Europe Travel Guide

*Disclaimer: this is a guide only and it is your responsibility to ensure you up to date with guidelines*

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Taking your dog or cat to Europe from the UK requires careful planning to meet both UK and EU pet travel requirements. This guide outlines the steps, documents, and preparations needed for a smooth journey.

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1. Check Pet Travel Requirements

After Brexit, the UK became a "Part 2 listed country" under the EU Pet Travel Scheme. This means there are specific requirements for pet travel:

• Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped before receiving any rabies vaccinations. Ensure the microchip complies with ISO standards 11784 or 11785.

• Rabies Vaccination: Pets must be vaccinated against rabies. If it’s their first rabies vaccination, you must wait 21 days before travel.

• Animal Health Certificate (AHC): Pets traveling from the UK to the EU must have an AHC issued by a UK vet. This certificate is valid for:

  • 10 days for entry into the EU.

  • 4 months for onward travel within the EU.

  • 4 months for re-entry into the UK.

• Tapeworm Treatment (for dogs only): If traveling to certain countries like Finland, Ireland, Malta, or Norway, dogs must be treated for tapeworm between 24–120 hours before entering.

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2. Preparing the Documents

• AHC Details: The AHC must include:

  • Pet's details (name, breed, age, etc.).

  • Microchip number and implant date.

  • Rabies vaccination details (date, batch number, and vet information).

• Proof of Rabies Vaccination: Ensure you have an up-to-date vaccination card or record.

• Other Vaccinations: While not mandatory, vaccinations for diseases like leptospirosis and feline leukaemia are recommended.

• Passport (Optional): While the UK-issued pet passports are no longer valid for travel to the EU, EU pet passports can still be used if issued in the EU or Northern Ireland.

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3. Travel Arrangements

• Transport Options:

  • Car: Use the Eurotunnel or ferries that allow pet travel.

  • Plane: Check with airlines for pet travel policies and crate requirements.

  • Train: Eurostar does not permit pets, except guide dogs.

• Pet-Friendly Carriers: For plane travel, ensure you have an International Air Transport Association (IATA)-approved pet carrier.

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4. Preparing Your Pet for Travel

• Health Check: Take your pet to the vet for a check-up before the trip.

• Travel Crate: Acclimate your pet to their travel crate well in advance.

• Comfort: Pack essentials like water, food, bedding, toys, and waste bags.

• Exercise and Hydration: Ensure your pet has enough exercise and hydration before the journey.

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5. Arrival in the EU

• Entry Points: Pets can only enter the EU through designated Travellers’ Points of Entry (TPEs). Examples include major airports and ferry terminals.

• Document Checks: Present your pet’s AHC, vaccination records, and microchip details at the border.

• Compliance: Ensure your pet complies with all EU entry rules to avoid delays or quarantine.

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6. Returning to the UK

To return to the UK, your pet must meet the following:

• Microchip and Rabies Vaccine: Same as for EU travel.

• Tapeworm Treatment: Administered by a vet 24–120 hours before re-entry (dogs only).

• Documents: Present the same AHC used for EU travel or a valid UK pet passport if issued in Northern Ireland.

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7. Additional Tips

• Plan Ahead: Some documents, like the AHC, must be issued within 10 days of travel.

• Research Local Laws: Check EU country-specific pet import rules.

• Emergency Contact: Keep details of local vets in your destination country.

• Pet Insurance: Ensure your pet insurance covers international travel.

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