Bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret back into the UK under the Pet Travel Scheme
As the owner, you are responsible for making sure you have the necessary documentation for your pet to enter the UK. You must make sure it is correctly completed and that your pet meets all the rules. If your pet does not meet the entry rules, it will not be allowed to enter the UK unless it is licensed into quarantine.
Listed below are guidelines for entering the UK from the EU and listed non-EU countries but we strongly advise that you read all the relevant information on the Defra website before travelling/ making travelling arrangements or contact Defra on 0870 241 1710.
If you are entering the UK from an unlisted non-EU country, from the Republic of Ireland or have more than 5 pets entering you must visit the above website for information or contact Defra on 0870 241 1710.
Entering the UK from the EU or listed non-EU countries
Step 1: Microchip must be fitted.
Step 2: Be vaccinated against Rabies. If previously vaccinated against Rabies this must be up to date. After initial vaccination there is a waiting period of 21 days before entry back into the UK. There is also a waiting period of 21 days after initial vaccination before your pet can travel into an EU or listed non-EU country.
Step 3: EU pet passport is issued.
Step 4: Tapeworm treatment (DOGS ONLY) - All pet dogs must be treated for tapeworm by a vet not less than 24 hours and not more than 120 hours (1-5 days) before their scheduled arrival time in the UK. (This is not required if entering from Finland, Ireland or Malta).
Step 5: Arrange for your pet to travel with an approved transport company on an authorised route.
Exotic Diseases
Your pet may be exposed to a number of potentially fatal diseases whilst overseas. These include:
Babesiosis - transmitted by ticks
Ehrlichiosis - transmitted by ticks
Leishmaniasis - transmitted by sand-flies
Heartworm - transmitted by mosquitoes
To help prevent these diseases:
- Avoid high-risk areas/times of year
Avoid tick bites:
- Use a specific treatment before and during the trip – we can advise in practice
- Check your pet daily and remove any ticks found using a proper tick-removing tool
Avoid Sand-fly Bites
- Use insecticide/repellent
- Do not let your pet lie outdoors in the evening/night
Avoid Mosquito Bites - advice as for Sand flies
- Use Heartworm treatment
- Give first dose one month before exposure to mosquitoes and then monthly, with the final dose given after returning to the UK