Are you thinking of taking your pet with you on a trip abroad? Then you should know about the Pet Travel Scheme for a stress-free journey. The Pet Travel Scheme is a must for anyone who wants to travel with their pet to and from the UK and who also wants to avoid having their pet go into long-term quarantine. This scheme, implemented by the UK Government, allows for the movement of dogs, cats and ferrets, subject to certain health and document requirements.
In this blog, you’ll learn about the Pet Travel Scheme, its requirements and eligible countries.
This blog discusses the Pet Travel Scheme, the necessary details related to it and countries that are eligible for the procedure.
What is the Pet Travel Scheme?
Pet lovers are often curious about what is the Pet Travel Scheme? The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) allows pet dogs, cats and ferrets to enter the UK without quarantine as long as they meet the rules. This scheme is managed by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) of the British government.
The PETS system is intended to let pets accompany their owners on international travels while helping keep Great Britain free of diseases like rabies. The scheme includes travel to and from the UK, EU countries and other approved countries, but there are certain requirements which must be met to guarantee your pet’s health and safety. You can escape lengthy periods of quarantine with the pets travel scheme.
UK Gov Pet Travel Scheme Countries
The UK Gov Pet Travel Scheme countries are divided into the following three categories:
Part 1 Listed Countries: This list includes European Union (EU) member states like Norway, Switzerland, and Iceland. Pets travelling from these countries can enter the UK with a pet passport.
Part 2 Listed Countries: This involves countries such as the USA, Canada, Australia and Japan. Requirements are the same as Part 1, but a Great Britain Pet Health Certificate is often needed instead of an EU Pet Passport.
Unlisted Countries: These countries are not listed in either list Part 1 or Part 2 (for example, China, South Africa, or India). They have to follow strict rules. Other than the microchip, rabies vaccination, and a health certificate, a rabies blood test and a 3-month waiting period are required.
The full list of listed and unlisted countries can be found on the GOV.UK website, so you are aware of the nature of your pet’s travel.
Requirements for the Pet Travel Scheme
In order for your pet to be eligible to travel under the Pets Travel Scheme, these are the basics that must be taken in this order:
1- Microchipping
Your pet’s microchip must be ISO-compliant (15 digits, meeting ISO 11784/11785 standards). This is the very initial step in the process, as it identifies your pet and links to their health records. The microchip has to be in before the rabies vaccine, or the vaccine doesn’t count. Make sure to update your contact information in the microchip database.
2- Rabies Vaccination
Your pet will also require a rabies vaccination, which can be given when the microchip is inserted. Pets must be at least 12 weeks old to be vaccinated. You’ll also need to wait for 21 days following the vaccination to build up immunity. Continue getting booster shots to minimise any gaps in protection.
3- Pet Travel Documents
Here’s what you’ll need, depending on where you’re travelling from:
- An EU Pet Passport (from an EU country or select countries, such as Norway or Switzerland) if your pet is coming from EU countries or listed countries.
- A Great Britain Pet Health Certificate for dogs not travelling from an EU Pet Passport country or entering the U.K. from unlisted countries. This must be provided by an approved vet and, in some cases, also approved by the competent authority.
- For return travel to the EU, you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued in Great Britain, valid for 10 days from issuance for EU entry and up to 4 months for return to Great Britain.
4- Tapeworm years (dogs only)
Dogs travelling to the UK, Ireland, Finland, Norway or Malta need to be treated against a tapeworm (e.g. with praziquantel) by a vet between 24-120 hours (1-5 days) before arrival. This isn’t required for cats and ferrets, or dogs travelling from Finland, Ireland, Malta or Norway.
5- Rabies Blood Test For Unlisted Countries
If you are travelling from a country not listed on the countries included in the UK Gov pet travel scheme countries list, your pet must have a rabies blood test (titer test) at least 30 days after their rabies vaccination. The test must detect 0.5 IU/ml of rabies antibodies. You’ll then have to wait 3 months from the date of the blood sample before you enter Great Britain. This doesn’t apply to EU countries or listed countries like the USA, Canada, or Australia.
6- Approved Travel Routes
Pets travelling to Great Britain must travel on an authorised route (often as ‘manifest cargo’ on an approved airline). Consult your airline and the U.K. government’s website for authorised carriers and entry points. Unaccompanied pets or those arriving by sea may face stricter checks or quarantine if the rules aren’t followed.
7- Declaration of Non-Commercial Travel
You will also need to sign a declaration saying that you will not sell or transfer ownership of your pet. If you travel with more than 5 pets, or for commercial purposes (e.g. rehoming), different rules (Balai rules) apply, and you may require additional permits.
Tips for a Smooth Pet Travel Experience
Follow the given recommendations to ensure a stress-free journey:
- Start preparations at least 4–6 months in advance, especially for unlisted countries, to account for blood tests and waiting periods.
- Check airline rules, as each airline has specific pet travel policies. Book your pet as manifest cargo for UK entry and confirm approved routes.
- Ensure all paperwork includes the correct microchip number, vaccine details, and tapeworm treatment dates (if applicable).
- Consider using a pet transport service for complex journeys. They can handle paperwork, bookings, and customs coordination.
- Rules can change, so always check the latest guidance on GOV.UK website.
If you follow the rules, the Pet Travel Scheme allows you to take your pet on holiday or move abroad with them without the stress of quarantine. From microchipping to rabies vaccinations and proper travel documents, it’s all about preparation. Whether you’re travelling within the EU, to listed countries, or even further afield, the UK gov pet travel scheme will enable you and your pet to enjoy the adventure together.
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FAQs
1- Why does the Pet Travel Scheme matter?
Under the Pet Travel Scheme, the UK is protected against diseases such as rabies and Brucella canis, which is prevalent in dogs brought from Eastern European countries. By following the rules, you’re not only ensuring your pet’s safety but also helping to prevent exotic diseases from spreading.
2- Do I need a pet passport for the Pets Travel Scheme?
Yes, you will require a pet passport or an Animal Health Certificate based on your country of travel.
3- How much is a pet travel certificate required under the UK Gov Pet Travel Scheme?
There is no set price for a Pet travel certificate. A pet travel certificate (Animal Health Certificate) in the UK typically costs £90–£200, depending on the provider and service type.
