Pet Travel Advice

The PET travel scheme allows pet owners in the UK to take their dogs, cats and ferrets to other European countries and then return with them without need for quarantine. We have Official Veterinarians (OVs) who are experienced at completing the Pet Passport paperwork. Please note that for many non-EU countries (e.g. South Africa, Australia, New-Zealand etc.) you cannot use a Pet Passport, and an Export Health certificate (EHC) is instead required.

For up-to-date information on your legal obligations when travelling abroad with your pet, we recommend that you contact Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for full details of current requirements.

Pet passports

Taking your pet to Europe can be very exciting, but it does require advance planning in order to ensure that all the required documentation and vaccinations are in place. Before travel your pet must:

  • Have a valid Pet Passport signed by an Official Veterinarian
  • Be microchipped
  • Have been vaccinated against rabies at least three weeks before travelling
  • Be protected against ticks for the whole time you are away. Ticks in Europe carry dangerous diseases that we don’t have in the UK. We recommend that you check your pet for ticks after walks and remove any you find with a tick remover.
  • Have tapeworm treatment administered by a vet 24 – 120 hours before your scheduled arrival back to the UK (dogs only)

Depending on where you are going, you may also need Sandfly protection against Leishmania and also Heartworm protection. These diseases are not present in the UK but are found in southern Europe, so please talk to us for specific advice that suits both your plans and your pet.

Please note that for many non-EU countries (e.g. South Africa, Australia, New-Zealand etc.) you cannot use a Pet Passport, and an Export Health certificate (EHC) is instead required.

For up-to-date information on your legal obligations when travelling abroad with your pet, we recommend that you contact Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for full details of current requirements.