Pets - Pet Passport Scheme
Since the introduction of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) a few years ago the process for travelling with pet cats and dogs has now been superseded, as from 1 st October 2004, by the Pet Passport .( PETS forms can still be used until their current expiry date )
We are able to offer clients and their pets a fully inclusive package to take the headache out of organising your Pet Passport. The scheme allows the movement of cats and dogs ( and ferrets ) to other EU countries and the return to the UK from the EU and a range of other countries as specified ---this is continuously changing and clients should refer to DEFRA ----see link to their website at end of this section.
What's required?
- All animals must be microchipped prior to or at the time of rabies vaccination
- Rabies vaccination –one or two doses as discussed with the vet ( a 2 week interval if given 2 doses )
- A blood test one month after the last vaccination dose to check the vaccine has provided adequate protection
- Provision of the fully completed paperwork to comply with DEFRA requirements once the results from the blood test are known
- Tick and tapeworm treatment before returning to the UK ( see Anything else you need to do? below )
When can you go?
- Once you have the Pet Passport you may travel
When can you return to the UK ?
- You can only return with your pets SIX MONTHS from the date the blood test was taken
( NB this means you must plan to start vaccination well ahead of your plans to travel especially if you will only be abroad for a short time).
How long is the passport valid for?
- Under current vaccine guidelines the passport is valid for two years from the date of vaccination BUT remember this is approximately 18 months from when you are likely to first use the passport for travelling.
If you plan to be away for some time and may need to have your pet revaccinated whilst abroad then it is vital you speak to us as this advice may not be valid.
Anything else you need to do?
- Only certain ferry /train /airlines and airports can currently monitor the Pet Passport scheme so you need to check with your carrier that the route you choose is valid or use the link to DEFRA website below.
- Before you return to the UK you must have your pet treated by a Veterinary Surgeon whilst abroad for ticks and tapeworms using approved products 24 – 48 hrs before you embark for the UK . Your Pet Passport will be stamped accordingly.
Prevention of other diseases not normally found in the UK
Owners should be aware of some diseases affecting cats and dogs which are not normally found in the UK but have started to become apparent since the Pet travel scheme /Pet passport have been introduced. They are primarily insect borne diseases and are widespread across much of Southern and Mediterranean Europe.
- Tick borne diseases Babesiosis and Ehrlichiosis ---the only prevention is to avoid the ticks by using good tick control products ----we can advise.
- Leishmaniasis which is transmitted by sandflies ---prevention is by avoiding higher risk periods of the day and /or using insecticidal products---we can help but you may well need to take local advice at your destination.
- Heartworm ( D .immitis) occurs in pockets of incidence and is spread by mosquito –it causes a very debilitating disease which is difficult to treat but prevention is straightforward with products available in the UK . Preventative measures should be started prior to travel if you anticipate travelling to an at risk area.