Can you drive to Georgia with a dog through Upper Lars?
Documents, border checks and tips for the road.
Short answer
Yes, you can drive into Georgia with a dog or cat through Upper Lars with the same documents as for flying: microchip, rabies jab at least 21 days earlier, pet passport and veterinary certificate. Russian veterinary control checks documents on their side and the National Food Agency on the Georgian side. Border queues can take several hours, so bring water and a bowl.
Why
- A Russian Form No 1 veterinary certificate is valid for a limited time and is usually issued 5 days before departure.
- In summer the car heats up quickly in the queue, so never leave a pet alone inside.
- The road over the Jvari Pass is mountainous, and some animals get carsick.
Details
Before the trip, ask your vet about motion sickness remedies and avoid a heavy meal before the pass. Keep your pet's documents together with the car documents for inspections.
People also ask
- Can I drive into Georgia with my dog?
Sources
Pet rules were checked on October 3, 2026. Confirm requirements with the veterinary service and carrier before travelling.
Rules for bringing pets to GeorgiaRelated questions
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Who was Kupata, the dog from Batumi?
Kupata was a street dog from Batumi who became famous in 2020 when a video of him barking to stop cars and helping kindergarten children cross the road went viral worldwide.
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Which animal is considered a symbol of Georgia?
Georgian law names no official national animal, but the wolf is most often called the country's symbol, linked to King Vakhtang Gorgasali, known as the 'wolf-headed'.
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What Georgian dog breeds are there?
The main Georgian breed is the Georgian Shepherd, or Nagazi, a large livestock guardian that for centuries protected flocks from wolves in the Caucasus mountains.
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Where can you buy a dog or adopt an animal in Georgia?
In Georgia you can buy a pedigree dog or cat from breeders and kennels, or adopt one free from shelters and volunteers who rehome stray dogs and cats.