Introduction
So, you’re all set to jet off on a European adventure, and there’s no way you’re leaving your furry friend behind! Travelling with a pet from the UK to Europe post-Brexit comes with its own set of rules and regulations. Fear not, we’ve got you covered—from what used to be known as a pet passport to the health certificate you now need, vaccines, and even the crucial steps for returning to the UK.
This blog covers:
- What happened to the pet passport?
- Animal health certificates
- Does my dog need a rabies vaccination to travel to Europe?
- Does my dog need to be wormed to enter to the UK from Europe?
- What vaccinations are needed for my dog to travel to Europe?
The Good Old Pet Passport and the New Health Certificate
The Pet Passport: A Brief History
Ah, the Pet Passport! It was a small blue booklet that acted as a one-stop-shop for all your pet’s vaccination records, microchip information, and even had a cute little space for a photo. Until Brexit happened, this was all British pets needed to trot around Europe freely.
The New Health Certificate
Fast forward to now, and the Pet Passport for British pets is no longer valid for travel within the EU. Instead, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC).
What is an Animal Health Certificate?
An Animal Health Certificate is a document issued by a veterinarian certifying that your pet is fit to travel. It includes details about your pet’s vaccinations and must be issued within 10 days before your departure to an EU country.
Vaccines and Rabies Shots: The Essentials
Rabies Vaccination
This is a non-negotiable. Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before you travel but not older than three years. Make sure you plan this well in advance.
Other Vaccines
While rabies is the primary concern, it’s also a good idea to check if the country you’re visiting requires additional vaccinations like distemper, leptospirosis, or kennel cough.
Returning to the UK: Don’t Forget Deworming!
When it’s time to return to the UK, there’s one more thing you need to tick off your checklist—deworming. Your pet will need a tapeworm treatment administered by a vet, which should be done 24 to 120 hours before you enter the UK.
Can I deworm just before I get on the ferry?
According to the UK government’s pet travel rules, the tapeworm treatment must be administered by a vet no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (1 to 5 days) before you enter the UK. So, technically, you cannot do the deworming treatment on the same day you travel back to the UK. It must be done at least one day prior to your arrival.
Timetable: When to Do What
Final words
While travelling with your pet from the UK to Europe has become a bit more complicated, with some planning and attention to detail, it’s entirely doable. Always remember to consult your vet well in advance to make sure you’re meeting all health requirements. Happy travels!
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. While we strive to keep the information up to date and accurate, we cannot guarantee its completeness or timeliness due to potential changes in regulations. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian and check the latest government guidance before travelling. EuropeWithDogs.com cannot be held responsible for any loss, damage, or inconvenience caused as a result of reliance on any information in this post.