If you are taking your pet on holiday (cats and dogs) these rules apply when bringing them back into Northern Ireland from the European Union and PETS approved Non-European Union countries.
Pets travelling from Northern Ireland must be accompanied by a Pet Passport if travelling to European Union countries and an Export Health Certificate if travelling to any other destination.
The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) allows pet animals to return to Northern Ireland without the need for quarantine, provided all the conditions of the scheme are met (this includes compliance with a vaccination programme prior to leaving Northern Ireland).
All pets landing directly in Northern Ireland must also be accompanied by an import licence which should be obtained prior to entry.
This information is for guidance only. All queries and licence applications should be referred to Veterinary Service (Trade Section), Room 732, Dundonald House, Upper Newtownards Road, Belfast, BT4 3SB, Telephone: 028 9052 4622.
Notes to Editors
1. The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) requires the following steps, and must be completed in this order:
- Have your pet micro-chipped – DARD recommend that the microchip meets ISO standard 11784
- Have your pet vaccinated against rabies – your pet must be at least 3 months old, and have been fitted with a microchip, before it is vaccinated.
- Have your pet blood tested – after the pet has been vaccinated. It must be tested (approximately 1 month after initial vaccination) to be sure the vaccine has given sufficient protection against rabies. Your pet may not re-enter the UK under PETS until six months have passed from the date that the satisfactory blood sample was taken. Pets that re-enter the UK before six months have passed must do so under import licence and spend the remainder of the six months in quarantine.
- Have your pet treated against ticks and tapeworms – this must be done between 24 and 48 hours before being checked in with the approved Transport Company for the return journey.
2. All pets entering the UK under PETS must do so using approved carriers and routes (the current list of which can be found at http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/quarantine/index.htm).
3. Anyone requiring further information should contact DARD’s Veterinary Service Trade Section on 028 9052 4622. You may also wish to consult your Private Veterinary Practitioner.
4. All media queries to DARD Press Office, Tel: 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
