What you need to know about taking your pets on holiday from getting a special passport to vaccinations before you go
BRITS who want to take their pets on holiday will need to make sure the animals are eligible to leave the country, as having the wrong documents can cause a number of issues at border control.
But you might also want to think about getting vaccinations for them.
So to help you prepare for your summer break, Sun Online Travel has rounded up everything you need to know when it comes to taking your dog or cat with you.
Do my pets need a passport?
Animals will need to have a special passport if they are going to leave the country, and the type will depend on the country they are travelling to.
The rules around this are in place to stop animal smuggling and the spread of diseases such as rabies.
In Europe, they will need a European pet passport.
A European pet passport is also valid in several listed countries, which include some of the Caribbean islands, the US, and the UAE, according to the .
If you're travelling to countries that are not listed, then you will need to check on their regulations regarding pets.
How do I get a pet passport?
A number of vets in the UK offer this service, and it costs approximately £200.
Pets must be at least 12 weeks old to be taken out of the country.
The passport contains all of the information about your pet, such as a photograph of the pet, who owns the pet and all of their medical history.
It will also need their microchip number and list any rabies vaccinations.
The passport lasts for the life of the pet, as long as the vaccination doesn't lapse.
FUR NO FLYING No Deal Brexit means Brit pets may lose their EU passports and most owners have no idea
Do they need to be vaccinated?
Animals going to EU countries need to have the rabies vaccination.
This must be done more than 21 days before travelling, and be noted in the pet passport.
They must also be treated for tapeworm before returning to the UK, which is often given in the form of a tablet.
If travelling by ferry, many ports will offer this service.
If you're taking a pet that is from the UK to the US, then a vaccination is not needed as it is considered a low-risk country.
What to check before travelling with a pet
The British Veterinary Association advise all pet-owners to check the following before travelling with animals:
1. Book an appointment with your vet at least three weeks before travel to get your pet started on the right medication at the right time. Discuss the countries you intend to travel so that your vet can identify specific health risks to which your pet may be exposed
2. Check that the rabies vaccination and pet passport are up to date
3. Ensure the microchip is working and reading correctly
4. Speak to your vet about preventive treatment needed to protect your dog against ticks, sandflies, heartworm and tapeworm and any other potential parasites or diseases
5. Identify a local vet in the area where you will be holidaying in case of an emergency and to administer (necessary) tapeworm treatment to dogs one to five days before arrival back into the UK
Can my pets travel on a flight or a ferry with me?
Unless they are an assistance or service animal then they will not be allowed in the cabin.
However, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Flybe allow pets into the hold, while easyJet, Ryanair and Jet2 do not allow any animals on their flight even in the hold.
Most animals are allowed onto ferries for a small fee.
for example, it's generally around £25 per pet.
This only applies to vehicle passengers as the animal must remain in the car - foot passengers cannot take their pets.
Do I need pet insurance?
Pet insurance often covers a number of issues when travelling abroad to EU countries or listed countries.
This means the same level of health cover from vets as would be offered in the UK, as well as any cover if the pet is lost, sick, or needs emergency treatment.
However, some insurance policies may not include overseas travel so it is best to check before travelling.
Will a No Deal Brexit affect me travelling with pets?
If the UK leaves the EU without a deal, you should start preparing at least four months before you travel to allow enough time for all of the procedures to be completely.
The European pet passports could become invalid, as the UK will become an unlisted country, meaning it does not follow the current EU regulations.
A hard Brexit scenario would mean pets are only allowed to enter EU countries if they have been blood tested and vaccinated against rabies three months earlier.
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