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The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), or Pet Passport as it is often called, is designed to protect human health. It is the system that means people in the UK can take their pets to certain countries and bring them back without the need for quarantine. It also allows pet animals from these countries to enter the UK without quarantine as long as they meet certain conditions.
Information on the scheme can be found:
- at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs website
- or by calling the PETS Helpline on 0870 241 1710.
PET TRAVEL TIPS
Pets won't bury their heads in comic books, ask 'are we there yet?' every two minutes, or spill juice in the back seat, but they do have special needs when they travel, so planning ahead is essential. These tips can help you make sure your pet is prepared to travel.
Identification
Pets should always wear an identification tag. When you're going on a trip, you can use a luggage tag to list your destination address and contact information as well as the name and number of a third party in case you can't be reached.
Before you leave
Firstly, make sure that your pet is examined and up to date with any vaccinations, blood tests and documentation before you go. If you are preparing to travel via the Pet Travel Scheme remember it will take several months to prepare. Make sure you have allowed enough time. Pets are likely to need extra medication to protect them from foreign diseases and parasites. Your vet will be able to advise you on the most suitable precautions to take.
Be aware that some types of transportation don't allow pets unless they're working animals such as guide dogs. Check first. In the UK, use the RCVS Find a Vet service to identify vet practices along your route and at your destination in case an emergency arises.
Familiarise your pet with its carrier or crate so it will feel at home and secure. If you're travelling or relocating internationally make sure you understand applicable rules and regulations.
Identify pet friendly places to stay en route.
Try not to feed your dog or cat for about six hours before travelling to minimise the chances of car or air sickness.
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Things to take 
Depending on your mode of travel and the length of your trip, consider bringing your pet's favorite toy, cleanup supplies (including scooper and plastic bags), cat litter (including just a bit of litter your cat has already used), air freshener and carpet cleaner, regular food and treats, food bowl and food, water and water bowl, grooming supplies, familiar blanket or bedding, health documentation and regular medications, lead, crate or carrier, and recent photos of your pet.
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Safety and comfort in the car
If your pet isn't comfortable in your vehicle or hasn't been driven very often, take a few local spins before your trip begins. Go to a pet friendly park in your area so your pet will associate riding in the car with a pleasant experience.
Remember that pet passengers may be hurt seriously or fatally, even in a low-speed accident, so protect your pet against injury from sudden stops or swerving by using an appropriate carrier or restraint. Don't try to use the seat belt in your vehicle - it was designed for humans. There are several types of dog and cat restraints on the market - they not only protect your pet, but also the driver and other passengers too by stopping the pet from hitting the driver or the back of the driver's seat during a collision or sudden stop.
When you park, be sure to choose a shady spot. It is unwise to leave your pet alone in your vehicle, even for a few minutes. Unattended pets can be stolen, and even seasoned travellers may panic when alone in unfamiliar surroundings. Never leave your pet in a vehicle when the weather is warm. It only takes a few minutes for a car to become hot enough to cause heatstroke and dehydration. Cold weather may pose the threat of hypothermia, particularly in very old or very young animals.
When you make stops, take shifts so someone is always with your pet. Open the windows wide enough to let fresh air in - but of course not wide enough to let your pet out!
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Safety and comfort in the air
Make arrangements well in advance for pets travelling by air and confirm those arrangements 24-48 hours before the flight. Airlines may allow small pets to travel in the passenger compartment if their carrier meets cabin specifications. Consult your airline for specific rules and charges - many airline websites (e.g. British Airways ) provide this information.
Ensure your pet's carrier complies with airline regulations or purchase a carrier directly from the airline. If your pet is travelling as cargo, attach a tag providing destination and contact information as well as feeding and watering instructions. Food and water dishes have to be secured in the carrier. You may have to deliver your pet to the air freight area of the terminal and you will have to provide certain health documentation. Try to schedule nonstop flights during cooler times of day.
Stops along the way
Travelling with a pet makes the trip a little longer - you should try to stick to your pet's normal exercise, walking, and feeding schedule. Be aware that even-tempered, gentle pets can misbehave in unfamiliar surroundings. Attach a lead before you let your pet out of your vehicle and keep your pet on the lead until it's back in the vehicle with the door closed. Carry health documentation with you and, when abroad, the specific documentation required to enter the country. Camp sites, parks, hotels and motels that accept pets are likely to require it.
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