If you are planning your own National Lampoodles European Vacation, Nicola Scott has all the tips for happy campers
Thanks to the Pet Travel Scheme (a system that allows your pet to move between EU countries without having to spend time in quarantine) you can take your menagerie on holiday as long as they have the necessary documentation. So if you’re ready to hit the Autobahn of Germany, cobbled streets of Spain or the toll roads of France, here’s what you need.
First things first, to enter France from the UK your pet must be over 12 weeks old and be microchipped (compulsory since April 2016). Presuming this is already the case you can use your local vet to get the passport. Your vet will vaccinate your travel companion against rabies and complete all the relevant sections before giving it a stamp of approval. The passport itself can be turned around fairly quickly, but you are unable to travel until 21 days after the rabies vaccination has been given, so allow yourself plenty of time.
At the port, your pet’s passport will be checked like yours, only you’ll be handed a microchip gun to scan over him to check the numbers match. They can be pretty hot on this so make sure details are correct – Calais is not the place to discover there’s a digit missing.
If you’re taking your dog away with you, he must be treated for tapeworm 24 hours to five days before you re-enter the UK. This has to be given and verified by a vet, so it will save you a whole heap of hassle if you source a veterinary practice before you go.
Simple huh? Well, yes but there are a few very important considerations to think about. Let’s start with bugs.
Foreign diseases transmitted by biting insects and ticks can easily be spread topets, so make sure you research your destination and take the necessary precautions. For example, if you’re going to southern Europe it may be advisable to get a Scalibor collar and Advantix flea treatment to protect your dog against leishmaniasis, a disease spread by female sand flies. Currently, being up to date with flea and worming treatment isn’t a legal requirement to travel, but it’s strongly recommended.
Other considerations are climate, the disruption to his routine, food, mode of travel and journey. How will he cope with crossing the Bay of Biscay? Or being in the hold of a ferry by himself? There are products that can help calm your pet’s nerves and ease his seasickness. Speak to your vet if you’re worried.
A final word of warning: rules can and do change. Always check with the authorities in your country of destination to make sure there are no hidden surprises.
Check list…
1) Check your pet insurance is valid overseas. If not, you might be able to extend the cover by paying an additional premium. If you can’t you’ll have to buy special travel insurance.
2) Research your channel crossing options. Different ferries have different pet travel policies. Some require your pet to stay in the boot of the car for the duration of the crossing; others have pet-friendly cabins with access to an exercise area.
3) Load up on his usual food to minimise the risk of stomach issues. If your pet is prone to diarrhoea it may be worth taking some Pro-Kolin+ (a gastrointestinal supplement) with you.
4) Don’t leave home without his favourite blankie or bed. Also take sheets, so if your furry friend is accustomed to sleeping on the furniture he won’t leave any telltale signs.
5) Take two name tags with your mobile number and a ‘+44’ prefix and two leads.
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