Pet Travel abroad – 7 Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re considering a holiday abroad with your pet, or perhaps you’re moving across seas and are bringing your dog with you, you may have a list of questions about the rules and regulations for pet travel abroad. It can feel overwhelming not knowing where to begin. So we have compiled a list of all of the most frequently asked questions to put your mind at ease.
Can I travel to Europe from the UK with my pet?
Yes, taking your pet to Europe is no problem so long as you have the correct documents.
You’ll need a new animal health certificate (which you can get from your vet) for each journey you make to Europe or Northern Ireland. This is required whether your pet has travelled there before or not. This needs to be done no more than 10 days before you travel.
What are the requirements for taking my pet abroad?
Each country has different requirements for bringing pets to its borders. Some general requirements include having a valid rabies vaccination certificate, proof of microchipping, and/or a veterinary health certificate. If you are bringing pets to the UK for commercial reasons, or if you are travelling to the UK with a pet other than a dog, cat, or ferret, you will need an import permit. The regulations differ for other pet species, we will discuss this below.
Does my pet need a passport?
Yes, your pet will need a passport to travel abroad. The passport is a document that verifies that your pet has been vaccinated and has met the other requirements for pet travel abroad.
Generally, dogs, cats, and ferrets will require a microchip, rabies vaccination, parasite treatment (dogs only), and either a Pet Passport or an animal health certificate. However, if you are travelling from a country GB considers to be high-risk for rabies, your dog, cat, or ferret will also need a rabies titer test.
How do I get a pet passport in the UK?
To get a pet passport, you will need to take your pet to a veterinarian and have them vaccinated and microchipped. You will also need to have a valid rabies vaccination certificate. Once your pet has met all of the requirements, the veterinarian will give them a pet passport.
How long is a pet passport valid?
A pet passport is valid for life as long as your pet’s rabies vaccination is in date. So if you wish to travel frequently with your pet, it’s important to stay up to date on your pet’s vaccinations.
How has Brexit affected pet travel abroad?
Any pet passports issued in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales), including the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man, are now invalid for travel to an EU country or Northern Ireland.
You can still use your pet passport if you are travelling to another EU country and your passport was issued in:
- an EU country
- Andorra
- Faroe Islands
- Gibraltar
- Greenland
- Iceland
- Liechtenstein
- Monaco
- Northern Ireland
- Norway
- San Marino
- Switzerland
- Vatican City State
What about smaller or exotic pets?
Yes, some countries allow the importation of exotic pets, but there may be restrictions on what types of animals are permitted. Do thorough research before travelling.
Where will my pet be during transit?
For the duration of the drive, your pet is allowed to be next to you or in a crate. This means that you can easily check on your pet throughout the journey.
Can I arrange for a Pet Taxi?
Once you have all the correct documentation, if you would like to arrange to travel with your pet, contact our team today. Our Defra standard drivers can take you from the UK to Europe and vice versa. Get in touch today for your free quote.
