Pet Travel Requirements

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Pet Transport: Moving Dogs and Cats Between the UK, EU and Australia

Australia maintains some of the world's strictest pet import requirements, involving mandatory permits, testing, and quarantine.

1

UK to Australia: Transporting Dogs and Cats

Transporting your dog or cat from the UK to Australia requires careful planning to meet strict biosecurity standards for entry.

  • Microchip: An ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip must be implanted before any other pre-export preparations begin.
  • Rabies: Pets must be vaccinated against rabies, followed by a mandatory 21-day waiting period before further testing or travel.
  • Import Permit: You must obtain an official import permit from the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry prior to travel.
  • Health Certificate: An official government-endorsed health certificate is required to verify your pet meets all specific Australian import conditions.
  • Parasite Treatment: Internal and external parasite treatments are strictly required as per the conditions outlined in your specific import permit.
  • Arrival Checks: Upon arrival, your pet will undergo identity verification and biosecurity checks before entering mandatory quarantine at the Mickleham facility.
  • Quarantine: All pets must complete a minimum of 10 days in the government-approved quarantine facility in Mickleham upon arrival.
  • Guidance: Rules change frequently and should be confirmed with your vet and the official authorities on both sides before booking travel.
2

Australia to the UK: Bringing Dogs and Cats to Great Britain

Bringing your dog or cat from Australia to Great Britain involves specific health documentation to ensure a smooth entry process.

  • Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant device to ensure clear identification throughout the journey.
  • Rabies Vaccination: A valid rabies vaccination must be administered, ensuring the pet is protected before entering the United Kingdom.
  • Travel Documents: Pets must carry an official veterinary export or health certificate, as Australia does not issue EU pet passports.
  • Rabies Blood Test: If Australia is not a listed country, a rabies antibody titre test and a three-month wait period may be required.
  • Tapeworm Treatment: Dogs must receive an approved tapeworm treatment administered by a vet between 24 and 120 hours before their scheduled arrival.
  • Quarantine: A compliant pet that meets all health and documentation requirements is not subject to quarantine upon arrival in Great Britain.
  • Guidance: Rules change frequently and should be confirmed with your vet and the official authorities on both sides before booking travel.
3

EU to Australia: Exporting Dogs and Cats

Exporting a dog or cat from the EU to Australia requires following specific third-country import procedures for biosecurity compliance.

  • Microchip: Your pet must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before starting any required vaccinations or health testing.
  • Import Permit: You must secure an import permit from the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry before your pet departs.
  • Export Certificate: An official EU export health certificate must be issued by an authorised veterinarian and endorsed by the relevant competent authority.
  • Rabies Requirements: Pets must be vaccinated against rabies and may require a rabies neutralising antibody titre test depending on the origin.
  • Parasite Treatment: You must administer specific internal and external parasite treatments as mandated by the conditions of your Australian import permit.
  • Carrier Rules: Always check with your chosen transport carrier regarding their specific requirements for pet travel containers and welfare standards.
  • National Extras: Be aware of specific requirements like tapeworm treatment for travel to Ireland, Malta, Finland or Norway if transiting through those countries.
  • Guidance: Rules change frequently and should be confirmed with your vet and the official authorities on both sides before booking travel.

Pet travel rules change without notice. Always confirm the current requirements with your vet and the authorities in Australia before you book, and check the rules for bringing your pet back into the UK.

Transporting a pet to Australia?

Door-to-door collection, paperwork checks before departure and a fixed price confirmed in writing.