Pet Documentation
It's essential to familiarize yourself with the pet documentation requirements specific to the country you're heading to, as these can vary widely depending on your destination.
Ensuring your documentation is accurate and complete is crucial; any errors could potentially delay your travel plans.
For all international journeys (excluding domestic flights), we request copies of all relevant pet documents before your departure. In some cases, your destination’s local authorities may need to pre-approve this documentation.
Your Pre-Flight Checklist:
- Is your pet’s breed accepted in the country you’re traveling to?
- Has your pet been in a rabies-free or low-risk rabies country for the past six months?
- Have you thoroughly reviewed and met all the specific entry requirements of your destination?
Flying to the EU:
- Obtain an endorsed EU Health Certificate, issued within 10 days of travel, and endorsed by the authorities in the country you’re departing from.
It's essential to familiarize yourself with the pet documentation requirements specific to the country you're heading to, as these can vary widely depending on your destination.
Ensuring your documentation is accurate and complete is crucial; any errors could potentially delay your travel plans.
For all international journeys (excluding domestic flights), we request copies of all relevant pet documents before your departure. In some cases, your destination’s local authorities may need to pre-approve this documentation.
Your Pre-Flight Checklist:
- Is your pet’s breed accepted in the country you’re traveling to?
- Has your pet been in a rabies-free or low-risk rabies country for the past six months?
- Have you thoroughly reviewed and met all the specific entry requirements of your destination?
Flying to the EU:
- Obtain an endorsed EU Health Certificate, issued within 10 days of travel, and endorsed by the authorities in the country you’re departing from.
- Complete an Anti-Echinococcus/Tapeworm treatment within 24-120 hours before arrival, with the treatment recorded in the endorsed EU Health Certificate (required only for Dublin, Ireland).
- Have a current rabies certificate with your pet's microchip number. If your pet is in the second or third year of its rabies vaccine, ensure you have previous rabies vaccination certificates to show continuous coverage.
- Provide documentation that proves the date of your pet's microchip scan/implant.
For more information, visit https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/carry/animal-plant/index_en.htm#inline-nav-4
Flying to the UK:
- Secure an endorsed GB Health Certificate, issued within 10 days before travel and endorsed by the authorities of the country you’re departing from.
- Ensure your pet has completed an Anti-Echinococcus/Tapeworm treatment within 24-120 hours prior to arrival. This treatment must be documented in the endorsed GB Health Certificate.
- Provide a current rabies certificate that includes your pet’s microchip number. If your pet is in the second or third year of its rabies vaccination, make sure to have previous rabies vaccination certificates that demonstrate continuous coverage, as customs may ask for this proof.
- Provide documentation confirming the date of your pet's microchip scan/implant.
For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/bring-pet-to-great-britain
Flying to UAE:
- Make sure your pet’s annual vaccinations are current.
- Travel with original health certificates, including vaccination records.
- Ensure your pet is microchipped with an ISO-compatible chip.
- Verify that your pet was vaccinated for rabies at least 21 days before your flight.
- Obtain an import permit for the UAE, valid for 30 days.
- Confirm your dog’s vaccinations for:
- Distemper
- Hepatitis
- Parvovirus
- Leptospirosis
Within 24 hours of departure:
- Have an official veterinarian assess your pet to confirm they’re fit to fly.
- Have the vet complete the DEFRA export health certificate.
- Treat your pet for endo and ectoparasites and obtain the necessary certificate.
For more information, visit https://www.moccae.gov.ae/en/services/export-import-services/import-permit-pets.aspx
Our Recommendation:
To ensure a smooth travel experience, we strongly suggest partnering with a reputable pet travel agency. We can recommend several trusted EU-based companies that have successfully assisted many of our customers in meeting all necessary entry requirements.