Pet passports

The Pet travel scheme (also known as 'pet passport' or 'PETS') enables travellers to bring either cats or dogs abroad to countries that participate in the scheme. The application process may be lengthy, so remember to apply several months before you plan to travel.

How can I get a passport for my pet?

An information pack can be obtained from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

There is no application form to complete and the actual 'passport' is a certificate issued by your vet. You will need to complete the following

1. Check that the country you plan to visit takes part in the scheme

Some countries that take part in the scheme have extra requirements that you must comply with.

You must check the regulations on the DEFRA website.

2. Microchip your pet

Your pet must be microchipped for identification before any other PETS procedures can be carried out. Ask your local vet for advice about microchipping.

3. Vaccinations

Your pet will need a vaccination against rabies. This can usually be done at a routine appointment - your vet can advise you about this.

4. Blood tests

30 days after the rabies vaccination, your pet should have a blood test to prove that it has a good defence level against rabies.

5. Certificate

The pet passport certificate will be issued by your vet if the blood tests show the rabies vaccination was successful.

What happens when I return home to the UK?

1. Make sure your pet travels via an approved route. More information about approved routes is available from DEFRA.

2. Go to a vet 24/48 hours before you are due to depart. The vet must treat your pet against tapeworm and ticks and issue you with an official certificate.

3. You must sign a declaration to state that your pet has not been outside the PETS qualifying country.

Which countries take part in the pet passport scheme?

The countries currently participating in the scheme are listed below, but you must check this is still the case before you travel. Current information is available from the DEFRA website.

• Andorra
• Australia
• Austria
• Canada
• Denmark
• Falkland Islands
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Gibraltar
• Greece
• Iceland
• Italy
• Japan
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Monaco
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Portugal
• Singapore
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• U.S.A.
• Vatican