Pet Passports
Increasing numbers of pet owners are now enjoying taking their pet with them for holidays abroad. This has been made possible by the ‘pet passport scheme’. However, it is important for owners to realise that 7-8 months planning is required before being able to embark on their first holiday with their pet.
The first requirement to be met is that of a microchip, placed beneath the animal’s skin. This allows reliable identification of the animal from then on. Next a vaccination against rabies is necessary. This must be done after the animal is 3 months old. One month later a blood sample is taken and tested to check for a satisfactory level of rabies antibodies following vaccination. Once this is achieved a passport can be issued but the animal can NOT re-enter the UK until 6 months after the successful blood test was taken.
We recommend that anyone wishing to travel abroad with their pet discusses this with their vet at least 8-12 months before their expected dates of travel.
