PETS Travel Scheme

Since the government's introduction of the Pet Travel Scheme in February 2000, many of our clients have taken the opportunity to travel abroad with their pets without the need for quarantine on their return to the UK.

In order to travel, your pet must meet the following criteria:

•     A microchip that meets the ISO specification must be implanted.

•     The pet must be vaccinated against rabies.

•     The vaccine must be given after implantation of the microchip.

•     A blood test is performed 3 weeks after the first vaccination.

•     A PETS passport is issued on receipt of a positive blood test result.

•     The PETS passport is valid from 6 months after blood sampling.#

•     The passport will remain valid if regular rabies boosters are given.*

# The pet can travel abroad at any time, but may only return to the UK without quarantine 6 months after the date of blood sampling.

* MacDonald Veterinary Clinic uses  Nobivac rabies vaccine. This product has a UK licence that requires a booster vaccination every 3 years. Some countries, however, specify the need for annual vaccination. We recommend annual vaccination to cover every eventuality. As a further precaution, we post out vaccination reminders 1 month in advance.

When travelling to countries that are not included in the PETS scheme, an export certificate is required. This document is supplied by DEFRA & completed by one of the LVI veterinary surgeons at the clinic.

Should you require any further information about PETS passport requirements or if you have any questions regarding your travel plans, please contact the surgery or use the hyperlinks below.

Remember, always plan for travel well in advance to ensure that all necessary action has been taken to ensure a smooth passage.

useful hyperlinks:        

copyright  2005:  Barry J. MacDonald  BVSc MRCVS,  MacDonald Veterinary Clinic, Cheltenham           ......................... all rights reserved