Pets must have a microchip.

A valid rabies vaccine is mandatory. The vaccine is effective 21 days post-administration if it's a first dose or a booster given before the previous vaccine expired. Boosters within the validity period are effective immediately.

If Pear Tree Vets administered your pet's rabies vaccination, then we do not require any additional documentation from you. If your rabies vaccination was administered elsewhere, we will require a Rabies Vaccination Certificate and confirmation in writing that your pet's microchip was scanned at the time of vaccination.

Rabies vaccines are administered no earlier than 12 weeks, making most pets travel-ready at 15 weeks. Some EU countries allow younger unvaccinated pets; consult your vet if applicable.

Dogs traveling to Ireland, Northern Ireland, Malta, Finland, or Norway require tapeworm treatment 24-120 hours before entry. The same applies before re-entering the UK, with relevant AHC sections completed by a vet. This is unnecessary for direct travel from these countries to the UK.

Pets must travel for non-commercial purposes without ownership changes. Commercial movements require an Export Health Certificate (EHC).

Pets may accompany their owner, someone authorized in writing, or a commercial carrier. If using a commercial carrier, the owner or authorised person must reunite with the pet within five days.

The person traveling with the pet must attend the AHC appointment to sign the declaration. If a commerical carrier is used, the owner should still be present to sign.

Ensure the owner’s details on all documents match. If another person attends the appointment, they must have authorisation from the owner to sign on their behalf. A downloadable authorisation letter is available for such scenarios.