Small Talk - Summer 2018

Planning ahead, to ensure that taking your pet on holiday doesn’t turn into a nightmare, is an important part of keeping everyone safe. By Bob Pettit BVM&S BSc CertSAS MRCVS Kingsway Veterinary Group Pets in U nder the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), it is now easier, and more affordable, to travel with your pets, and it is a great idea to take your four-legged friend with you for some holiday fun, especially if you are heading off to Europe by car, caravan or motorhome. However, it is important to be aware of the potential increased health risks and new diseases your pet may encounter when abroad. You can now take dogs, cats, even ferrets away without the need for quarantine, but travelling from country to country with your pet requires planning and preparation as a responsible pet owner. The Pet Travel Scheme is designed to minimise the risks of diseases entering the UK, but this doesn’t protect your pet from encountering them whilst away. Many diseases that occur abroad are not seen here, and several are transmitted by insects and ticks. Pets here in the UK are likely to be highly susceptible to them, so we recommend a suitable flea, tick and worming treatment before you travel, as well as additional protection against mosquitos and sandflies.