Pet Travel to the EU
Following an announcement from the government, Knutsford Veterinary Surgery have now been informed by the government (Animal and Plant Health Agency) on how pet travel to the EU is going to change from 1st January 2021.
The UK will now become a ‘third country’ with respect to the EU, but will be given ‘Part 2’ listed status. Therefore, EU pet passports issued in the UK will no longer be valid and a different protocol will be adhered to.
What you will need to do before travelling to the EU
Before you travel with your pet there is a list of things you need to do for your pet to travel safely.
Vaccinations
You must make sure your pet has been vaccinated against rabies. It is important to note that any pet will need to be 12 weeks of age or older to have the vaccination. After the vaccination is administered, you will need to wait at least 21 days before your pet can enter the EU.
Microchipped
Ensure your pet is microchipped and your current microchip is working before you travel. Please note that the rabies vaccination will only be counted if it is given after the pet is microchipped.
Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
Your pet must also have an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV). At Knutsford Surgery, we have two qualified OV’s that would be able to perform this service. The owner must complete section A to declare that the movement of the pet is not for commercial reasons. The Animal Health Certificates are valid for:
- 10 days after the date of issue to enter into the EU.
- A single entry into the EU.
- Onward travel within the EU for 4 months after the issue.
- Re-entry into the UK 4 months after the issue.
Tapeworm treatment
If your pet is travelling to Malta, Ireland or Finland, they must be treated for tapeworm prior to travel.
The owner must organise tapeworm treatment upon re-entry to the UK from the EU. The pet must be treated no less than 24 hours and no greater than 120 hours prior to re-entry (exempt if already conducted prior to travel as above).
What should I do next?
Please ensure you leave plenty of time prior to travel to organise appointments required to issue the AHC. Please note that fees are chargeable for the above services.
Book an appointment with Knutsford Veterinary Surgery to ensure your pet travels safely to the EU in 2021
