Vets are well organised and can check if your pet's chip is in place which is crucial for passport identification. If your pet has an old chip, which can’t
be read by, Defra approved machinery, then you can bring your own
reader, or (probably simpler) have the pet chipped again. It's a
good idea to check that your pet's microchip can be read before
you leave, as it could save a lot of heartache and stress on your
return journey.
"I reside in the North of England/Scotland. Why can't I travel via a port nearer to me?"
This is only a trial. Defra have decided to start with the most popular services. Once they are seen to work, then the scheme may be extended in the future.
If you do re-enter the UK via an unauthorised route, but your pet otherwise meets all of the requirements for the Pet Travel Scheme, you will still have to put your pet into quarantine (which means getting the proper paperwork for that before you leave). However, you may not have to keep your pet in quarantine for more than a few days. If you can demonstrate that your pet satisfies all the requirements for the Pet Travel Scheme, you can apply for an early release from quarantine.
"Is there anything else that I should be aware of?"
Defra has dictated that pets will have to be inspected for ticks and parasites by an approved Vet 24 hours before the return trip to the UK. In practice this will mean when you book your tickets your carrier will give you a list of English speaking Vets who can give your pet a quick examination 24 hours before leaving Spain, and supply you with the correct proof of examination.
Most of the problems with the scheme thus far have been with arranging this examination, or with incorrect paperwork. For example, travellers have experienced difficulties when entering Britain from France, where some vets were simply using headed notepaper to verify the 'Ticks and Bugs' examination, instead of the official form. Visit www.PetPlanet.co.uk where you can download a copy of the French 'Ticks and Bugs' form.
"Where do I get further information?"
For more information you should contact either:
The Pet Travel Scheme Helpline on 0870 241 1710;
Your local vet;
Or go to : www.defra.gov.uk
"What about bringing pets from Ireland? "
The regulations on taking pets abroad and re-entry to Ireland are very different to that of the UK. The regulations are currently under legislative review. Irish residents should seek advice from the Department for Agriculture.
"What is the quality of Spanish Veterinary care?
The quality is extremely high. You will find many vets with English speaking staff who provide a 24-hour service.
You should consider taking out health insurance for your pets, as treatment in Spain is expensive. You can expect to pay insurance premiums in the region of €70 for a dog and €50 for a cat.
"Are there any other restrictions we should be aware of? "
Depending on where you live, you may find that the local authority have a Registration ordnance for dogs over 3 months old. We will advise you when you have chosen where you are going to purchase your property.
You should bear in mind when you are viewing properties that the Residents Management Group may have a stipulation prohibiting the keeping of animals. So find out this information before you purchase!
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