Bringing your pet dog or cat to Great Britain The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) allows pet dogs, cats and ferrets to enter the UK without quarantine as long as they comply with the regulations. It also allows pet owners in the UK to take their dogs, cats and ferrets to other European countries and then return with them without need for quarantine. Further information on the scheme can be found on the official DEFRA web site For dogs, cats and ferrets entering the UK from any European or “listed” third country the key difference is that the current requirement to carry out a rabies blood test followed by a four-month wait before entry into the UK is no longer be required. Eligibility Dogs, cats and pet ferrets can enter or return to Great Britain if it has been: Microchipped – make sure your details are correct and updated on the microchip. Has a pet passport or health certificate. Vaccinated against rabies – your pet will need a blood test if you’re travelling from a country that is not listed. You must use an approved route, unless you’re travelling within the UK or from Ireland. You need to complete a declaration if you are not going to sell or transfer the ownership of your pet. Dogs must also usually have a tapeworm treatment. Your pet may be put into quarantine for up to 4 months if you do not follow these rules or have been refused entry if you travelled by sea. Checklist Check if you can bring your pet Get your pet microchipped – check the rules for microchips Get your pet vaccinated against rabies – check the rules about rabies vaccinations. You must wait for a set period of time after vaccination before you can travel. Depending on the country you’re travelling from, you might also need to get a blood test. Get a tapeworm treatment. If you have a dog, you may also need to get tapeworm treatment before you travel – check the rules about tapeworm treatment. Get a pet travel document – check which travel document you need Banned dog breeds If you bring a banned breed of dog into the UK it can be taken away from you by the police or local authorities and could be destroyed. Taking your pet abroad There’s different guidance if you’re taking your pet dog, cat or ferret abroad. Check if you need to follow extra rules You must follow extra rules (known as Balai rules) if any of the following apply: you’re going to sell, rehome or transfer the ownership of the animal your pet is arriving more than 5 days before or after you arrive you’re bringing more than 5 animals and are not attending or training for a competition, show or sporting event Make sure your pet is protected with Lifetime cover As part of our Lifetime Pet Insurance, Travel Cover is included which allows to take your pet abroad. Get a Pet Protect Insurance Quote. Pet care advice when you need it the most. If your pet is unwell our 24/7 advice service may help save you an unnecessary trip to the vet. Speak to a vet or vet nurse by phone, chat, and video. Our pet care service also offers behavioural and nutritional support, to help you take care of your pet. Learn more about our petconnect service