Planning to travel with your pet? We’re here to help make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
At Bishopton Vets, a number of our veterinary team hold Official Veterinarian (OV) status. This means we are authorised to complete Animal Health Certificates (AHCs) and other documentation required for pet travel.
Please contact us as early as possible before you travel.
Some destinations require preparation weeks - or even months - in advance.
It is the pet owner’s responsibility to ensure all entry and return requirements are met for:
• Your destination country
• Any onward travel
• Your return to Great Britain (if applicable)
For the most up-to-date guidance, visit: www.gov.uk/taking-your-pet-abroad
Travelling to an EU Country
To travel to Europe, your pet must:
• Be microchipped
• Be vaccinated against rabies (pet must be at least 12 weeks old)
• Wait 21 days after the rabies vaccination before travel (Day 1 is the day after vaccination)
• Have an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued by an Official Veterinarian
Important Information...
The AHC is valid for:
• Entry into the EU within 10 days of issue
• Onward travel within the EU for up to 4 months
• Re-entry into Great Britain within those 4 months
From 22nd April 2026 pet passports issued in the EU are no longer valid for travel to the EU.
Tapeworm Treatment (Dogs Only)
Dogs must receive tapeworm treatment if travelling directly to: Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Norway & Malta
Returning to Great Britain
Before returning to Great Britain, dogs must receive tapeworm treatment:
• Given between 1 and 5 days (24–120 hours) before return
• Administered by a vet
• Contain praziquantel
• Be recorded, signed and stamped by the treating vet
You do not need tapeworm treatment if returning directly from: Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Malta or Norway.
For short trips, this treatment can sometimes be given before you leave the UK - our team can advise.
Travelling to Northern Ireland
You will need a Pet Travel Document (PTD).
• Your pet must be microchipped
• PTDs are free and applied for online via the Government website
• Rabies vaccination is not required
• Tapeworm treatment is not required
We strongly recommend up-to-date flea, tick and worm treatment for all travel.
Travelling Outside the EU (Rest of the World)
Travel requirements vary significantly between countries. Some destinations require:
• Blood tests
• Import permits
• Specific documentation
• Advance preparation of up to 8 months
We recommend researching requirements well in advance. Many owners choose to use a specialist pet travel company to help manage the process.
If you prefer to arrange travel yourself, you will usually need:
• An Export Health Certificate (EHC)
• An Export Application Form (EXA)
We are able to carry out required health checks, tests and complete the necessary documentation.
How We Can Help
When you contact us, we will:
• Confirm your destination and travel dates
• Check your pet’s microchip and vaccination status
• Advise on any waiting periods
• Book the appropriate appointments
• Complete and sign the necessary documentation
Please contact the practice as soon as you begin planning your trip so we can ensure everything is in place in time for travel.