Exploring the EU with your Dog: What Pet Owners Need to Know!
Are you planning on taking your beloved pooch on holiday with you to Europe this year but aren’t sure what you need to do? Don’t worry, here is a checklist of everything you need to know and organise before making the trip.
The first thing you need to do is ensure your dog is microchipped. If multiple people own your dog, ensure both owner’s details are on the microchip so in the event that one of the owners is unable to travel, the other can still cross the border with the dog. Border control will scan your dog’s microchip information to identify your pup, and all relevant paperwork will need to be linked to the microchip number!
Your dog must be vaccinated against rabies, at least 21 days BEFORE your planned travel. Make sure you check with your vet how long the vaccine will last. For most vaccines, it is valid for three years, but this may vary depending on individual vets’ dosage.
Unless your pup has a European issued Pet Passport, it will need to have an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) no more than 10 days before you plan to leave Great Britain. This is a legal document which is written in the language of the country you enter first after leaving GB. It is important you book this appointment well in advance, because the cost may vary greatly (£90-£200) so shop around if necessary.
If you are travelling from GB to Finland, the Republic of Ireland, Norway or Malta, your dog will need to be treated for tapeworm no less than 24 hours before entering the country, and no more than 5 days before. Currently, all pet checks travelling from GB to Northern Ireland have been suspended indefinitely, but please ensure you follow the latest government guidance. You find more information here.
Finally, prior to returning to GB, your pup must be treated for tapeworm no less than 24 hours before arriving in the UK, and no more than 5 days prior. Treatment date and time must be written in the Animal Health Certificate.
It may seem overwhelming, but as long as you are prepared and have time to plan, your dog should easily be able to join you on your EU road trip adventure this year!
