Lewes District Council

Importing animals

Regulations are in place when importing animals into the UK. This differs from within the EU. Defra control and approve importation.

Quarantine regulations are legally enforced in the UK. However, importation of animals from Europe has been revised.

This is controlled by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs who have specific information on the importation and quarantine of animals.

The importation of pets including hamsters, gerbils, mice and birds into the UK is strictly controlled and it is essential that anyone intending to import a pet should obtain the latest information.

The Rabies (Importation of Dogs, Cats and Other Animals) Order 1974 gives powers to destroy animals landed without a pet passport and fine or imprison owners of animals.

If you would like to import an animal into the UK, the procedure is:

Reserve accommodation at an approved Defra premises
Reserve an Defra authorised carrying agent to take the animal from the point of entry into the UK to the premises
Check that the port/airport of entry is Defra approved
Complete the quarantine application form and send it to Defra
Defra sends an import license to the carrying agent
Defra sends a 'boarding document' to you or your agent confirming the license and acting as evidence that importing your pet has been approved
Arrange for your pet to be transported, obeying the regulations (different for sea and air) about crating, labelling etc

It’s advised to research and visit the premises and book pets in early. Agree costs in advance and make sure they cover all possible eventualities. The RSPCA can provide a list of quarantine kennels/catteries.

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Importing animals