Brexit and pets

#Act4
Pets

Brexit and pets

11 December 2020
News
Due to Brexit there are important new rules applying for pets travelling with us. Check with your vet before traveling!

The new rules will enter into force on January 1st and they only apply to the non-commercial movement of pets (cats, dogs, ferrets). This means pets coming on holidays with us. 

Why? Because Great Britain has now been listed as a territory under the provisions of Article 13(2) of Regulation (EU) No 576/2013. Northern Ireland, however, continues to be treated as an EU Member State with this regard, as per the provisions of the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland, as part of the Withdrawal Agreement.

What are the new rules?

Pets resident in Great Britain and visiting the EU and Northern Ireland

  • The "EU pet passport" is no longer valid.
  • An animal health certificate issued by an official veterinarian is required for each entry and only remains valid for a period of up to four months from the date of the documentary and identity checks. This certificate must attest a valid anti-rabies vaccination.
  • In addition, prior to entry into Finland, Ireland, Malta or Northern Ireland from Great Britain, pet dogs need to be treated against echinococcus multilocularis (a form of tapeworm) and this treatment must be attested by the official or authorised veterinarian in the animal health certificate. 
  • Pets entering the EU or Northern Ireland after the end of the transition period (from January 1st) MUST be presented to a designated travellers’ point of entry in order to undergo the necessary compliance checks.

Pets resident in the EU and Northern Ireland visiting Great Britain

  • The “EU pet passport” is still valid - your pet needs to be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entry, identified with a transponder, and needs to be at least 12 weeks old (although this may increase). 
  • From July 1st pets need to be presented to a designated travellers’ point of entry into Great Britain.
  • When pets return home with you they also need to be presented to a designated travellers’ point of entry.
  • When dogs return to Finland, Ireland, Malta and Northern Ireland they need to be treated against echinococcus multilocularis.

These rules seem complicated but no worries, they’re feasible! You only need to check with your vet before traveling. Bon voyage!