What paperwork does my dog need for the EU?
On this page
A dog travelling from Great Britain to the EU normally needs an animal health certificate signed by an official veterinarian. To issue it, the vet needs evidence of the dog's microchipping date and vaccination history; the dog must have an up-to-date rabies vaccination.
Arrange the certificate for each trip
GOV.UK says a new animal health certificate is needed each time a pet travels from Great Britain to the EU. The certificate must be obtained before entry and is valid for entry for 10 days from issue, with the issue date counted as day one.
After entry, the same certificate can cover onward travel within the EU and re-entry to Great Britain for the periods stated in the official guidance. Check the return conditions rather than assuming the outward certificate is the only requirement.
Use an official veterinarian
The certificate must be signed by an official veterinarian. Ask the practice whether it can issue animal health certificates and give it time to check the microchip and rabies records.
GOV.UK also tells travellers to check whether their dog needs tapeworm treatment and to use an approved traveller's point of entry. The treatment requirement depends on the route and return journey.
Coordinate paperwork and booking
Confirm that the ferry, train or other operator accepts pets on the chosen service and what check-in process it uses. The operator's booking rules do not replace the government health requirements, and the government certificate does not itself reserve a pet place.
Carry the original documents where they can be presented without unpacking the whole car. Recheck the microchip number, vaccination record, certificate and booking details before leaving home.