Balanced Being Group

We can provide your pets rabies vaccination and pet passport.

Ask Vivien or at reception for further information.

Taking your pet abroad...

Since the introduction of the new style European Pet Passports it has never been easier to take your pet abroad. You can now take your cat, dog or ferret (yes...ferret!) almost anywhere in the European Union with just a simple microchip and rabies vaccination. However, to return to the UK and avoid quarantine, its not so simple but here are some tips to guide you through the process.

Timing is everything and planning well ahead of your intended travel date... (allow 7 months if its a short trip)...will ensure all is well.

What you have to do...

1st...your pet will need a microchip implanted. If your pet has already been 'chipped', you are ahead of the game, otherwise book an appointment with us and we will do that for you.

2nd...your pet needs to be vaccinated against rabies. 30 days after the vaccination has been given, your Pet Passport becomes valid and you can take your pet into Europe but...not back into the UK!... So if you are taking your pet abroad to live you will be OK, farewell...please don't go, we'll miss you!

However for a short stay read on...

3rd...between three and four weeks later a blood sample must be taken to test that the vaccination is OK. You must wait 6 months after this blood sample is taken before you can bring your pet back into the UK. The results take up to 14 days to come back after which we can fully complete the passport. (As long as your pet gets a booster vaccination within 3 years, you do not need to repeat the blood sample again).

Note: Certain countries such as Spain do not fully comply with European law and currently require a rabies vaccination every year. However, this can be done 30 days before travel and will extend the period for which your Pet Passport is valid. Speak with your IVC vet about your travel plans in plenty of time so we can check the latest regulations or click here to visit the DEFRA site for further details.

OK you have the third thing out of the way and you can now travel easily throughout most of Europe with your pet but...one more thing you will have to take care before you return to the UK:

4th...Make a note in your holiday diary between 24 & 48 hours before you are to return to the UK to take your pet to a vet as it must be treated against ticks and tapeworms. Any vet in France or other European country should be able to do this. The vet must stamp the passport to declare this has been done.

Regulations may change from time to time and different countries may apply their own interpretations of requirements. Bottom line is, its not complicated it just takes planning, make an appointment with Vivien at the surgery and IVC will help you plan your pet's travel.