With so many animal lovers looking at potentially travelling with their pets, it’s important to understand the guidance in place so that they don’t get left behind.

If you’re travelling to an EU country or Northern Ireland, your pet now needs to:

• Be microchipped
• Have a valid rabies vaccination
• Treated for tapeworm, if they’re a dog and you’re travelling directly to Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Norway or Malta
• Have an Animal Health Certificate unless you have a pet passport issued in an EU country or Northern Ireland

The Animal Health Certificate will be valid for:

• 10 days after the date of issue for entry into the EU or NI
• onward travel within the EU for four months after the date of issue
• re-entry to Great Britain for four months after the date of issue
• You would need to enter the EU through a Travellers’ Point of Entry, and may need to provide proof of all the above.

Things to bear in mind

• Pets need to be at least 12 weeks old before they receive a rabies vaccine
• The rabies vaccine cannot be given within two weeks of another vaccine
• You cannot travel until 21 days after your pet has received the rabies vaccine
• Blood tests are no longer required
• You will need proof of a rabies vaccine before your vet provides the Animal Health Certificate
• You will need to see your vet 10 days prior to travelling for the Certificate to be valid
• Let your vet know where you will be entering the EU so that the certificate can be in dual language and readable at your point of entry
• Ask your vet how much this will cost so that you can plan ahead

Before you book to go abroad with your pet, there are a few things you need to consider before taking them with you. Planning before you book will ensure that they are happy and comfortable whether you decide to holiday with your pet or leave them in the care of a responsible person.

• How comfortable will your pet be?
• How pet-friendly is your destination?
• Have you looked for the nearest vet?
• Have you considered the weather?

Read the full article at https://www.animalfriends.co.uk/dog/dog-advice/travel/travelling-abroad-with-your-pet-after-brexit/