Travelling abroad

Travelling abroad with your pet can be exciting, and in many instances of course, necessary.

But the fact is that there are lots of things to check off to make sure your pet is both safe and legally compliant before you start your journey.

It may seem like a daunting and confusing prospect to line up all of your documentation, but rest assured that we’re here to talk you through the process and to point you in the right direction – as well as providing any veterinary services that are required prior to departure.

Pet travel to the EU changed after Brexit

When Britain was a member of the EU, the pet passport system controlled how and when your pet could travel around European member states. Since Brexit, this has been replaced by a new set of requirements, including a document called an animal health certificate (AHC).

To receive an AHC your pet must be seen by a vet who is registered with the Animal and Plant Health Agency – a service we can provide at all of our branches – and:

The AHC is only valid for one journey, and must be used within 10 days of being issued.

Once you have entered the EU or Northern Ireland, it is valid for four months, or until your pet’s rabies vaccine expires. It can only be used for onward travel within the EU, or to return to the UK within four months.

If returning to the UK from the EU or Northern Ireland with a dog, they must receive tapeworm treatment within five days from a vet, and to have a certificate to show this.

If you have any questions please speak to your vet, and we will be happy to help you organise the correct paperwork.