What is a passport for a dog? - briefly
A dog's passport is an official document that contains essential information about the pet, including its health status and vaccinations. It is required for international travel with your dog, facilitating smooth border crossings and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
What is a passport for a dog? - in detail
A dog passport, also known as an EU pet passport or animal health certificate, is an official document issued by a veterinarian that provides essential information about a pet dog and its health status. This document plays a crucial role in facilitating the international travel of pets, ensuring that they meet the necessary health requirements and regulations of the countries they are visiting or transiting through.
The primary purpose of a dog passport is to verify that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies, a deadly disease that can be transmitted to humans. The passport contains detailed records of the dog's vaccinations, including the type of vaccine used and the date of administration. Additionally, it includes information about the pet owner, such as their name and address, as well as a unique identification number for the animal, which is typically the microchip number or tattoo.
In the European Union (EU), dog passports are issued under the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), which allows for the safe movement of pets between EU member states without the need for quarantine. To obtain a pet passport, dogs must be at least 12 weeks old and have been vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. The vaccine must be approved by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
It is essential to note that the validity of a dog passport depends on the country's specific regulations. In some cases, it may require an additional health certificate or veterinary check-up upon arrival in the destination country. It is always recommended to consult with a local veterinarian or the relevant authorities before traveling internationally with a pet.
In summary, a dog passport serves as a vital document that ensures the safe and legal transportation of pets across international borders. By providing essential health information and adhering to stringent vaccination protocols, it helps prevent the spread of diseases and promotes responsible pet ownership worldwide.