“We wholeheartedly welcome and thoroughly support the reintroduction of the pet passport system. This long-awaited move represents a major victory for responsible pet owners across the UK who have, since Brexit, faced significant hurdles when travelling with their dogs to EU countries. The previous requirement for an animal health certificate for every single trip — often involving veterinary appointments, paperwork, and considerable expense — created not only a logistical challenge but also a substantial financial burden for many families.
Since the discontinuation of the pet passport scheme in 2021, we have consistently raised concerns with Government officials, highlighting the strain the system placed on dog owners who travel frequently for work, leisure, or to visit family. The bureaucratic red tape was particularly challenging for those who regularly travelled between the UK and Europe, and we have heard countless stories from members of the public who were forced to change or cancel their plans due to the complexity and cost.
The reintroduction of a simplified and streamlined pet travel document is a common-sense solution that supports both animal welfare and owner wellbeing. It will bring the UK back in line with much of the EU in terms of pet mobility, making travel less stressful for animals and more manageable for their caregivers.
We would like to thank the MPs, campaigners, and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to keep the issue of pet travel firmly on the political agenda. Their continued advocacy has been instrumental in delivering this result. This is a very positive step in the right direction, and we hope it paves the way for further cooperation between the UK and EU on animal health and welfare matters.
For countless pet owners, this announcement means more freedom, peace of mind, and the ability to include beloved pets in family travel plans — without the previous layers of red tape. We are delighted to see such meaningful change and remain committed to ensuring the pet passport system remains accessible, efficient, and fair for all.”