THE PET PASSPORT SCHEME

This is a scheme designed to allow pets back into the United Kingdom after they have been taken abroad. It only operates in certain countries, and via certain carriers.

CHECK BEFORE YOU TRAVEL !

You must:

• Have your pet microchipped.
• Have your pet vaccinated against rabies. One or two injections may be necessary depending on the vaccine and your pets' age
• Have a blood test 2-4 WEEKS after vaccination to check the level of immunity (ask your Vet about the best time with their vaccine).
• Collect your PET PASSPORT, completed by a veterinary surgeon when satisfactory blood test results return.

In addition:

• You must have your pet treated for Ticks and Tapeworm 24 - 48 hours BEFORE RETURNING by a suitably qualified vet abroad, who will issue a certificate. DON'T WAIT UNTIL JUST BEFORE YOU LEAVE EUROPE - YOU WILL BE TURNED BACK
• You must sign a residency certificate which says that you have not taken your pet outside the PETS scheme in the previous 6 months

Remember:

• We recommend treating your pet for ticks and heartworm BEFORE travel as well as after to prevent infection.
• This is particularly important for warmer, mediterranean countries.

  The above precautions are designed to prevent rabies and other serious diseases from gaining a foothold in the UK. It is certainly worth considering whether or not your pet will be safe and enjoy the journey before travelling. It is also worth remembering that precautions are not always effective. At least 10 people in the UK die of malaria annually despite the availability of treatment.

  Diseases your pet can catch abroad.

• They are generally more common the further South you travel :

  • Heartworm. Transmitted by mosquitoes from Southern Europe up to Northern France.
  • Babesiosis. A blood parasite transmitted by ticks. A good reason to treat against ticks before travelling.
  • Ehrlichiosis. Another blood disease transmitted by ticks.
  • Leishmaniasis. A parasite transmitted by sandflies and able to infect humans, often causing skin sores, sometimes long after infection.

  Don't feel that with all the red tape and potential risks, it's just too much trouble to take your pet abroad. Already thousands of animals have travelled safely and happily on the PETS scheme, and the relative risks are quite small. Most vets are now quite used to the scheme, and will be happy to advise you.

  SEEK ADVICE WELL BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
  

  Remember to consult your vet if your pet is unwell at any time after returning from a trip abroad.

  CHECK THE GOVERNMENT SITE FOR THE LATEST ON ELIGIBLE COUNTRIES.
  http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/quarantine/index.htm

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