Changes to Pet Travel - Summer 2011

We would like to make all our clients aware that Defra has announced that from 1 January 2012, the rules for pets (cats, dogs and ferrets) entering the country under the Pet Travel Scheme will change as the UK aligns its Scheme with the EU-wide pet movement system.

Rabies

Pets will no longer require a blood test after vaccination, and the subsequent waiting period before entry to the UK is permitted is to be reduced from 6 months to 21 days after the rabies vaccination

Pets coming from other non-EU countries which are not “listed” in the Regulation (e.g. China and South Africa) will be entitled to enter the UK for the first time from 1 January 2012 without having to undergo six months compulsory quarantine provided they meet the entry controls.

It is important that pet owners are aware of these changes as soon as possible so that they can be factored into future travel plans

Ticks

Tick treatments will no longer be required under the Scheme. However, the British Veterinary Association and British Small Animal Veterinary Association strongly advise that preventative tick treatment is continued.

Tapeworms

A final decision has not been reached at European level on the requirements for ongoing tapeworm controls to protect the UK from Echinococcus multilocularis.

However, the British Veterinary Association and British Small Animal Veterinary Association have been working closely with Defra to lobby the European Commission for the retention of tapeworm controls.

The European Commission has indicated that its proposals (expected shortly) would allow the UK to retain tapeworm controls with a requirement that animals be treated between one and five days before entry or re-entry into the UK.

Pet owner leaflet in pdf format for further information

For further details, click on the link below:

Other dangers to be aware of are tick-borne diseases such as Babesia canis in the South of France and Spain which could be fatal if we do not recognise the unusual symptoms when you return home and do a blood test. Another rare disease that occurs in Spain and can also affect humans as well as dogs is Leishmaniasis, so it is vital to have excellent flea and tick control when visiting these countries. Mosquitoes can carry Heartworm in foreign countries, so good worming is vital.