Does my pet need to be quarantined when I return to the UK?

No, new regulations mean that as long as your pet meets certain criteria, there is no need for quarantine when travelling from the UAE to the UK.   At present a blood test called a 'Rabies Titre Test' is required.   This tests the level of rabies antibodies in the blood. The process takes eight months from start to finish and after that time the animal is free to travel.   The process requires several stages so please contact our veterinary staff for more information.

Does my pet need a microchip and what information is stored on the chip?

A microchip is required for travel to most countries.  A microchip is smaller than a grain of rice and is inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades. A needle is used to do this and takes but a few moments.   This chip contains a unique number, which can be read by a special scanner, no other information is stored on the chip.   The chip number is placed in the vaccination book and is proof that the vaccinations stated in the book were given to that animal.   The AVC registers all microchips on an Internet database so that if an animal is found then they can be reunited with their owners. For more information about the countries that require microchips, please contact us.   

What vaccination(s) does my pet need for travelling?

A Rabies vaccine is required for travel to most countries.   The validity of the vaccine is dependent on the country of import and export.   For further information please contact us.

Can my pet be sedated for travel?

The doctors at the AVC would not advise sedation for any pet travelling.   Sedation is very dangerous as an animal that is under sedation is unable to control their body temperature, their blood pressure can drop and their breathing become shallow.   If left unmonitored this can cause serious harm to an animal. Animals under sedation are also unable to balance and if there is any turbulence then they would be thrown around their cage and would cause themselves injury.

Am I able to take my pet with me in the cabin?

When entering the UAE the ministry has stated that all pets must travel as manifested cargo.   When leaving the UAE it is at the discretion of the airline as to weather or not an animal is allowed in the cabin.   Flying with your animal in the cabin is not advised however as it increases the stress on the animal and yourself. As well as being inconvenient to the cabin crew and other passengers. Consider : If your pet barks a lot or goes to the toilet, this will have an effect on all those around you.