Somewhat unusual request, but dog owners will understand. We have lived in France for 33 years, and in that time three of our dogs have died after long and happy lives. Until now, their ashes have been held by us, but now that my wife and I are over 80 and all sorts of end-of-life dispositions are being discussed, the younger generation of our family in the UK would like to take over the keeping of the ashes.
My early researches suggest that transport of packages of ashes is very regulated, whether by courier, or post, or in airline baggage. In particular, solid documentation would be required, especially vet and crematorium certificates. For the earlier deaths, more than 20 years ago, I doubt that I can find much paperwork.
So … has anyone out there been down this road and can share their experience? All advice, pointers, suggestions gratefully received.
Like many things in France there is a fuzzy gap between what is stated and what happens in reality.
How do you propose transporting the urn? I think that will make the difference in how you proceed.
I bought my mother’s ashes to France on the Eurostar without a problem, and I know of several people who have taken ashes in private cars without being questioned.
For animal ashes I would have thought an attestation sur l’honneur may be sufficient.
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It might just be easier if younger family drove across and the ashes returned with them. Animal ashes aren’t usually listed among the things to be declared when traveling by boat or tunnel.
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Totally agree… by personal car is much straightforward. Just a calm, no stress crossing. No need to declare anything. Use the basic “person/people in a car” channel.
The urns should simply be well-packed into the vehicle, like any other precious belongings.
But I would suggest that any modern documentation which IS available (from vet and/or crematorium) is kept to hand for showing to the Duanes/whomever if (by any chance) someone does question “what’s in that”.
Fingers crossed all will be well.
From what I’ve read, things are more strict if flying… thus one’s own car is the best/easiest bet.
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Thanks for taking the time to help. It does look like personal transport tunnel/ferry is the easiest solution. Especially when the articles, which are clearly labelled, are manifestly harmless if an inspection takes place.
My only concern when I brought my mother over was that one time I had a small bag of gravel in my bag and the customs at Eurostar insisted I spread it onto a tray to check it with n explosives wand. (The gravel was for window box in Paris flat, didn’t want to have to buy huge sack).