Animal Health Certificate
What is an Animal Health Certificate?
An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is a document that is required for pets travelling to certain countries or returning to the UK. It certifies that your pet is in good health and meets the necessary requirements for travel.
What your pet will need for an Animal Health Certificate:
To obtain an Animal Health Certificate for your pet, you will need to fulfil the following requirements:
- – Microchipping: Your dog, cat, or ferret must be microchipped to ensure proper identification.
- – Rabies Vaccination: Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies. Please note that there is a waiting period of 21 days after the primary vaccination before you can travel.
How do I get an animal health certificate?
To obtain a Health Certificate for your pet, please follow these steps:
- Visit our veterinary clinic with your pet, along with their vaccination and medical records, including proof of rabies vaccination.
- Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old, as they will need to be vaccinated.
- We will provide you with a form that needs to be filled out. This form will include the following information:
- – Pet owner’s details
- – Pet description
- -Existing GB or EU Pet Passport
- – Rabies vaccination details (your pet must be vaccinated at least three weeks prior to the AHC appointment)
- – Rabies blood test (as required)
- – Canine tapeworm treatment (as required)
- – Intended country of entry into the EU
Why does my animal need an AHC?
An AHC is necessary to ensure that your pet meets the health and vaccination requirements of the country you are travelling to. It helps protect both your pet and the destination country from the spread of diseases.
How long does it take to process?
An AHC can only be issued ten days prior to travel. However, it’s essential to plan ahead and consult with us, as certain countries may have additional requirements, such as blood tests and specific treatments. Contact us as soon as possible if you are planning to travel.
How long is the animal health certificate valid?
AHCs are valid for ten days from the date of issue and are intended for a single trip into the EU. After initial entry, the certificate remains valid for onward travel within the EU for four months or until the date of expiry of the validity of the rabies vaccination, whichever is sooner. Additionally, the certificate is valid for re-entry to Great Britain for four months after the date of issue, provided that your pet’s rabies vaccination is kept up-to-date. If you plan on travelling with your pet again after the AHC has expired, you will need to obtain a new certificate before your next trip.
How much do they cost?
Our AHCs cost £220, which includes the examination and all necessary paperwork.
If you’re in need of an Animal Health Certificate, don’t hesitate to get in contact with our team at Rackheath Vets.