Village Vet Advice Regarding Pet Travel and Brexit

03/06/2019

In the event of a “no-deal” Brexit, it is possible that there will be some major changes to the Pet Travel Scheme. The UK may become viewed as a “Third Country.” The advice being given by APHA and the RCVS is that we should prepare pet owners that want to travel to the EU after 31st October 2019 should start the process 4 months in advance. This is to allow for a Microchip and Rabies vaccination; 30 days wait; blood test for Rabies antibodies; 3 months wait from the date of a blood test before travel. UK Pet Passports will become invalid if there is a no deal scenario with the EU, instead short term export certificates will be required.

It is quite possible that all of this will be unnecessary, but we are providing pet owners with the correct advice and the choice to make the best decision for themselves. To travel on 31st October, you would need to start the process no later than 29 June. Remember this is only IF there is a no-deal Brexit.

The Government has published further guidance for pet owners on its website.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/pet-travel-to-europe-after-brexit