As part of the new trade agreement between the UK and the EU, cats and dogs travelling from the UK will no longer need expensive animal health certificates for each journey.
Following Brexit, travelling from the UK to the EU with a pet required an animal health certificate issued by an official State vet in the country of departure no more than 10 days before the pet’s arrival in the EU. While the certificate remained valid four months for forward travel in other EU countries and for re-entry in the UK, each pet needed a new animal health certificate for each trip – while the pet passport remained valid throughout the pet’s life.
As part of the new agreement, pet owners will be allowed to travel more easily with their animals. Dog and cat owners will no longer need a new health certificate for each trip, reducing red tape for travelling to Northern Ireland and the EU.
“We hope this change is implemented as soon as possible for the summer holiday period”
The RSPCA has welcomed a new agreement between the UK and the EU, calling it a positive step for animal welfare.
David Bowles, Head of Public Affairs at the RSPCA, said, “We welcome this new UK/EU agreement as it includes a number of benefits that are good news for the welfare of animals. People who want to travel with their family pet will no longer need a pet passport to travel to Northern Ireland – and do not need to renew it each time they travel to the EU; meaning there’s less red tape in enjoying the companionship of your animal on holiday. We hope this change is implemented as soon as possible for the summer holiday period.”
Under the deal, the UK’s ban on the export of live animals will remain in place. The agreement also confirms that the UK will not import animal products failing to meet the country’s animal health standards, such as chlorinated chicken and hormone beef.
The agreement also allows the UK to negotiate opt-outs for future discussions. This includes the planned import ban on animal fur products due for debate in Parliament, and the puppy import ban currently progressing through Parliament.
