Animals you can take on holiday
Dogs, cats and ferrets can travel under the Defra PETS Pet Travel Scheme.
Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, rats, gerbils and chinchillas can currently move between EU countries (including the UK) and into the EU from Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and Vatican with no requirements with regard to rabies. From these countries, these animals can enter the UK on any route at any port, subject to Transport Company’s agreement.
For entry from other countries there is a 6 month quarantine requirement. The EU may impose conditions at a later date.
DFDS Seaways can accept bookings for such animals on the Newcastle–Amsterdam (IJmuiden) and Harwich-Esbjerg routes, provided that they are suitably secured and kept in your vehicle. There should be sufficient space for the animal to move freely, and you should make the animal as comfortable as possible, using absorbent bedding, equipment and toys with which the animal is familiar with.
Before leaving your vehicle you must ensure that the animal(s) will have enough ventilation and water/food. This will normally mean that one or more windows will need to be left partly open, but it is important also to ensure that the animal(s) cannot escape. Animals should be adequately restrained and should be carried in a suitable secure container.
Movement of more than five pets for competitions, shows or sporting events
The number of pets (dogs, cats and ferrets) that can be moved between EU Member States – including into and out of the UK – is limited to five per person, unless you are taking part in a competition, show or sporting event.
These animals will require a specific health certificate issued by the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency. Full advice and guidance can be found at www.defra.gov.uk.