Dogs entering the UK
From the 1/1/2012 regulations on dogs entering the UK are being relaxed, but there is still a procedure to follow which if not correct your dog will be refused entry to the UK. NB There are no checks when you leave the UK to return to Europe.
Please do not rely on this information – speak to your vet and refer to the DEFRA website to make sure you comply with these new regulations.
For your dog to enter the UK from the countries listed below:
Austria Estonia Hungary Netherlands Azores Faroe Islands Ireland 3 Poland Balearic Islands Finland Italy Portugal Belgium France Latvia Reunion Bulgaria French Guiana Lithuania Romania Canary Islands Germany Luxembourg Slovakia Ceuta Gibraltar Madeira Slovenia Cyprus 1 Greece Malta Spain Czech Republic Greenland Martinique Sweden Denmark Guadeloupe 2 Melilla
You must answer ‘yes’ to the following questions:
- Is it microchipped?
- Is your pet currently vaccinated against rabies?
- Was it vaccinated after it was microchipped?
- Have you got an EU Pet Passport from your vet certifying the microchip and vaccination?
- Have 21 days passed since it was vaccinated?
- Are you travelling into the UK with your pet on an approved route?
Consult your vet for advice 24-48 hours before crossing to the UK.
Travel with more than five pets
Movement of dogs between EU Member States – including into and out of the UK – is limited to five per person, unless you are taking part in a competition, show or sporting event.
These animals will require a specific health certificate issued by the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency. Applications for the certificate should be made at least 10 working days prior to the date of travel. The certificate will be issued direct to your nominated Official Veterinarian.
In order to complete certification the Official Veterinarian will require:
- Evidence the animals are entered in or registered to appear in a show, event or competition.
- To undertake a clinical examination of the animals within 24 hours of travel.
International Trade Centre for Exports:
Each pet you are taking to Europe will still need a completed and valid pet passport. The new certificate is not evidence your pets meets the Pet Travel Scheme rules. For more information contact the Carlisle Specialist Service Centre Export Team.
- Email: centralops.carlisle@animalhealth.gsi.gov.uk
- Tel: 01228 403600
- Fax: 01228 591900
Non-approved countries ie Russia may need a minimum of 4 months to prepare your dogs for travel to the UK
Russian Federation please check the DEFRA website as you have different requirements based on region and different time requirements.
For your dog to enter the UK from non-approved countries: (check the DEFRA website for these countries)