If you want to take your dog for a walk in the French Alps or let them bound through the Mediterranean surf, it’s time to get a pet passport.
The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) applies across many European countries, allowing dogs, cats and ferrets to travel across borders once measures have been taken to prevent them from spreading rabies and other diseases.
‘The rules are both stringent and time-consuming, involving various tests, vaccinations and documents on both your outgoing and return trips,’ explains Allison Crisp, one of our family experts. ‘And you’ll need to plan well in advance to meet all the guidelines.’
The pet passport must be prepared in the correct order, and all documentation accurately recorded, otherwise your pet could be detained in quarantine for six months.
We’ve asked Allison to summarise government advice on PETS and how to prepare your four-legged friend for a holiday. The government has also produced its top ten tips on pet passports. If you’re unsure of anything just call and we’ll talk you through the process.
What to do before you go:
All pet passports must follow the correct procedure. Your pet must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, undergo blood tests and have the documentation to prove this from an official veterinarian.
Microchip: Microchipping your pet allows it to be identified. You can then register it with reunification scheme Petlog, which will help track it down in case it gets lost.
Vaccination: You’ll have to vaccinate your pet against rabies – even if it has a current rabies vaccination – and ensure that its standard annual injections are up to date.
Blood test: Your pet’s blood must be tested to ensure the vaccine has worked. Check with your vet when this should be done.
Documentation: The UK issues EU pet passports through government-authorised Local Veterinary Inspectors (LVIs) – we can find your nearest one.
Where can I travel?
Your pet’s ready to travel to any country in the EU or any non-EU country that qualifies under the PETS. Entry requirements are broadly the same for PETS territories, but some destinations may impose extra conditions. ‘It’s always a good idea to double check with the country’s Embassy before you go,’ advises Allison.
Most PETS countries have introduced a wait of 21 days from the first rabies vaccination before pets are able to enter, but this buffer period may be longer depending on the type of vaccine your vet used. Your vet will advise on this.
Once you’re out of the UK, your pet must stay out of any non-qualifying country in the six months before it returns to the UK.
Finally, don’t forget that standard pet insurance is unlikely to cover international travel. Check whether you need to arrange extra cover.
What you must do on return:
Tick treatment: A vet must treat your pet against ticks and tapeworms not less than 24 hours and not more than 48 hours before you travel back.
Approved travel company: Whether you’re travelling by sea, air or train, your pet must make its return to the UK with an approved transport company on an approved route. Pets arriving on private planes and boats will be taken into quarantine.
On the road
Keep your pet comfortable during car journeys by giving them plenty of space and making sure the car is well ventilated. You can also use blinds to block out the sun if you’re going somewhere hot.
Take your pet’s bedding, toys, food and water for the journey and stop frequently for toilet breaks and exercise. Never leave your pet in the car unattended.
How we can help
- We’ll find UK vets to complete the passport process and vets abroad who will administer tick treatments before your return
- Ask us for details of approved travel companies that will bring your pet back into the UK
- We can suggest dog-friendly restaurants, bars and beaches
- Let us book a dog grooming parlour so your pooch can be pampered while you’re in the spa
