A traveller entering Italy with a dog or cat must have a veterinarian’s certificate (EU pet passport) stating the animal is in good health and has a current rabies vaccination. The pet must also have been fitted with a microchip for identification. The pet passport must be issued by a qualified veterinary surgeon.
For the relevant information please refer to: www.ministerosalute.it, section “cani e gatti” / “viaggiare con gli animali”.
A dog must be on a leash or muzzled when in public.
According to the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), the system that allows pet dogs, cats and ferrets from certain countries to enter the UK without quarantine, the animal must have the following criteria: ■ Fitted with a microchip or tattoo, for identification.
■ Vaccinated against rabies (even if the pet has a current rabies vaccination).
■ Blood tested (by an EU approved laboratory).
■ Issued with an official PETS certificate.
■ Treated, by an approved veterinary surgeon and a certificate obtained, against tapeworm and ticks. Not less than 24 hours and not more than 48 hours prior to leaving Italy and returning to the UK Pets can then enter the UK and avoid the previous need for six months’ quarantine.
However, it should be noted that it is necessary to wait six months after vaccination and a successful blood test result before a pet is entitled to enter the UK under the travel scheme. This is because if a pet is infected before vaccination, it can take up to 6 months for rabies to incubate.
For more information please contact: www.defra.gov.uk, section “pet travel scheme”.
Tel. helpline: 08459 33 55 77.