International trade - Exports of live animals: Defra's responsibilities
Defra has a responsibility to ensure that all live animal exports from Great Britain are certified in accordance with the requirements of the relevant EU trade legislation requirement of the governing authorities in the country of destination and that consignments are accompanied by appropriate health documentation. This documentation usually takes the form of an Export Health Certificate, normally (but there are some exceptions) signed by a Defra appointed veterinarian and providing assurances regarding the current disease status in Great Britain and the health of the animal(s). For this reason it is usually necessary for the consignment to be subject to veterinary examination.
Page last modified:
October 14, 2008