UK Pet Owners Face Steep Costs After EU Passport Rule Change

British pet owners traveling to the European Union now face new requirements following a change in travel documentation rules.

From Wednesday, the EU pet passport scheme is no longer valid for UK residents, who must instead obtain a new animal health certificate for each trip.

The change means that pet owners must secure a separate certificate every time they travel abroad with their animals, replacing the previous system where a single EU pet passport sufficed.

This has led to increased costs and travel disruptions for many.

Some pet owners have reported steep bills to obtain the new certificates, with some unable to take pre-paid holidays due to the lack of communication about the rule change.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has advised travelers to check official guidance and entry rules for their destinations.

The Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) clarified that EU pet passports issued before the change are no longer valid and that such passports should only be issued to residents whose main home is in the EU.

This excludes UK residents with holiday homes or seasonal visits in the EU.

The new rules have had a particular impact on guide dog owners, with Guide Dogs for the Blind highlighting the increased cost and complexity of obtaining certificates for every journey.

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