Travelling abroad with your pet
In order for you to be able to travel with pet dogs, cats or ferrets outside of mainland Great Britain you will need some travel documentation. Travel to Northern Ireland or the EU requires an Animal Health Certificate (called an AHC). Travel to other countries will require an export certificate which is a more complex process.
Up to date information can be found on the government website APHA.
Your pet will need to have a microchip and be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel.
It is currently possible to travel with an existing EU pet passport as long as the rabies vaccine is still up to date. Please note that UK vets cannot add a rabies vaccine entry into an EU passport.
A rabies vaccination cannot be given at the same time as your pets primary course or annual booster vaccination.
Please contact our team directly with any pet travel questions.
Animal Health Certificate
This is the EU document that allows you to enter the EU. Only Official Veterinarians are authorised to complete export documents. Several of our vets have completed the required training to become Official Veterinarians, which allows us to help you with travelling with your pet.
The AHC can ONLY be used for travelling with Dog, Cat or Ferret pets. The document cannot be used for commercial travel (for selling or transfer of ownership) or for other animals. A maximum of six pets can travel on an AHC.
The AHC is only valid for a single use to travel into the EU and return to the UK.
Once you contact the practice to request an AHC, we will send you a form to fill out and return to the practice by email. This will provide the vet with all of the information necessary to start work on the AHC. We will complete as much of the AHC as possible before you arrive for your appointment as it can take 30-60 mins depending on the complexity of arrangements. You will come in for a 20 minute appointment where we will double check the microchip(s) of the travelling pets and finalise the AHC. We must make a copy of the form for our records, and you are given the original AHC to allow you to travel.
We charge a professional fee for completing the AHC to cover the time taken and the training required. The fee is payable when you book the AHC rather than when you collect the AHC, as we will start work on the document before your appointment.
Export Health Certificate
The EHC is required for commercial travel to the EU or for travel to countries outside the EU. The specific requirements are dependent on the government of the country you are visiting. You need to apply for the EHC yourself and nominate an OV to complete the document within the time frame. Sometimes the EHC needs to be completed within just a couple of days of travel and the exact date of travel, flight number etc is necessary to complete the document.
Many pet owners employ a pet travel company to help them with the export and travel arrangements. Whilst it is possible to do a lot of this yourself, the individual requirements for each country can be complex. Our experience is that many pet owners value the efficiency and peace of mind of using a company to help manage the travel requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents and preparations are required to travel abroad with my pet?
- Health Certificates: Most countries require a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian, confirming that your pet is in good health and up to date on vaccinations. Some countries may have specific forms or requirements for this certificate.
- Microchipping: Many countries mandate microchipping for pets, so ensure your pet has a compatible microchip with up to date contact information.
- Vaccinations: Verify the required vaccinations for your destination country and ensure your pet is vaccinated accordingly. Common vaccinations include rabies, distemper, and kennel cough.
- Parasite Treatments: Some countries may require proof of recent parasite treatments, such as for ticks and tapeworms.
- Import Permits: Certain countries may require import permits or other documentation. Research the specific requirements well in advance of your trip.
How can I keep my pet safe and comfortable while travelling?
- Travel Carrier: Invest in a sturdy, well-ventilated travel carrier that's appropriately sized for your pet. Allow your pet to become accustomed to the carrier before the trip.
- Comfort Items: Bring familiar items like blankets or toys to help your pet feel more at ease during the journey.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure your pet has access to water and food as needed, especially during long journeys. Consider freezing water in a bowl attached to the carrier to prevent spills.
- Regular Breaks: Plan for regular breaks during road trips to allow your pet to stretch, relieve themselves, and get some fresh air.
- Temperature Control: Avoid exposing your pet to extreme temperatures. Ensure proper ventilation and temperature regulation in transport vehicles.
What should I do to prepare my pet for international travel?
- Visit your Vet: schedule a pre-travel check-up with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy and meets all travel requirements.
- Behaviour Training: Train your pet to become comfortable with their carrier and the travel experience. Practice short trips to acclimate them to the process.
- Identification: Ensure your pet's identification tags and microchip register are up to date with your current contact information
- Research Quarantine Regulations: Some countries have mandatory quarantine periods for incoming pets. Research these regulations and plan accordingly.
- Pack Essentials: Bring along enough food, medication, and familiar items to last the duration of your trip, plus some extra in case of delays.