The UK Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) allows dogs, cats and ferrets to travel abroad and return to the UK safely, as long as specific requirements are met. Since the UK left the EU, most pets now need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for travel to EU countries and Northern Ireland.

An Animal Health Certificate is an official document issued by a vet that allows your pet to travel from Great Britain to the EU or Northern Ireland.

• Valid for 10 days for entry into the EU
• Valid for 4 months for onward travel within the EU
• Valid for return to Great Britain within 4 months

Here at Swanley Veterinary Clinic, we understand how daunting it can be travelling with your pet. We’ve tried to make the process as simple as possible to ensure your travel plans run smoothly. Please use our guide below for details on obtaining an Animal Health Certificate for your pet

Ensure pet is microchipped before (or at the time of) the rabies vaccination.

Ensure rabies vaccination is up to date. If not, it must be given at least 21-days before travel.

Complete this electronically so we have details of your travel plans.

Once we receive your form back, a member of the team will contact you to book your pets health check appointment. This appointment must be within 10 days of your travel date.

At the time of booking this appointment you will need to make payment. The Vet will prepare as much of the Animal Health Certificate in advance of your appointment.

At your pets health check appointment, they will be examined. If there are no concerns then your Animal Health Certificate will be completed and issued. Important Note: The person bringing the pet to the appointment, MUST be the person travelling abroad with them.