The RSPCA is alerting pet owners planning to travel to Europe this summer that significant changes to pet travel rules mean some previously issued documents, including pet passports, may no longer be valid. Without proper planning, families could face cancellations of their trips abroad.
New Requirements for Pet Travel to Europe
Under the updated guidance, residents in Great Britain should no longer use EU-issued pet passports when traveling to the continent. Instead, owners must obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each trip to ensure smooth entry. However, there are no changes for returning to Great Britain, and valid EU pet passports can still be used for re-entry.
RSPCA Advice and Warnings
David Bowles, RSPCA head of public affairs, cautioned that travelers unaware of the rule changes could encounter problems at the border. He emphasized the importance of checking requirements and having correct paperwork, including AHCs and up-to-date vaccinations, to avoid delays or cancellations.
While AHCs remain single-use for EU entry, they can now be used for onward travel within the EU and for returning to Great Britain for up to six months, provided rabies vaccinations are valid. The charity also reminded owners of extra requirements if not traveling with their pet, including written authorization for accompanying persons and a requirement for pets to travel within five days of their owner.
Additionally, new restrictions apply for car travel, with a maximum of five pets per private vehicle for non-commercial EU entry. The RSPCA encourages travelers to verify specific entry requirements of their destination country, as regulations vary among EU member states. Further advice is available on the RSPCA website.
