You
may have finally got your hands on that perfect French property or just
visiting someone else who has, but getting the beloved family pets out
there may prove a struggle unless you get to grips with the rules. Note
that the rules for bringing Dogs into France and into the UK differ,
additional rules apply entering or returning to the UK.
Since
2004 there are three main conditions which must be met.
1.
For any cat, dog, ferret or carnivorous mammal, owners must provide
identification for their pet, be this a clearly readable tattoo or microchip
under the skin.
2.
A valid vaccination against rabies must also be carried out which includes
the first injection and boosters. These will both be recorded it the
animal's passport which is needed to get into France.
3.
This EU pet passport, which confirms a rabies vaccination has been delivered
by a government approved vet, will also provide certifications of others
vaccinations done in the past.
Despite
this, the valid rabies vaccination is, in fact, the sole requirement
for pets from the UK to enter into France. However, when entering the
Uk, from France, an additional requirement for Dogs is that a minimum
of 6 months must have elapsed since the result of a positive blood test,
confirming a successful rabies injection (note there is 1 in 5 chance
of it not being successful first time). The 6 month blood test rule
is currently under review and it is possible that entry to the UK rules
will fall in line with the French rules, although its likely to be some
time before any change is made.
Kittens
and puppies under three months old cannot be vaccinated for the disease
and are therefore banned from coming into the country.
Vets
in France also advise that treatments for tapeworms and ticks are carried
out for the health and comfort of your pet.
Pet
birds, reptiles, insects, fish and rodents including rabbits and guinea-pigs
will need to have a certificate of good health issued in both French
and English which is approved by a private vet.