At last, some positive news for pet parents who enjoy European getaways with their four-legged companions. As of May 2025, the UK and EU have agreed to reintroduce the very much more favoured EU Pet Passport for British pet owners. This change will replace the expensive and inconvenient Animal Health Certificate (AHC) and make travelling with pets across the Channel significantly easier, and cheaper.
If you’re a countryside homeowner planning to take your pooch to Provence or your cat to the Costa Brava, here’s everything you need to know about the new rules, timelines, and how to prepare.
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From Brexit to Bureaucracy
Since Brexit, we've heard from so many pet owners across the Cotswolds, Wiltshire, Dorset and Devon stressing about how they have had to jump through hoop after hoop to take their pets abroad. The requirement for an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for each trip was not only costly (typically £100–£250 per trip), but also logistically stressful. Each AHC had to be issued within 10 days of travel and was only valid for one EU trip within a 4-month window.
This temporary system added pressure on vets, caused no end of stress for travellers, and was an admin minefield, especially for those who enjoy spontaneous travel, or have last minute plans.
What’s Changing?
The new EU Pet Passport scheme is a return to the pre-Brexit system and includes:
✅ A lifetime-valid document, provided your pet’s rabies vaccination stays up to date
✅ One-off cost, replacing repeated vet visits and certificates
✅ Fewer last-minute appointments with the vet before travel
✅ Greater freedom and peace of mind for frequent travellers
This means no more rushing to the vet for every holiday and a smoother, cheaper process for taking your pets abroad.
But here’s the catch: As of late May 2025, the government has yet to announce the exact start date for the new scheme. So, for now, the AHC process remains in place.
What You Need to Do Right Now
Even though we’re not quite there yet, savvy pet owners can start preparing today. Here's how:
1. Check Your Pet's Microchip and Rabies Vaccination
Your pet must be microchipped and have an up-to-date rabies vaccination. If your pet's rabies jab is out of date, you’ll need to wait 21 days post-vaccination before travelling. Book in now with your vet to avoid any delay.
👉 Rabies Vaccination Guidelines – Dogs Trust
2. Keep Using AHCs for Now
Until the pet passport scheme is fully operational, you’ll still need an Animal Health Certificate for travel. Plan early, especially if you’re travelling during summer, as vet appointments will book up quickly
3. Talk To Your Vet About Pet Passports
Ask if your vet is likely to be authorised to issue EU pet passports. Not all vets will be eligible right away, and some might need additional certifications or partnerships with EU-based practices.
4. Prepare Travel Kits and Documents
Organise your travel documents and pet essentials:
- Vaccination records
- Microchip details
- Tapeworm treatment records (required for Ireland, Norway, Finland, and Malta)
- EU pet passport (once issued)
Pack a separate folder for your pet’s documents—handy at borders or if flying.
Seasonal Considerations for Pet Travel
Summer travel requires extra care. Hot weather, crowded transit stations, and busy ferries can stress even the most seasoned pet travellers. Plan ahead:
- Avoid midday travel where heatstroke is a risk
- Book pet-friendly accommodations
- Use cool mats or fans for comfort
- Keep emergency vet numbers in your EU destination on hand
If you’re planning a longer trip, consider whether your pets would be better off staying home with a professional house sitter. Many countryside pets, especially cats and older dogs, thrive in familiar surroundings.
Book A House Sitter Instead
Until the EU Pet Passport scheme is fully implemented, planning ahead is key. Double-check your pet’s vaccinations, secure timely vet appointments, and stay informed via official channels.
If you’d rather your pets stayed safely at home while you enjoy your travels, we’re here to help. At A-Breed-Apart and our sister company, Running Duck Pet Services, we specialise in caring for rural pets and properties. Whether you’re away for a weekend or a month, we ensure your animals stay happy and healthy in their own environment.
Complete this short Enquiry Form to book a consultation and let’s get your next sit sorted.
Related Reads
How to Keep Your Pets Happy While You’re Away
Essential Checklist for Homeowners Hiring a House Sitter
Pet Travel Essentials: Must-Have Gear for Happy Pets
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