Changes to Entry Requirements from 1 January 2012

IMPORTANT NOTICE - CHANGES TO ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FROM 1 JANUARY 2012

From 1 January 2012 the rabies vaccination requirement for pets entering Ireland is being harmonised with requirements throughout the European Union, although some additional requirements and advice with regard to tick and tapeworm treatment may still apply.

Entry requirements for pets from 1 January 2012:

Entry from other EU Member States and qualifying (low risk) countries:

(see list of countries on this website - 'EU Passport and Pet Travel')

You must have an EU Pet Passport or Veterinary Certificate certifying microchip identification and subsequent rabies vaccination at least 21 days before entry into Ireland.

Unvaccinated pets under 3 months of age are not permitted entry.

Entry from non-qualifying (high risk) countries:

You must have an EU Pet Passport or Veterinary Certificate certifying microchip identification, subsequent rabies vaccination and a successful blood test at least 30 days post vaccination and at least 3 months before entry.

The 3 month wait does not apply to re-entry if the blood test was carried out prior to a pet leaving the EU.

Tick & tapeworm treatments

EU proposals requiring tapeworm treatment before entry are currently being discussed but have not yet been finalised. It is also likely that travellers will be advised to avail of tick treatment for their pets.

Pets in quarantine

Pets in quarantine post 1 January 2012 will be released as they become eligible. For example, an identified, rabies vaccinated, pet from a non qualifying (high risk) country that enters '6 month' quarantine on 31 December 2011 will be releasable as soon as the new conditions (i.e. successful 30 day blood test plus 3 month wait) are met.

Further information: Help-line 1890 504 604
From outside Ireland: +353 1 607 2827
E-mail: pets@agriculture.gov.ie