TRAVELLING TO EUROPE WITH YOUR PET AFTER BREXIT FROM 01/01/21
The latest advice from DEFRA is that no agreement has been reached between UK and EU concerning travel arrangements with companion animals to Europe. Their advice is that we could still become an “unlisted” country, and as such no dog, cat or ferret may cross the border without a valid Rabies Antibody Test result and an Export Health Certificate.
If any clients have plans to travel with their pets in the New Year, Government strongly advise such clients to have a Rabies Antibody Test done at least 3 months before their intended travel date. We can arrange and conduct the test on your behalf and we are also one of a very few Practices in the area authorised to issue EHCs.
PROTOCOL FOR ENTRY TO THE EU FOR UNLISTED COUNTRIES:
- A Rabies Vaccine or course should be administered.
- 30 days later a blood sample is taken and sent to an EU-approved Laboratory for Antibody testing.
- If the result shows antibodies above the required level, the animal may travel to or enter the EU 90 days after the blood test was taken.
- An Export Health Certificate must be sought and issued within 10 days of the intended travel date.
Please note that in this scenario current PETS passports are NO LONGER VALID.
If you have a current, valid PETS passport, the vaccination in step 1 may not be required to boost immunity and the blood test can be performed immediately.
This advice may change at any time, and hopefully the existing arrangements can carry on in perpetuity, but the worst-case-scenario has been issued which will mean huge upheaval of the current simple protocols.
If you wish to book your pet in for Rabies vaccinations or a Rabies Antibody Test (for those already vaccinated), please contact the surgery to arrange an appointment.
