Preparing pets for travel

Start with the rules for your destination

Every country sets its own entry rules for pets, and airlines and ferry companies add their own conditions. Check the official requirements of the country you are travelling to and the transport company before booking, and bring them to your appointment so we can plan the steps together.

Travelling within the European Union

For dogs, cats and ferrets travelling between EU countries, the main requirements are:

• a microchip, implanted before or on the same day as the rabies vaccination;
• a rabies vaccination, given when your pet is at least 12 weeks old;
• a waiting period of 21 days after the first rabies vaccination before travel;
• an EU pet passport, issued by an authorised veterinarian, recording the microchip and vaccination.

Some destinations, including Ireland, Malta, Finland and Norway, also require dogs to be treated for tapeworm 1 to 5 days before arrival, recorded by a vet.

Travelling outside the EU, or coming back

Countries outside the EU, including the United Kingdom, have their own rules. Some require a blood test showing that the rabies vaccine has worked. This test is taken at least 30 days after vaccination, and for some routes a further waiting period of three months applies before entering the EU. This is why planning months ahead matters. Always check the rules for returning to Cyprus as well as for leaving.

A simple timeline

• Three months or more before: check the rules, confirm the microchip reads correctly, give the rabies vaccination and arrange any blood test.
• One month before: get your pet used to its travel crate with short, positive sessions at home.
• One to two weeks before: health check, passport or certificate completed, and parasite treatments up to date.
• 1 to 5 days before arrival: tapeworm treatment for dogs, if your destination requires it.
• Travel day: a light meal a few hours before, a walk, water available and a familiar blanket in the crate.

Comfort and safety on the journey

• Use an airline-approved crate big enough for your pet to stand, turn and lie down.
• Avoid travelling in the hottest part of the day in summer. Many airlines restrict flat-faced breeds such as French bulldogs, pugs and Persian cats because they cope poorly with heat and stress.
• Do not give sedatives unless we have advised them for your pet. Sedation can affect breathing and balance during travel.

This article is general guidance for pet owners. Every pet is different, so ask us about your own pet before changing its care.

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