Weather and seasons in Rome
Rome has hot, dry summers โ often above 32ยฐC in July and August โ and mild, rainy winters. Cobblestones (sampietrini) and pavements soak up heat and stay warm into the evening.
Planning around the seasons
In summer, walk at dawn or after dark, use the shady villa parks and avoid sun-baked cobbles and open fields.
In autumn and winter, rain makes cobbles slippery โ shorter, steadier walks suit older dogs.
Getting around Rome with a pet
ATAC buses and the metro admit dogs under specific conditions (lead, muzzle, ticket and time limits), and small pets travel in carriers โ check ATACโs current rules. A pet taxi is the simplest way to reach the vet, a groomer or Fiumicino.
Homes, buildings and access
Many Romans live in condominium buildings (condomini) with a porter (portiere) and shared courtyards; building rules may cover pets in common areas. Tell your provider about door codes, the portiere and lifts.
Local rules worth knowing
In Italy dogs must be microchipped and registered in the regional dog registry (anagrafe canina). In towns, dogs must be kept on a lead no longer than 1.5 metres in public places, owners must carry a muzzle, and droppings must be picked up.
Pet care in Rome โ FAQ
Does OnlyPaw work in Rome?
Yes. OnlyPaw is available worldwide, including Rome. Because it's a marketplace, the providers you can book depend on who has been approved near your address โ the app shows who's available before you pay.
How much does pet care cost in Rome?
Providers in Rome set their own prices, so you see each provider's rate in the app before you book. At checkout OnlyPaw adds a service fee of 10% of the service price, with a minimum of USD 2 and a maximum of USD 20 (or the equivalent in your local currency), shown before you pay. Your payment is held and only released to the provider after the service is completed.
Does my dog need a muzzle in Rome?
Italian rules require owners to carry a muzzle and use it if needed or requested, for example on public transport, and to keep dogs on a lead of up to 1.5 metres in public places in towns.
Where can I walk my dog in Rome in summer?
Early in the morning or after dark, in shady villa parks such as Villa Ada and Villa Doria Pamphilj. Avoid open fields and hot cobbles in the middle of the day.
How are providers vetted?
Every provider submits a government ID and a selfie, passes a knowledge test with a 70% pass mark and uploads service-specific documents โ home photos for sitting and boarding, driving licence and vehicle registration for pet taxi, certificates for grooming and training โ before the OnlyPaw team approves them.
What happens in an emergency?
Every active booking has an SOS button in the app. It alerts the other party and the OnlyPaw team straight away. If your pet needs urgent medical care, contact a vet or emergency clinic first.
