What are the laws about travelling abroad with my pet?

We all love (and need) a holiday sometimes, and pampered pets are no exception. However, if you’re hoping to take your kitty or canine companion abroad this year, you’ll need to be up to date with the new laws about travelling abroad with your pet.

Understanding the new regulations will ensure a happy journey for you and your four-legged friend, and you can concentrate on making sure that your little pal is decked out in fashion forward gear and travel accessories.

Under the new Pet Travel Scheme, pets will no longer need to be quarantined in order to return to the UK from any EU countries and non-EU countries listed in the scheme, as long as they are microchipped, vaccinated for rabies 21 days before re-entering the UK and have relevant documentation (pet passport).

There is no longer a mandatory requirement for tick treatment on returning dogs, but tapeworm treatment is required within five days of the return and no less than 24 hours before. If your pet will be returning to the UK from unlisted non-EU countries, a blood test should be taken at least 30 days after vaccination before you leave for the unlisted country, and marked on your pet passport, in order to avoid a three month waiting period when returning.

To keep up to date with laws on travelling with your pets, information is available on the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) website, so keep checking back for any developments. Information on export requirements relevant to your destination country can also be found by contacting the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency, and you may want to seek your vet’s advice before setting off.

While on your relaxing break, it’s also important to bear in mind your cuddly companion’s comfort in transit. A great way to carry your pet in style is a travel box, like this Pet Transporter from our range. With a compact, zip-up design, this on-trend travel box comes complete with a removable shoulder strap for longer journeys.

You might also want to kit out your travel box with a cosy travel blanket. As well as providing warmth and comfort, a travel blanket might soothe nervous pets that dislike being confined. Our adorable pink Double Heart Snug Rug travel blanket is suitable for both cats and dogs, and is perfect for use in the car or on a sofa. Additionally, if you’re hiring a car or taking your own, it’s a good idea to bring some seat covers for driving to protect your seats from dust, dirt and any untimely accidents!

Finally, don’t forget your pet passport – it can be easy to forget if you’re preoccupied with looking after your own, but it really is essential documentation. If you’re planning on taking your pet abroad with you, it’s well worth sorting out your pet travel arrangements a couple of months in advance to make the journey as stress-free as possible.