Pets Passports
A dog, cat or ferrett can be issued with an EU Passport which can accompany them when they travel to many countries.  The most important part and most stringent part of the passport is for the re-entry back into the UK. The main concern is the possibility of bringing in foreign diseases that are endemic in Europe but not in the UK. The greatest concern is Rabies but there is also a risk of Heartworm, Babesiosis, Leishmaniasis and Ehrlichiosis.
We have a series of handouts to help you to prepare for trips abroad or for a move to another country. There are several things that a pet needs and some cost to all this so possibly not suitable for a single holiday abroad. It is for those who travel regularly and are not keen to leave their pet behind.
Identichip
This microchip gives your pet unique identification. It is inserted under the skin and detected by an electronic scanner. It must be in place before the first rabies vaccine.
Rabies
This injection can be given on the same day as the identichip as long as the chip is given first. The chip number will be recorded on our computer, in your vaccination card and on the pet passport. It is important to check the criteria of the country that you plan to travel to, in case the vaccinations need to be given more frequently than for the purpose of the passport.
There are protocols suggesting that two rabies vaccine are given but usually one vaccine has been sufficient. It would be appropriate in some cases to give two rabies injections 2-4 weeks apart prior to the blood test. You can ask on of our Veterinary Surgeons for their advice.
Blood Sample
A blood sample is taken 3-4 weeks after the vaccine. Pets are free to leave the country 21 days after the rabies  vaccination, but will be unable to return until 6 months after the date of a successful blood test. This shows effective immunity against rabies. The results of the blood test can take up to 8 weeks to return so give yourself plenty of time prior to travel. The rabies booster must be given every two years to meet the requirement in the UK and that allows you to continue to travel.
It is good practice to have your identichip checked whenever you are at the Veterinary Practice. Not only does this give you the confidence to know that if your pet was ever lost or involved in an accident then the finder can trace you. It also means that when you are travelling abroad the scanners at the ports will always be able to find the chip in your pet easily.
Full details of this Pet Travel Scheme can be found on http://ww2.defra.gov.uk/ There are requirements about the parasite control needed in order to re-enter the UK. Before going abroad we are keen for you to take steps to prevent your pet contracting diseases such as heartworm and other diseases carried by ticks. This is important as your pet will be more susceptible to diseases that they have never met before.
The other consideration is the method of travel. Ferries and airlines are now used to taking pets but they may have regulations about the container that they travel in and where they are placed for the journey. It is good to get in touch well before your journey or use an agent that will transport pets abroad.
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