What documents do I need to travel abroad with my pet?

• To travel or move to the EU with your pet, you will require an Animal Health Certificate (AHC).  

• An AHC can only be issued by a specially qualified Official Veterinarian (OV).

• We have two OVs at the practice - Libby Smith MRVCS and Farah Stones MRCVS.

• AHCs cannot be used for animals entering the EU for reasons of financial gain, as this is classed as commercial travel e.g. a breeder selling a puppy.  Please contact our OVs at the practice on 01767 627317 if this is the case.

• AHCs are not applicable for countries outside the EU, so please contact our OVs for advice on 01767 627317.

Animal Health Certificates

• To obtain an AHC your pet must be microchipped and have a valid Rabies vaccination, so there may be a 21 day wait before travel. 

• AHCs are only valid for 10 days from the date of issue so it must be issued by an OV within 10 days of your departure date.

• Up to 5 pets can be included on a single AHC.

• AHCs are valid for onward travel in the EU, or back to the UK, for 4 months from the date of issue, provided the Rabies vaccination does not lapse in that time

• AHCs are only valid for a single trip of entry into the EU. Each time you enter the EU from the UK with your pet you will need a new AHC

Requests for an AHC can be submitted to the practice by completing the questionnaire below: