Expat Pet Guide: Moving with Pets to Ghent

Pets Overview

Ghent scores 4.0/5 for family-friendliness and 4.0/5 for security, important factors for pet owners relocating abroad. Plan for approximately 17 pet-related costs including veterinary care and import fees.

Ghent follows Belgian pet ownership regulations with some city-specific rules. Pet owners must ensure proper identification and registration of their animals. The city emphasizes responsible pet ownership with particular attention to waste management and public behavior.

Quick Stats

Family Score

4.0 /5

Security Score

4.0 /5

Weather Score

3.0 /5

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$2,220

Monthly Costs

$163/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

Pet Import Permit $0

Health Certificate $85

Customs Clearance $0

Monthly

Pet Food Monthly $55/mo

Pet Insurance Monthly $28/mo

Vet Checkups Monthly $42/mo

Showing 6 of 17 costs — sign up to see all

Key Pets Details

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Pet Import Requirements

Belgium has standardized EU pet import regulations with specific requirements for identification, vaccination, and documentation.

Housing Considerations

Finding pet-friendly housing in Ghent requires advance planning as policies vary widely among landlords and property types.

Public Spaces & Recreation

Ghent offers numerous green spaces for pets, though regulations vary by location and season.

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Practical Tips

they maintain English records and have emergency service

Use the off-leash area in Blaarmeersen during early mornings

less crowded and more tolerant of unleashed dogs

Join 'Ghent Dog Walkers' Facebook group

members share pet-sitter recommendations and organize meetups

Get pet supplies from Tom&Co in Oostakker

larger selection and better prices than city center stores

Useful Links

Federal Agency for Food Chain Safety - Pet Import

Official Belgian authority overseeing pet import regulations, microchipping requirements, and veterinary health certificates for bringing pets to Belgium.

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City of Ghent - Animals

Municipal information on pet registration, animal welfare regulations, and pet-related services available in Ghent.

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Ghent University Veterinary Hospital

Academic veterinary clinic providing comprehensive medical services for pets with specialized departments and emergency care.

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Animal Shelter Ghent

Ghent's official animal shelter providing adoption services, lost pet recovery, and temporary accommodation for pets during transition periods.

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Belgian Veterinary Association

Professional organization with a searchable database of certified veterinarians in Ghent and information on veterinary standards in Belgium.

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Explore Other Guides

Immigration Guide Housing Guide Education Guide Healthcare Guide Finance Guide Transport Guide

Pets Guides in Belgium

Antwerp

Bruges

Brussels

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Frequently Asked Questions

Bringing a pet to Ghent requires specific documentation including vaccination records, microchip, and health certificates. Requirements vary by pet type and origin country. Use ReloPlanner for a personalized pet import checklist.

Ghent offers various pet-friendly amenities including parks, veterinary clinics, and pet-friendly housing options. Use ReloPlanner to find pet-friendly neighborhoods and compare costs.

There are approximately 17 pets-related costs to consider when moving to Ghent, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

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Data verified: March 2026

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