearsmom]

Damp is absolutely correct... and it's never a good idea to assume what's allowable, or legal in one country/city/county is legal in another. While ignorance is bliss in some circumstances, it's not when travelling with a Rottweiler.

It's always best to check the local ordinances, so one can be prepared, educated, and at ease that there will be no "trip interruptions".

That FCI link that Brutus posted is a terrific starting place to find national/local clubs, and is a great starting place to research local laws.

Good luck! Let us know what you find!