Animal Health Certificates

An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is an official document required for many pet owners travelling with dogs, cats and ferrets from Great Britain to EU countries and certain other destinations with equivalent arrangements. It confirms that your pet meets the relevant health and identification requirements for travel.

Different documentation, such as an Export Health Certificate (EHC), may be required when travelling to countries outside these arrangements. Requirements vary depending on the country you are travelling to and the type of animal travelling.

If you are planning to travel internationally with your pet, you will usually need an Animal Health Certificate issued shortly before departure.

Requirements vary significantly between countries. Some destinations require additional testing, treatments, or documentation that may need to be arranged weeks or even months before departure. We recommend contacting your veterinary practice as early as possible when planning to travel with your pet to ensure sufficient time to meet all requirements.

If your pet has not previously received a rabies vaccination, it's important to plan ahead, as there is a mandatory waiting period before travel is permitted.

Before issuing an Animal Health Certificate, one of our veterinary surgeons will examine your pet, confirm that their microchip is functioning correctly and verify that required vaccinations, including rabies vaccination where applicable, are up to date.

This helps ensure your pet meets the health and identification requirements of the country you are travelling to.

We recommend contacting your veterinary practice as soon as you begin planning your trip.

While some destinations only require straightforward documentation, others may require blood tests, parasite treatments, additional certification or specific waiting periods before travel is permitted. Planning ahead helps avoid last-minute delays and ensures your pet is fully prepared for their journey.