The Kennel Club has welcomed new changes to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) policy regarding the movements of animals travelling to shows, competitions, and events, which will simplify the process for Northern Irish dog owners.
Previously, anyone travelling to dog shows from Northern Ireland to Great Britain, were subject to the full requirements of Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 as implemented by the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Regulations (NI) 2006, because it had been deemed that the transport was ‘in connection with an economic activity’. As part of this, Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 places a number of requirements on the ‘animal transporter’, including obtaining a valid transporter authorisation, and, potentially, certificates of competence and vehicle approval.
DAERA has now revised its policy position and, from 1 October 2025, the following will be exempt from the Regulation that has previously classed these as an economic activity:
- Pet animals that are transported by their owner on a private journey
- Pet animals, e.g. dogs and cats, taken to or from a specialist show or competition and the primary purpose is for pleasure rather than part of a business
- Individuals attending shows or competitions primarily for pleasure who share the burden of transport, e.g. petrol costs, but there is no profit made by the individual undertaking the transport
Dr Ed Hayes, Head of Public Affairs at The Kennel Club, said: “We know that the current travel regulations have placed a significant burden on dog show exhibitors, and we have called on DAERA for a number of years to reconsider their policy. We are therefore delighted that DAERA has listened to these concerns and ensured that those travelling from Northern Ireland to Great Britain can enjoy their hobby without unnecessary, additional hurdles.”
Further information can be found by visiting https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/welfare-animals-during-transport.