The Pet Travel Scheme

...All you Need To Know!
Since 2000, the pet travel scheme has allowed cats and dogs to enter the UK from certain countries without having to be placed in quarantine. This means you can now take your pets on holiday with you. Currently only dogs, cats and ferrets are covered by the PETS.

You may NOT bring a pet into the UK under the Pet Travel Scheme from a private boat or plane.

Before you begin it is very important that you ensure that your pet’s regular vaccinations are up to date. (Protects against Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis and Distemper)

What are the conditions of the scheme?
1. Microchip – The animal must have a permanent microchip implanted into the scruff of the neck. This must be carried out BEFORE the rabies vaccination so the animal can be correctly identified. The chip must meet ISO specifications so it can be read by any standard microchip reader. The microchip number should be checked after insertion and the vet should record this number on your pet’s vaccination card. It is a good idea to get the vet to check your pet’s microchip at each visit as these are known to move around.

2. Rabies vaccination – Arrange to have your pet vaccinated against RABIES (but not before it is 3 months old). This can be carried out any time AFTER micro-chipping. It must be carried out in accordance with the vaccine manufacture’s data sheet. At the vaccine appointment the following information should be recorded on your pet’s passport and vaccination record:
• Date of birth
• Microchip number, date of insertion and microchip location (between shoulders)
• The vaccine product name
• The date of vaccination
• The batch number
• The date of booster vaccination

3. Blood tests – A blood sample must be taken after your pet is vaccinated to determine its level of immunity. It is recommended the sample is taken 3 weeks after vaccination. This is tested at an approved laboratory. It must carry antibodies at a level of 0.5IU/ml or higher in order to pass the test. The pet passport will then be issued. If the test fails, this will result in repeating the vaccination and blood tests.

4. If the test is successful, your pet may LEAVE the UK but will be UNABLE TO RETURN until six calendar months have passed since the sample was taken.
Always ensure you have a copy of the positive results.

5. Your pet must have a Pet passport signed by an official veterinary surgeon, confirming that the above conditions have been met. Don’t forget some countries may need additional certification or other requirements before admitting your pet – so it is vital to check with DEFRA before.

6. Tapeworm and tick treatment – Before entering the UK your pet must have been treated for ticks and tapeworms 24-48 hours prior to check in. The treatment has to be authorised for such use and the vet must record on the passport the manufactures name and product, time and date of administration then sign, date and stamp the document with the practice stamp.

7. Find a registered carrier – A full list of these can be accessed on the DEFRA website or contact them by telephone.
www.defra.gov.uk

YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING THE CORRECT DOCUMENTS FOR YOUR PET TO ENTER THE UK. MAKE SURE THEY ARE COMPLETED CORRECTLY AND YOUR PET MEETS ALL THE RULES. IF YOU DO NOT, YOUR PET MAY NOT BE ABLE TO ENTER THE COUNTRY AND WILL BE PUT IN QUARENTINE. THIS WILL MEAN DELAYS AND COST YOU MORE MONEY.