Traveling out of the EU is now required for your pet to be issued the Export Health Certificate (EHC). Additionally, you will need to fill out an export application form when you reside located in Great Britain (England, Scotland or Wales). This is applicable to all species.
It is necessary to select an official veterinarian who will be the person to who the Health Certificate will be delivered. It could take as long as 2 weeks for the documents to arrive, which is why we suggest starting as soon as you can. The different countries you are planning to visit will have different specifications for vaccinations treatment for parasites and tests. This EHC along with the Export Application Form will contain more information on the specific country you’ve chosen.
Identification of pets and vaccination
Your pet needs an individual identification to leave the EU. It is typically an ID chip, a closed ring, or tattoo. Your pet could also require specific vaccines as well as routine vaccinations. They may also require an rabies vaccination. For more information about thesevaccinations, visit our travel in Europe and Northern Ireland page. EU or NI page.
Your pet might also require the test of rabies antibodies (a testing of blood) prior to traveling out from the EU. The test should be conducted within 30 days of the vaccination for rabies. If the test results are within acceptable limits the pet is able to travel 120 days after. If the score is not sufficient the pet will require an additional booster vaccination against rabies and a the test will be repeated 30 days later. We recommend that you plan your pet’s travel plans at least six months in advance of the date you plan to travel.
For help with an animal export certificate get in touch with our experts…
Exporting your pet bird
Birds that travel out of EU typically have to be subjected to a 21-day isolation period prior to traveling. This should include the examination of an Official Veterinarian on the first day to verify the isolation facility and a follow-up examination prior to departure. It is recommended to allow at least one month between the application and departure to all bird species. Birds could also require cloacal swabs or tests of blood to confirm that they are not suffering from Avian Influenza. These tests should be carried out by specific labs, at certain times within the time frame of isolation. Additional details will be provided in the EHC that is received by the Veterinarian of the Official.
Every bird will need the Export Health Certificate, whether traveling within or outside the EU. It is impossible that birds travel without the Animal Health Certificate.
The countries you are visiting may not be able to accept your pet!
Certain countries do not allow imports of certain species regardless of the reason behind the travel. If you are in this situation for your pet, you are accountable to provide a suitable alternative to your animal. If you’re moving and your pet will not travel with you, you should make sure that a permanent solution is found prior to departure. There’s usually an unending waiting list for centers for rehoming, which is often months long. Don’t fall for thinking that this is an instant decision. The planning should begin early!
It is your responsibility to fulfill the requirements of your country of destination within the timeframe required. Pets are able to be exported and be transported in a matter of weeks, however the preparations for certain countries may be a whole year. Make sure you know the rules for the country you are interested in by contacting the relevant authorities of the country.
