Pet travel with Kingston Vets

Claire Feltham is our Official Veterinarian here, and as well as having a wealth of experience travelling with her own dog, she is certified by DEFRA to complete Animal Health Certificates (AHC) for travel to Europe, or Export Health Certificates (EHC) for travel further afield. Claire also holds the new OV66 certification, and can complete ID checks for travel to Australia.

Taking your pet abroad can involve longer lead times and more admin than many people think. Before travel, each pet will require an Animal Health Certificate, issued by one of our Vets. They’ll also need a rabies vaccination, at least 21 days before any planned exit from the UK. It can be a wonderful experience to take your pet on holiday, but it is always worth consulting us in plenty of time regarding pet travel arrangements.

Our team has profound knowledge and experience of the pet travel process and how to fulfil the requirements set by DEFRA. Let us help you get your pet ‘fit’ and ready to travel, whilst minimising the stress involved

2026 EU Rules on Pet Travel

From 22 April 2026, new EU rules were applied to the non-commercial movement of dogs, cats and ferrets entering the EU from Great Britain. An EU pet passport, issued to or held by a pet owner who is resident in GB, will no longer be a valid document for travelling with pets from GB to the EU.

This applies to EU pet passports issued in an EU Member State or Northern Ireland, including those issued before 22 April 2026. EU pet passports may only be issued to owners whose main residence is within the European Union.

GB residents travelling to the EU with a pet dog, cat or ferret will need to obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) for travel from 22 April 2026, in the 10 days before travel.

This only applies to travel INTO the EU, if you are currently abroad with your pet there is no need to be concerned as there are no changes to GB entry requirements

Please do check out the FAQ’s below and don’t hesitate to contact the surgery if you have any further questions.