Pet owners encouraged to contact Vet four months ahead of Brexit

Defra is urging those who wish to travel with their animal immediately after 29 March to consult with a veterinarian as soon as they can.

Defra has issued new advice for pet owners advising them to contact their vet at least four months in advance if they are thinking of travelling with their pet after the Brexit deadline.

Rabies

Those wishing to travel to the EU on 30 March, for example, should discuss requirements with their vet as soon as possible, and before the end of November at the latest.

The requirements include making sure pets are effectively vaccinated against rabies before they travel. This involves having an up-to-date rabies vaccination and a blood test to demonstrate sufficient levels of rabies antibody.

The blood test would need to be carried out a minimum of 30 days after any initial rabies vaccination and a minimum of three months before their travel date. Pet owners will need to talk to their vet about health requirements in good time.

Practical advice

Christine Middlemiss, UK CVO, said: “Today we are giving practical and straightforward advice for people who wish to travel to Europe with their pets after we leave the EU, in the unlikely event of a no deal situation.

“I urge all pet owners who wish to travel immediately after 29 March 2019 to consult with their vet as soon as they can.

“This is about planning ahead to ensure their pet has the correct health protection documented and in place for all possible exit scenarios.”

Concern

BVA president Simon Doherty said: “We are concerned pet travel changes under a no deal Brexit could spark a surge in demand for small animal vets and laboratory capacity to fulfil increased requirements for rabies testing and vaccination at a time when the workforce is already experiencing shortfalls.

”It’s vital the Government engages with the workforce and takes steps to ensure adequate capacity is in place.

”Reinstating vets on the shortage occupation list would make a huge difference at this critical point.”

Article taken from Vet Times