Pet Passport / Travel Scheme

We have a number of vets who are qualified to issue Pet Passports (those appointed by DEFRA as Local Veterinary Inspectors).

Pet Travel from the UK and into EU/listed countries

In order to take your cat/dog/ferret out of the UK and into an EU/listed country your pet must:

be microchipped
be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entry into the EU/listed country (either a booster - provided it is given on time, or a full vaccine if required)
have an EU pet passport

If you are considering taking your pet from the UK to other countries, such as Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain to name a few, you will need to contact DEFRA and they will inform you of the veterinary requirements and documentation needed to enter that country. It is also advisable to get in touch with the embassy or consulate for the relevant country in case the regulations have recently changed. It is recommended that you research the requirements for your pet to enter a foreign country well in advance of travelling to prevent delays and complications occurring.

Pet Travel Rules from 1 January 2012.

Pet travel into the UK from EU/listed countries

In order to take your cat/dog/ferret out of an EU/listed country and into the UK your pet must:

be microchipped
be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entry into the UK (either a booster - provided it is given on time, or a full vaccine if required)
have an EU Pet Passport
Dogs only must be treated for tapeworms by a vet not less that 24 hours and not more than 120 hours (between 1 and 5 days) before its scheduled arrival time in the UK. There is no mandatory requirement for tick treatment but this is still strongly recommended
arrange for your animal to travel with an approved transport company or on an authorised route

If your pet is entering the UK from certain unlisted third countries, in addition to the above, a rabies blood test may be required and other rules may apply. Please check information on http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/pets/travel/pets/