Pet Travel Advice – Making Pet Travel Simple with Oathall Vets 

Planning a trip abroad with your pet? Whether you’re heading to the EU, Northern Ireland, or further afield, Oathall Vets can guide you through every step of the process. 

International pet travel can seem complicated — but with the right preparation and support, it doesn’t have to be. Our experienced team is here to help you travel confidently and in line with all the legal requirements. 

 What Does My Pet Need to Travel? 

When travelling outside the UK, including Northern Ireland, your pet will usually require: 

  • ✅ A valid Animal Health Certificate (AHC) 
  • ✅ Up-to-date rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel) 
  • ✅ A working microchip 
  • ✅ Tapeworm treatment if returning to the UK from certain countries (e.g. Ireland, Finland, Malta, Norway) 

We’ll guide you through the process based on your destination, travel date, and pet’s medical history. 

For detailed travel rules and regulations for countries other than the EU and Northern Ireland, you can contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA): 

We recommend you do this as soon as possible. 

What Is an Animal Health Certificate? 

An AHC is the official document your pet needs to travel to EU countries and Northern Ireland. It must be: 

  • Issued within 10 days of travel 
  • Completed by an Official Veterinarian (OV) — which we have on-site at Oathall Vets 
  • Used for one single trip, and valid for onward travel in the EU for up to 4 months, and return to the UK, including Northern Ireland 

We’ll help ensure the certificate is filled out correctly and on time. 

When Should I Book an Appointment? 

Please contact us at least a month before your travel date, to allow time for: 

  • Rabies vaccinations (if needed) 
  • Issuing and signing your Animal Health Certificate 
  • Discussing any travel health concerns for your pet 

For Frequent Travellers 

  • It may be more convenient and cheaper to obtain a Pet Passport whilst in the EU or NI that could be used instead of an AHC. 
  • Rabies boosters for Pet Passports will need to be given abroad as UK vets are no longer allowed to make these entries on an EU Pet Passport. 

Why Choose Oathall Vets for Pet Travel? 

  • Experienced, qualified team to issue AHCs 
  • Up-to-date advice on all travel requirements 
  • Calm, caring consultations to minimise stress for you and your pet 
  • Personalised travel timelines 

We’ll make sure you have everything you need — so you can focus on enjoying your trip. 

Ready to Plan? 

Call Oathall Vets today to book a travel consultation and let us take the stress out of preparing for your pet’s journey abroad.