Pet Travel Scheme

Dogs and cats can travel freely in the EU thanks to the Pet Travel Scheme. That means you can take your cat or dog on holiday to Spain without it having to go through quarantine on re-entry into the UK. To qualify your pet must be:

1. Microchipped with an ISO type chip (standard in the UK)
2. Have a rabies vaccination at the time of or after the microchip
3. Have a blood test to confirm the rabies vaccination has given your pet sufficient immunity
4. A Pet Passport Issued by your vet
5. A 6month wait from the date of the blood test before your pet can re-enter the UK.
6. have a tick and tapeworm treatment given by a vet 24-48 hours before re-entering the UK

FAQs

Does my pet need to go into quarantine on re-entering the UK?

No, provided you have complied with the requirements above and 6 months have elapsed since the date of the blood test, your pet does not need to go into quarantine if coming from a qualifying country.

How long does the rabies injection last?

It is valid for the period according to the manufacturers recommendations, usually 2 or 3 years. It is vital that you have your pet revaccinated before the due date in your Pet Passport, otherwise a further blood test and 6 month wait will be necessary.

Are there other diseases I need to worry about?

Certainly- there are some very serious illnesses carried by ticks, mosquitoes and biting flies. We recommend all pets travelling abroad are treated for ticks, and depending on the area of travel for heartworm and against biting flies too.

What if I am travelling to a non-EU country?

You should check the DEFRA website for the qualifying countries. Non EU countries may have specific requirements for entry and may require an Export Health Certificate. You should call the surgery on 0121 449 3716 to make an appointment to speak to an LVI registered vet who can advise on taking pets abroad.

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