Traveling with pets from the UK to the EU has undergone significant changes since Brexit, making it essential for pet owners to understand the Animal Health Certificate (AHC). This certificate is a vital document for anyone wishing to take their dog, cat, or ferret across the UK-EU border.
If you're planning to travel with your furry friend, here's everything you need to know about the Animal Health Certificate, its requirements, and the process for obtaining it.
What is an Animal Health Certificate (AHC)?
An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is an official document issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV) certifying that your pet is eligible to travel from the UK to an EU country or Northern Ireland. Introduced after Brexit in January 2021, the AHC replaced the previous GB-issued pet passports for pets traveling from Great Britain to the EU.
Key Features of the Animal Health Certificate:
- It is valid for a limited period—10 days for entry into the EU or Northern Ireland.
- It is only valid for one trip, meaning you'll need a new AHC for each journey.
- It confirms your pet has met health requirements, including rabies vaccination and microchipping.
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Who Needs an Animal Health Certificate?
If you're traveling with a dog, cat, or ferret from the UK to an EU country or Northern Ireland, you will need an AHC. Other pet species will require a different type of certificate.
Requirements for Obtaining an Animal Health Certificate:
Microchipping:
Your pet must be microchipped, with the microchip details recorded in the certificate.Rabies Vaccination:
Your pet must have a valid rabies vaccination. After the initial rabies vaccination, there is a 21-day waiting period before the AHC can be issued. This waiting period does not apply to booster shots.
Steps to Get an Animal Health Certificate for Pet Travel
Obtaining an AHC requires a visit to an Official Veterinarian. Here's how the process works:
Get the Rabies Vaccination:
Schedule an appointment with your vet for your pet's rabies vaccination. If your pet has already received the rabies vaccination, you can proceed to the next step.Book a Vet Appointment for the AHC:
The AHC must be issued within 10 days of your pet's departure. Make sure you book your vet appointment accordingly.Provide Required Documentation:
Bring proof of your pet's microchip implantation date and vaccination history to the appointment.Official Veterinarian Issues the AHC:
The OV will check your pet's details, issue the certificate, and sign it. The AHC will be valid for 10 days for entry into the EU or Northern Ireland.
How Long Does an Animal Health Certificate Last
- 10 days: Valid for entry into the EU or Northern Ireland.
- 4 months: Valid for onward travel within the EU after entry.
- 4 months: Valid for re-entry to the UK from the EU.
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Animal Health Certificate vs. Pet Passport for Pet Transport
The main difference between an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) and a Pet Passport lies in their use and validity. The AHC is required for pets traveling from the UK to the EU post-Brexit. It is a single-use document that is valid for 10 days for entry into the EU, and a new certificate must be obtained for each trip. It certifies that the pet has been microchipped and vaccinated against rabies.
On the other hand, a Pet Passport is still valid for EU residents and allows for multiple trips within the EU as long as the rabies vaccination remains current. While the AHC is specific to UK residents traveling to the EU, the Pet Passport is a long-term travel document for pets within the EU.
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Special Considerations: Tapeworm Treatment
If you're relocating a dog to Ireland, Norway, Finland, or Malta, additional tapeworm treatment is required. This must be administered between 24 and 120 hours before your arrival. The treatment must be documented in the AHC to ensure compliance with regulations.
How Much is an Animal Health Certificate
The cost of obtaining an AHC can vary, but on average, it ranges from £100 to £250. However, specialized pet travel clinics often offer AHCs at a lower price, starting from £99 for the first pet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Rabies Vaccination Timing:
Ensure that your pet’s rabies vaccination is up-to-date and that you’ve allowed the necessary 21-day period for first-time vaccinations.Microchip Reading:
The microchip must be read at the time of rabies vaccination, and the date must be recorded accurately.Tapeworm Treatment:
Make sure you follow the correct timing for tapeworm treatment if traveling to countries that require it.
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Conclusion
The new pet transport requirements from the UK to the EU can be challenging, but with the right knowledge, you can ensure a smooth journey for your pet. The Animal Health Certificate is essential for legal travel, so be sure to plan ahead, schedule vaccinations early, and follow the outlined steps to avoid any issues.
By understanding the requirements and securing the necessary documentation, you and your furry friend will be ready for your next pet shipping journey.
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