PETS: What vets need to do - dogs and cats
Blood testing and the 6 month rule
After vaccination against rabies, you may take a blood sample from the animal and send it to be analysed at an at an EU-approved laboratory. Read the microchip before taking the sample.
The vaccine manufacturer’s data sheet will give the best time for a blood sample to be taken after vaccination. You may wish to give your client a signed record of the date the sample was taken with the microchip number correctly stated.
Where the blood sample is analysed
The blood sample must be analysed EU-approved laboratory. An analysis carried out before the recognition date of the laboratory is not acceptable.
Ask the laboratory for the correct submission form and advice on labelling and delivery of the sample. Make sure that the microchip number and the date the blood sample was taken are accurately and clearly recorded on the submission form.
Laboratory containment requirements
Blood test result
A satisfactory test result must show that the rabies neutralising antibody titre was equal to or greater than 0.5 IU/ml. The test result must show the animal’s microchip number. If it does not, ask the laboratory for one that does. Give your client a certified copy of the result and keep the original at your practice.
Failed blood tests
If an animal fails the blood test, the test must be repeated and this may be done following revaccination depending on your advice to the client. The 6 calendar month wait before entering the UK (see below) would start from the date that a subsequent blood sample that gave a satisfactory result was taken.
Further blood tests
No further blood tests are required following a satisfactory result as long as the animal is revaccinated against rabies on time.
The 6 month rule for entering or re-entering the UK
A dog or cat may not enter or re-enter the UK until 6 calendar months have passed from the date that the blood sample which gave a satisfactory test result was taken.
Page last modified: December 13, 2006