PETS: Pet rabbits and rodents
The following rules currently apply to the movement of pet rabbits and rodents.
Movement between European Union (EU) countries or into the EU from Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and the Vatican are not subject to any requirement with regard to rabies. This means that currently there are no requirements for these animals when entering the UK from any of these countries. The EU may impose conditions on the movement of these animals at a later date. If conditions are imposed this website will be updated.
When imported into the UK from any non-EU country, other than those listed in the previous paragraph, pets must be licensed into quarantine for 6 months. This requirement may be reviewed by the EU at a later date. Commission Decision 2003/459/EC prohibits the import into the EU of prairie dogs originating in or travelling from the USA. It also prohibits the import of certain rodents and squirrels originating in or travelling from certain countries of the sub-Saharan region of Africa.
The maximum number of all types of pet animals (not only rabbits and rodents) each person may bring into the EU from most non-EU listed countries is 5. This rule does not apply to animals brought from Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland or the Vatican. For details of transporting more than 5 animals into the EU from countries except those named in the previous sentence contact Animal Health (formerly State Veterinary Service) International Animal Health Division on 01245 358383 or by e-mail: AHITChelmsford@animalhealth.gsi.gov.uk.
Animals covered by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) remain subject to the provisions of Council Regulation 338/97 on the protection of species of wild fauna and flora.
Travelling to the UK with your pet
Pets from other EU countries and from Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein,
Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and the Vatican are able to enter
the UK on any route at any point of entry, subject to the agreement and
conditions of carriage of the transport company. Check in advance
that the transport company is willing to transport your pet.
Page last modified: August 13, 2007