Planning a trip with your furry best friend can be an exciting adventure, but with the recent changes to travel regulations after Brexit, it's important to be prepared. If you're planning to travel with your dog to Europe and back to the UK, here are some things you need to know.
Getting your dog ready for travel
Before traveling, your dog must be microchipped and have a valid pet passport or an animal health certificate. Your vet can provide you with the necessary paperwork and ensure that your dog is up to date on all required vaccinations, including a rabies vaccine.
It's also a good idea to make sure your dog is comfortable with car rides and any necessary travel equipment, such as a crate or carrier. This will help reduce stress and make the journey smoother for both you and your furry friend.
Travelling to Europe
When travelling to Europe with your dog, you can enter most EU countries without the need for additional paperwork or checks. However, some countries may have their own specific requirements, so it's important to research your destination in advance.
Travelling back to the UK
When returning to the UK from Europe with your dog, there are some new requirements to be aware of due to Brexit. As of January 2022, dogs must have an animal health certificate (AHC) instead of a pet passport. The AHC must be obtained within 10 days of travel and must be issued by an official veterinarian.
You'll also need to make sure your dog has been treated for tapeworm between one and five days before returning to the UK. This treatment must be documented in your dog's AHC.
If you're travelling from an EU country, your dog will need to enter the UK through a designated Travellers' Point of Entry (TPE). Your carrier can provide you with information on which TPEs are available.
In addition to the AHC and tapeworm treatment, your dog will still need to be microchipped and have up-to-date vaccinations, including a rabies vaccine.
Final tips for travelling with your dog
Here are some final tips to help make your trip with your furry friend as stress-free as possible:
- Bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, as well as any necessary medications.
- Get some long-lasting Natural Dog Treats like Himalayan Yak Milk or Coffee Wood Chew to keep your dog busy and calm during the trip.
- Take breaks every few hours to allow your dog to stretch their legs and go to the bathroom.
- Make sure your dog has identification tags and that the contact information is up to date.
- Consider purchasing pet travel insurance in case of unexpected expenses or emergencies.
Travelling with your dog to Europe and back to the UK after Brexit may seem daunting at first, but with a little preparation and research, you and your furry friend can enjoy a safe and fun adventure together.
