As summer approaches, many families are starting to plan holidays, book European getaways and prepare for road trips abroad. For dog owners, one question often comes up early on, can we take the dog with us?
The good news is yes. Whether you’re dreaming of countryside walks in France, coastal breaks in Spain or exploring somewhere completely new together, travelling with your dog from the UK to Europe is still very achievable with the right preparation.
While pet travel rules have changed since Brexit, most of the process is straightforward once you understand what’s needed before you travel. Here is a guide to preparing your dog for travel to Europe, including the vaccinations, paperwork and checks you’ll need before setting off…
Can you still take your dog to Europe from the UK?
Yes, dogs can still travel from the UK to EU countries, but most pets now need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) instead of an EU pet passport. This applies to dogs, cats and ferrets travelling from England, Scotland and Wales into the EU.
An AHC will allow for 1 entry into the EU and back into England.
If you are travelling with other pets, such as rabbits, birds or reptiles, the requirements can vary depending on the country you’re visiting, so it’s always worth checking in advance.
What does your dog need before travelling?
Before travelling to Europe, there are a few important legal requirements your dog must meet…
A microchip
Your dog must be microchipped before receiving their rabies vaccination. The microchip links your pet to their travel documents and their rabies and acts as permanent identification throughout the journey.
If your dog was vaccinated against rabies before being microchipped, the vaccine will not be accepted for travel purposes.
A rabies vaccination
Rabies vaccination is required for travel to the EU. If it’s your dog’s first rabies vaccination or the previous vaccination has run out, there is normally a waiting period (currently 3 weeks) before they can travel, so it’s important to plan ahead rather than leave things until the last minute.
Dogs must be over the age of three months to be vaccinated against Rabies.
Booster vaccinations also need to stay up to date throughout your trip.
An Animal Health Certificate
An Animal Health Certificate is now the main document UK pet owners need for travel to the EU. It must be completed by an Official Veterinarian (OV) shortly before you travel.
The certificate confirms that your pet:
- Is microchipped
- Has a valid rabies vaccination
- Meets EU travel requirements
Once issued, the certificate is generally valid for entry into the EU and onward travel within the EU for up to four months, provided your pet’s rabies vaccination remains valid.
Our team at St Kitts can guide you through the process and provide an Animal Health Certificate to help ensure everything is in place before you travel.
Returning to the UK with your dog
Before returning to Great Britain, dogs must normally receive tapeworm treatment from a vet between 24 and 120 hours before arriving back in the UK.
This treatment must be recorded correctly in your paperwork. Missing this step can lead to delays at the border, so it’s a good idea to arrange the appointment before you travel.
Speak to your vet if your trip to the EU is under one day.
Common pet travel mistakes
The most common issues we see are usually linked to timing. Many travel requirements work within strict deadlines, particularly around rabies vaccinations and issuing the Animal Health Certificate.
Other common mistakes include:
- Rabies vaccinations expiring before travel
- Incorrect microchip details
- Missing tapeworm treatment records
- Assuming old EU pet passports are still valid for UK residents
Preparing early helps avoid unnecessary stress closer to departure.
Helping your dog travel comfortably
Every dog reacts differently to travelling. Some love the adventure, while others can feel anxious during long journeys.
A few simple steps can make travel easier for your pet:
- Bring familiar bedding or toys
- Pack enough food and water for the journey
- Plan regular breaks if travelling by car
- Avoid feeding a large meal immediately before travel
If your dog is nervous or travelling abroad for the first time, it can also help to book a pre-travel check-up with your vet for advice and reassurance.
Need help preparing for EU pet travel?
Travelling to Europe with your dog doesn’t have to feel complicated. With the right preparation and veterinary support, most pets travel safely and comfortably every day.
At St Kitts, our team can help with microchipping, vaccinations and Animal Health Certificates for EU travel so you can travel with confidence.
If you’re planning a trip to Europe with your dog, we recommend booking your appointment early to allow enough time for vaccinations, paperwork and travel checks before departure. Get in touch with your local practice today:
St Kitts Vets Hartley Wintney: 01252 844044
St Kitts Vets Basingstoke: 01256 844944
Crookham Park Veterinary Centre: 01252 913990
Firgrove Veterinary Centre: 01252 877799
Frequently asked questions
What does my dog need to travel from the UK to Europe?
Most dogs travelling from the UK to Europe will need a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination and an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). We can help with both microchipping appointments and Animal Health Certificates for EU travel before your trip.
How long before travelling should my dog have a rabies vaccination?
If it’s your dog’s first rabies vaccination, they usually need to wait at least 21 days before travelling to Europe. It’s always best to plan ahead so there’s enough time to organise everything before your departure date.
Does my dog need tapeworm treatment before coming back to the UK?
Yes, most dogs returning to Great Britain from Europe need tapeworm treatment from a vet before returning home. This treatment must usually be given between 24 and 120 hours before arriving back in the UK and recorded in your dog’s travel paperwork.
For more information about diseases abroad, please visit the Government website.
