The Pink Vets

Animal Health Certificate (AHC)

Please check the government website for more information

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Important

If you need, or think you need an animal health certificate please contact the clinic and speak to one of our vets.
It is a complicated certificate and it can be a long process to provide one. 

Some of our veterinarians are 'official veterinarians' so they can issue an AHC's.

You need an animal health certificate for your dog, cat or ferret if you’re travelling from Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland) to an EU country or Northern Ireland.

You can add up to 5 pets to an animal health certificate.

There are different rules for different countries. Here are a few of them.

  • You need a new certificate for each individual trip you want to take in the EU or NI.
  • You must use the AHC within 10 days of it being issued.
  • Once it is used to enter a European country it is valid for four months, or until the rabies vaccination expires, whichever comes first. 
  • You must return to the UK, with your pet, within 4 months of issue.
  • This document is ONLY for non-commercial animals.


For dogs only:

  • 24 - 120 hours before returning to the UK, a local vet (like in France or Spain for example) will have to administer a tape worm tablet. If you are leaving. If you are returning within 5 days (120 hours), the tapeworm treatment can be given by a vet in the UK before you travel. If you return within 24 hours, the tapeworm treatment MUST be given before you leavr the UK.
  • If you are traveling to Finnalnd, Ireland, Malta, Nothern Ireland or Norway your dog must also be given tapeworm treatment 24-120 hours before traveling. 


There are many other diseases that can cause a danger to your pet in European countries, for which there is no compulsary prophylactic treatment requirement. Some of these can also be transmitted to humans. Your vet will discuss what you can do to protect your furry friend from these.

What your pet needs to qualify for an AHC;

  • to be microchipped.
  • to be vaccinated for rabies a minimum of 21 days prior to travel.
  • be a minimum of 12 weeks old.