Animal health certificates, pet passports and taking dogs abroad

The rules on taking your dog to EU countries changed in 2021. Find out what you need in order to take your dog abroad.

black puppy held by a vet for article on pet passports

Overview

The rules on travelling with your dog to EU countries such as France, Spain, Germany, Portugal, Ireland, Italy and the Netherlands changed in 2021. Pet passports issued in the UK are no longer valid, and dog owners must now meet specific criteria. Your dog needs to:

be microchipped
have a valid rabies vaccination
be treated for tapeworm if you're travelling to Ireland, Northern Ireland, Finland, Norway or Malta
have an animal health certificate (AHC)

Travelling with a dog to countries outside of the EU

What are animal health certificates?

How long does an animal health certificate last?

What is the cheapest animal health certificate near me?

What information is on an animal health certificate?

Timeline for going to an EU country with your dog

What else do I need to do before taking dogs abroad?

What are the main pet parasite risks in Europe?

Medically reviewed by Lizzie Youens BSc(Hons) BVSc MRCVS

Published on 28/10/2022 • Reviewed on 25/04/2024