Introduction
Under the Rabies (Importation of Dogs, Cats and other Mammals) Order 1974 (as amended), all domestic dogs and cats must undergo six months quarantine on arrival into Great Britain. Entry will not be granted unless an import licence has been obtained from the Animal Health Agency, Rabies Operations Branch, Government Buildings, Beeches Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 2RU. (Telephone:01245 358383; email: quarantine@animalhealth.gsi.gov.uk )
Irrespective of whether an animal is entering Great Britain through a port or airport in Scotland or England, your application should be submitted to the Animal Health Office in Chelmsford, who can also supply you with an application form.
Pet Travel Scheme
The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) has recently been introduced in Scotland to allow cat and dog owners to bring their pets into Britain from certain qualifying countries without entering quarantine, providing they comply with certain regulations.Please use the left hand menu to find more information.
Commercially Traded Dogs and Cats
New regulations were introduced on 1 July 1994 for commercially traded dogs and cats entering the UK from other European Union countries. Please use the left hand menu to find more information.
Additional guidance Has been published to assist carriers (e.g. ferry operators, airlines, railway companies) to care for and protect the welfare of pet animals during journeys to and from Great Britain. Although primarily directed at carriers accepting passengers who are transporting pet animals (dogs and cats) to Scotland under the 'Pet Travel Scheme' (PETS), the principles apply to the transport of any pet dog or cat on other journeys.