Is this the right pet for your child? It was for us!

Geneva, Switzerland – Is your child set on getting a pet for Christmas? Some children might want an elephant, others a kitty, but which one is right for your child? Although as parents we might know which is the best option we could also leave it to them to find out if the animal of their dreams is the right kind of pet. That’s easy, all you need is the internet and a little bit of time.

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Geneva, Switzerland - Changes in the laws surrounding dogs in the City of Geneva are finally going into effect.

Dog owners who registered in the Canton after 2008 will have to take classes to manage their pups.

Owners of so-called “dangerous dogs” may not take them in public without a muzzle. The list of requirements differ between cities in the Canton so if you live outside City limits ask your township directly.

In addition, several parks of Canton Geneva have been closed to big and small dogs so double check before going into one of these public spaces.

Additional resources for dog owners in Geneva: Where to let your dog off the leash and Get your dog tax.

Thousands of school children in the City of Geneva are ready to begin their summer vacation and many families are packing their belongings for car excursions throughout Europe.

Are you one of those ready to leave town but forgot about your pooch? Sure your four-legged friend has by now a “Swiss dog passport” but what else do you need before you head out on holidays outside Switzerland?

Find out what you need to know to cross the border with your dog or cat in the website of the Federal Veterinary Office. An interactive tool lets you select a country and find all necessary requirements for a smooth trip.

Bon voyage!

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Dogs, be free! These beautiful (dog) days are a great excuse to take your four legged friend for a walk off leash. But where to go? Easy!

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April 1. This is no April fool’s joke. It is time to pay your dog tax to the Canton of Geneva.

Your furry friend will cost you CHF107 payable to the city of Geneva – more or less- in the communes of Canton Geneva.

Before heading out the door to pay your tax, make sure to have the following with you:

• A picture ID -for you, not the dog-.
• A certificate of pet responsibility insurance which can be bought from your insurance agent.
• A current vaccination record, and
• The Anis registration card (which certifies your pet has a microchip ID).

Rocky being cool and legit

Canton Geneva has specific laws for dogs considered as dangerous. They must be registered with local authorities, pass a behavior training course, and must wear a muzzle in public.

Dogs, considered dangerous or not, are not allowed to enter certain public areas in the Canton and the City.

If you are still unsure how to bring or move to Switzerland with your four legged, chirpy, or purry friend check the regulations of the Federal Veterinary Office, online.