Welfare of pets in quarantine
It is only right that pet owners should expect the highest standards of care for their pets during the time that they are in quarantine.
Although the Department do not lay down rules for the welfare of animals in quarantine we have produced a voluntary Code of Practice on the welfare of dogs and cats in quarantine premises. This code was drawn up in consultation with premises owners and welfare organisations. The Department cannot enforce the provisions of this code on any individual premises so it is in your own interests and that of your pet to ensure that all your requirements are covered in the contract agreed between you and the premises of your choice.
Quarantine premises marked with a star against their name on the list of approved premises comply with the Code.
How does Defra ensure that premises comply with the Code?
There are regular inspections of quarantine premises by State Veterinary Officers (usually at least four times a year, with two visits being unannounced). Premises that do not comply will have their star removed.
Visits from the Veterinary Superintendent
At each quarantine premises a veterinary superintendent employed by the premises' owner is responsible for the veterinary care of your pet. The superintendent will visit the premises each day from Monday to Saturday, and on Sunday when necessary. If you have any questions relating to the health or welfare of your pet, you should bring it to their attention. The quarantine premises will tell you who their veterinary superintendent is.
The veterinary superintendent will vaccinate all dogs and cats against rabies within 48 hours of their arrival in quarantine. However, animals entering quarantine with a view to obtaining early release under the Pet Travel Scheme may not have to be vaccinated.
Illness
The owner of the premises is responsible for notifying you should your pet become ill in quarantine. Any medication required will be at your expense.
Death in quarantine
In the unfortunate event of your pet dying while in quarantine, Animal Health (formerly State Veterinary Service) has a legal responsibility to have the head sent to an approved laboratory to ensure the cause of death was not rabies. If the laboratory confirms that the cause of death was not rabies, the Veterinary Superintendent may release to you ashes of the body. The laboratory result may take up to several weeks to obtain.
See also
Page last modified: October 27, 2009