Getting prepared
Get your pet ready to cross the border
Border staff check four things: microchip, rabies vaccination, a valid travel document and, on the way into Great Britain, tapeworm treatment for dogs. We check every item with you before departure. Below is the checklist per direction, with the official guidance it is based on.
From Great Britain to France or Spain
- 1
Microchip
Fitted before the rabies vaccination. If the chip was fitted afterwards, the vaccination does not count.
- 2
Rabies vaccination
Given at least 21 days before travel and still within its validity. Puppies and kittens can be vaccinated from 12 weeks.
- 3
Animal health certificate (AHC)
Issued by an official veterinarian no more than 10 days before entry into the EU. It stays valid for onward travel within the EU for 4 months. We can arrange it through our partner vet in Kent.
- 4
Tapeworm treatment
Not required for entry into France or Spain.
From France or Spain to Great Britain
- 1
Microchip and rabies vaccination
Same rules as above: chip first, vaccination at least 21 days before travel.
- 2
Travel document
An EU pet passport issued in an EU country, or a GB animal health certificate that is still within its 4 month validity.
- 3
Tapeworm treatment for dogs
Given by a vet between 24 hours and 120 hours (1 to 5 days) before arrival in Great Britain and recorded in the passport or certificate. We plan the vet visit around the crossing time.
- 4
Approved route
Pets must enter through an approved route. Eurotunnel and the Dover ferries are approved for road travel and we book them for you.
What to pack for your pet
- Enough of their usual food for the trip plus two days
- Any medication with clear instructions
- A familiar blanket or toy for the crate
- For cats: a soft fabric carrier for handover
- Passport or AHC, vaccination record and your contact details at both ends
Tell us about your pet
Medical conditions, medication, diet, how they behave with other animals and what calms them down. The more we know, the better we can plan the crates, the stops and the handover.
Not sure your documents are in order?
Send us photos of the passport or certificate with your quote request. We check them for you.