Pet Travel to the EU - Key Information
For the most comprehensive and up-to-date advice, please reference:
https://www.gov.uk/taking-your-pet-abroad/travelling-to-an-eu-country-or-northern-ireland
Since January 2021, pets traveling to the European Union require an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). If your pet does not qualify for an AHC, there might be alternative options available. It is advisable to consult us to determine the most suitable documentation for your journey.
Pet Owner Responsibilities
Pet owners themselves are responsible for ensuring compliance with travel requirements. It is crucial to check the regulations for pet travel to the EU and the UK, as these can change at any time. You can find the latest information at https://www.gov.uk/taking-your-pet-abroad/travelling-to-an-eu-country-or-northern-ireland
For any queries, reach out to us well before your trip so that we can provide any necessary guidance and advice.
*Key Facts on AHC's*
- Single-Use Document: An AHC is valid for one return trip only. A new certificate is needed for each trip to the EU.
- Eligible Pets: Dogs, cats, and ferrets can travel with an AHC. Consult your vet if your pet is a breed derived from a wild species, as some like Savannah cats are not eligible.
- Validity: The AHC is valid for EU entry for up to 10 days from the issue date (Day 1).
- Languages: The document is issued in English and the official language of the EU entry port.
- Pet Limit: A maximum of five pets per AHC is allowed unless traveling to an event like a competition.
- Identification: Pets must have a microchip.
- Rabies Vaccination & Microchip Verification: A valid rabies vaccine is mandatory on the AHC issue date. The vaccine is effective 21 days post-administration if it's a first dose or a booster given after 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, then we will require a Rabies Vaccination Certificate and confirmation in writing that your pet's microchip was scanned at the time of vaccination. If this is not visible on the Rabies Vaccination Certificate, then clinical notes may be required. Without this, an AHC cannot be issued.
- Age Restrictions: 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.
Specific Country Requirements
- Tapeworm Treatment: 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.
Travel Conditions
- Non-Commercial Travel: Pets must travel for non-commercial purposes without ownership changes. Commercial movements require an Export Health Certificate (EHC).
- Travel Companions: Pets may accompany their owner, someone authorized in writing, or a commercial carrier. If using a commercial carrier, the owner or authorized person must reunite with the pet within five days.
- Appointment Attendance: 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.
- Documentation Consistency: Ensure the owner’s details on all documents match. If another person attends the appointment, they must have authorization from the owner to sign on their behalf. A downloadable authorization letter is available for such scenarios.
By following these guidelines, pet owners can ensure a smooth and compliant journey to the EU with their beloved animals.
