You need to acquire an Export Health Certificate (EHC) for your pet if you are travelling from Great Britain to anywhere outside Europe.

The requirements to get an Export Health Certificate vary widely, and can include vaccinations, blood tests, import permits, internal parasites treatment, external parasites treatment, legislation at the embassy and pre-quarantine checks.

If you don’t follow these requirements exactly, there is a risk your pet may be denied entry into the country or will have to undergo quarantine upon arrival.

What else does my pet need to qualify for an Export Health Certificate?

To qualify for an EHC , your pet will need to meet several health and documentation requirements based on the destination country’s import rules.

The typical basic requirements are:
– Microchip
– Vaccinations – most countries require up to date rabies vaccination. Some countries may also require additional vaccines (ie distemper or leptospirosis)
– Heath check – a vet must examine your pet shortly before travel to confirm that they are fit to fly and free from contagious diseases
– Parasite treatments – some destinations require treatment for internal and external parasites within a specific timeframe before travel
– Blood tests – certain countries (ie Australia, New Zealand) may require rabies antibody titration tests
– Import permits – you may  need to obtain an import permit from the destination country
– Embassy legislation – in some cases the EHC must be legalised by the destination country’s embassy
– Quarantine clearance – if the country requires quarantine, you may need to book and confirm arrangements in advance.

What is an Export Health Certificate?

An EHC is an official document required when taking your pet from the UK to a country outside of the EU. It certifies that your pet is healthy, free from contagious diseases, and meets the specific entry requirements of your destination country.

How do I acquire an Export Health Certificate?

You need to contact an Official Veterinarian. Here at Station House Vets, Vicky and Lucy are both qualified OV’s and can guide you through the specific requirements for your destination.

You need to start the application process via GOV.UK to register on the EHC Online system. You will need to sign in with your Government Gateway credentials, and you will need to provide your contact details and assign Vicky or Lucy as your certifider.

You also need to schedule an inspection with our vet to meet and inspect your pet so the certificate can be completed.

When should I start the process of an Export Health Certificate?

It is best to start planning early to ensure a smooth process. We have assisted in the travel of many pets joining their families on summer and winter vacations as well as the export of dogs and cats to far away destinations such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Japan to name a few, mainly for families emigrating.

How long is the Export Health Certificate valid for?

Once the EHC is created it is valid for:
– entry into the destination country within 10 days from the date of certification by a vet
– one single trip
– up to 4 months of onward travel

For longer stays or multiple trips, you’ll need a new certificate each time.

For more information see https://www.gov.uk/taking-your-pet-abroad