Travelling with your pet (dog, cat or ferret) abroad
In January 2021, Great Britain became a 'Third Country' with respect to the EU Pet Travel Scheme, with 'Part 2 Listed' status for the purposes of non-commercial pet travel. This means the old GB EU Pet Passports are no longer valid for travel to Europe.
What documents do I need to travel abroad with my pet?
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To travel or move to the EU with your pet, you will require an Animal Health Certificate (AHC).
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An AHC can only be issued by a specially qualified Official Veterinarian (OV).
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We have two OVs at the practice - Libby Smith MRVCS and Farah Stones MRCVS.
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AHCs cannot be used for animals entering the EU for reasons of financial gain, as this is classed as commercial travel e.g. a breeder selling a puppy. Please contact our OVs at the practice on 01767 627317 if this is the case.
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AHCs are not applicable for countries outside the EU, so please contact our OVs for advice on 01767 627317.
Animal Health Certificates
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To obtain an AHC your pet must be microchipped and have a valid Rabies vaccination, so there may be a 21 day wait before travel.
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AHCs are only valid for 10 days from the date of issue so it must be issued by an OV within 10 days of your departure date.
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Up to 5 pets can be included on a single AHC.
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AHCs are valid for onward travel in the EU, or back to the UK, for 4 months from the date of issue, provided the Rabies vaccination does not lapse in that time
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AHCs are only valid for a single trip of entry into the EU. Each time you enter the EU from the UK with your pet you will need a new AHC
Further information on travelling with your pet abroad can be found at https://www.gov.uk/taking-your-pet-abroad
Requests for an AHC can be submitted to the practice by completing the questionnaire below:
Following receipt of your questionnaire, Libby or Farah will then be in touch to arrange an appointment with you & your pet to complete the AHC. We are able to issue AHCs for non-registered clients, although there is an additional charge for this, due to the work and time needed to first obtain you pet's history from your usual vet.
Travel Document Request
Animal Health Certificate Prices 2024
Registered clients £175.76
Non-registered clients £222.62
Membership provides a comprehensive preventative healthcare plan for your pet which includes annual booster vaccinations, flea and worming treatment & many other benefits. The plan offers great savings and payments are spread evenly across the year.
