A traveller entering Italy with a dog or cat must have a veterinarian's certificate stating the animal is in good health and has been vaccinated against rabies between 20 days and 11 months before entry into Italy. The certificate is valid for 30 days. The forms are available from all Italian diplomatic and consular representatives. A dog must be on a leash or muzzled when in public.
THE PET TRAVEL SCHEME:
It is now possible to take dogs and cats on holiday to Italy.
In order to qualify for the Pet Travel Scheme, the animal must be:
- Fitted with a microchip
- Vaccinated against rabies
- Blood tested
- Issued with an official PETS certificate
- Treated against tapeworm and ticks 24 to 48 hours prior to leaving Italy and returning to the UK, the animal must be treated against tapeworm and ticks by an approved veterinary surgeon and a certificate obtained.
Pets can then enter the UK and avoid the previous need for six months' quarantine.
However, it should be noted that it is necessary to wait six months after vaccination and a successful blood test result before a pet is entitled to enter the UK under the travel scheme. This is because if a pet is infected before vaccination, it can take up to 6 months for rabies to incubate.
For more information please contact:
THE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT FOOD and RURAL AFFAIRS
1A Page Street, London SW1P 4PQ
Tel. 0870 2411710 Fax 020 7904 6834
(Working Days: Monday-Friday 08.30-17.00)
E-mail: pets.helpline@defra.gsi.gov.uk
Library Enquiry Desk
DEFRA - Room 320 - Nobel House,
17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR
DEFRA - Helpline: Tel. 08459 33 55 77/
Tel. 020 7238 6000
Fax 020 7238 6591 (Working Days: Monday-Friday 09.00-17.00)
E-mail: helpline@defra.gov.uk
For permanent pet export certificates call DEFRA Tel. 020 7238 6000 to obtain a contact number for the relevant local office.