Where are you traveling?
Each country will have different criteria for travel. Make sure you research your destination and its requirements — especially if you need a pet passport or similar documentation.
How are you traveling with your pet?
Car, boat, train, plane… all may have different requirements for travel.
Are you using an external transport agency for your pet?
Do you have a suitable carrier for transportation? It must be large enough, secure, and suitable for your destination’s climate.
When traveling by car or train, schedule regular stops for your pet to stretch their legs and toilet.
Is your pet an anxious traveler?
There are options available to help reduce stress when traveling, including medication. Please speak to your vet in Ledbury to discuss options.
Travel documents
When traveling from the UK into EU countries (and some listed non-EU countries), pets require an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) – this has replaced the older pet passport system. Ledbury Park Vets, your trusted vet in Ledbury, has two qualified official veterinarians who can certify AHCs.
Requirements for AHC:
Microchip
In-date rabies vaccination – If a rabies vaccination has not been administered before, then it must be given 21 days before the AHC is issued.
Worming tablet – Some countries require this before entry and ALL pets will need worming before returning to the UK. This must be witnessed and signed in the AHC by a vet in your country of departure.
The AHC can be issued up to 10 days before travel and is valid for 4 months for single trips. Please give your vet in Ledbury plenty of notice!
See the DEFRA website for further information.
Although not a requirement, we recommend your pet is up to date with their annual vaccines to reduce the risks of infectious diseases.
What to pack
We recommend flea and tick prevention before travel to prevent infestations and reduce disease risk.
Consider Sandfly protection when traveling to the Mediterranean. Sandflies carry Leishmania, which is zoonotic (transmissible to humans). Not all standard parasite products repel Sandflies, so check this with your vet in Ledbury. Some available examples:
Seresto® collars (8-month protection)
Advantix® spot-on (Give fortnightly for Sandfly)
It’s a good idea to pack a pet first aid kit – just in case! Including:
Bandage material
Tick remover
Antibacterial wash
Eye wash / saline
Pet Suncream
Buster collar
Remember to research veterinary clinics in your destination in the event of emergencies!
Finally, if you’re going somewhere hot, please take precautions in the heat. Walk during the coolest parts of the day and avoid hot pavements. Ensure there’s plenty of drinking water and if your pet is showing signs of heat stroke, soak them in cool water and call the nearest vets.
SAFE TRAVELS!
Ledbury Park Vets, your reliable vet in Ledbury, is always available for travel advice, pet passport queries, and anything else you need to make your pet’s journey safe and smooth.
