The Pet Travel Scheme came into force in 2000 as a control measure to prevent rabies, certain tick-borne diseases and tapeworm from entering the UK via the importation of pets.  Before pets can enter the UK under the scheme they must meet certain animal health requirements, such as being vaccinated against rabies.

In June 2011 the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs outlined that the current scheme will be changing as of January 1st 2012.

Changes to the scheme will include:

• reducing the length of time after vaccination that a dog may enter or return to the UK from six months to 21 days
• the removal of the requirement to blood test the dog before travel
• the removal of the need to have the dog treated for ticks

Travel to the UK from certain countries outside the EU will require a blood test to be carried out after vaccination and a further waiting time of three months from the time of the blood test, instead of the present six months after the blood test

The Kennel Club firmly believes that whilst the Pet Travel Scheme was originally set up to protect human health, it is also vital to ensure that owners continue to protect their dogs’ health by carrying out treatment for ticks.

Full details of the changes to the Pet Travel Scheme are as follows:

• Entry rules for pets entering the UK from the EU and listed non-EU countries

• Entry rules for pets entering the UK from unlisted non-EU countries

If you require further information or advice on these changes, visit Defra’s website: http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/pets/travel/pets/

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