FAQs
General Questions
Q: What is an Animal Health Certificate (AHC)? A: An Animal Health Certificate replaced the Pet Passport scheme when the UK left the European Union. It allows travel of a pet to and from the European Union.
Q: How long is an AHC valid? A: An AHC is valid for 10 days after it is issued for entry into the EU or Northern Ireland. Once there, it allows travel within the EU for up to 4 months or until the rabies vaccination expires, whichever is sooner.
Q: Which pets need an AHC? A: Dogs, cats, and ferrets traveling from Great Britain to the EU or Northern Ireland typically need an AHC. Other pets may have different requirements depending on the destination.
Q: How far in advance should I book an appointment for an AHC? A: It is recommended to schedule your appointment 7-10 days before your travel date to ensure the certificate is issued within the valid timeframe
Appointment and Documentation
Q: What documents do I need to bring to the appointment? A: You’ll need to bring: Your pet’s up-to-date vaccination records (especially rabies). Microchip details. Your passport or travel information for identification purposes.
Q: How long does the appointment take? A: The appointment typically lasts 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity of your pet’s requirements and the number of pets being certified.
Q: Can I bring multiple pets for certification in one appointment? A: Yes, each pet will require its own AHC, but the process can be completed in one visit.
Q: Are your travel documents the same as my normal vet? A: All travel certificates are issued by the government (APHA), meaning any documents received by a registered OV will be identical
Travel Requirements
Q: Does my pet need a microchip to get an AHC? A: Yes, microchipping is mandatory for pets traveling abroad. The microchip must be implanted before or on the same day as their rabies vaccination.
Q: Can I combine the tapeworm treatment with my AHC appointment? A: Yes, we can administer the tapeworm treatment during your AHC appointment if it falls within the required timeframe.
Q: Does my pet require tapeworm treatment before travel? A: Tapeworm treatment is mandatory for dogs traveling to certain countries, including Finland, Ireland, Malta, Norway, and Northern Ireland. Cats and ferrets are not usually required to undergo this treatment.
Q: Do I need a new AHC for every trip? A: Yes, AHCs are specific to each trip and cannot be reused. A new certificate must be issued for each journey.
Fees and Costs
Q: How much does an AHC cost? A: An AHC costs £99 for the first pet and £25 for subsequent animals traveling on the same certificate. For returning customers where no details have changed we offer a discounted rate of £75 for the first animal and £25 for additional animals
Q: Are there any additional costs? A: Additional charges may apply for vaccinations, microchipping, or treatments administered during the appointment.
After Certification
Q: What should I do if my travel plans change? A: If your travel dates change, contact us as soon as possible. You may need a new certificate if the changes fall outside the validity period.
Q: What if I lose my AHC? A: If you lose your AHC, you will need to schedule an urgent appointment for a replacement. Additional charges may apply.
Other Questions
Q: Can I get an AHC for non-EU countries? A: Yes, but requirements vary by country. Contact us for information on specific destinations outside the EU.
Q: Do you offer pet passport services? A: Pet passports are no longer issued for travel from Great Britain to the EU. An AHC is now required instead.