Defra, UK - Farming - Retail and trade

Farming

Animal imports

Imports of live animals are controlled to prevent the import of disease into England. The level of control required will depend upon the species being imported and whether or not the country of origin is within the European Union (EU).

Full details of the requirements for importing animals, and products of animal origin, can be found within the imports section of international trade on the Defra website.

In addition to the health controls that need to be met, there are also animal welfare issues that need to be considered.

Import controls

For a summary of the general procedures and veterinary checks required for importing live animals, and animal products, you should check the Importer Information Notes (IINs) section.

To check latest developments or any current restrictions that may be in place you should check the Customer Information Notes. You can also sign up to receive an email ALERT service for UK importers and exporters provided by Defra and HM Revenue and Customs.

Certain animals and products of animal origin that are not covered by European Union regulations require an import licence to be imported into Great Britain. Again, details of these, and application forms can be found in the imports section of international trade.

If you intend bringing pets into the UK, they may be exempt from going into quarantine under the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). For animals that do not qualify under the Pet Travel Scheme you will need to follow the rabies quarantine procedures.

Importing horses

For details on importing horses, see Horse Passports and the Tripartite agreement with Ireland and France.

Animal welfare

For journeys by sea, air or rail
Transporters in the UK must be authorised by Defra. Transporters in the rest of the EU should be authorised by their own country. Transporters outside the EU must be authorised by Defra or another EU country.
Attendants must have demonstrated competence, either by approved certificate or assessment.

Appropriate provisions must be made for:

food
water
ventilation
partitioning
access to the animals

After a maximum period travelling, animals must be rested for 24 hours at a staging point before any further transport - see Summary of Welfare of Animals Transport Order (1997) rules.

Transporters must provide an approved route plan. A route plan is not required for registered horses.

Defra has a number guides on the do’s and don’ts on transporting animals covering aspects including vehicle ventilation, transport by air and dealing with casualty animals.

Specific authorisation is required for transporting animals more than eight hours or on journeys by sea, rail or air. Apply to your nearest Animal Health Divisional Office.

New EU rules on welfare in transport come into effect in 2007.