WIREDGOV

Streamlined system in place for Ukrainian nationals entering the UK with their pets.

• Refugees fleeing Ukraine can bring pets with them when coming to the UK
• Animal and Plant Health Agency providing quick approvals to expedite emergency licence process
• Government covering the costs of any necessary stays in quarantine for the pets of Ukrainian nationals

The Government yesterday put in place new emergency support for those fleeing Ukraine with their pets. Using an emergency licence, Ukrainian nationals can bring their pets to the UK with any quarantine costs met by the Government.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency is providing quick license approvals and quarantine arrangements to avoid creating additional burdens or delays. The Government will also be covering their vaccination, microchipping and quarantine costs, recognising that many Ukrainian individuals will not have been able to complete the full health preparations required for their pet on arrival.

The maximum stay in quarantine for a pet which has received no rabies vaccination is four months. Pets will be considered on a case by case basis, with a shortened quarantine period for those that are vaccinated. We are working with vets and quarantine facilities to make sure that the arrival of Ukrainians in the UK is not delayed by the process to make arrangements for their pets.

Animal Welfare Minister Lord Goldsmith yesterday said:

Ukrainian nationals are in an appalling situation. I’m pleased that Ukrainian refugees will be able to bring their pets to the UK with any quarantine costs paid for by the Government.

As part of our new streamlined process, any animals which have already received some treatment may also have their stay in quarantine reduced and be returned back to their owner as soon as possible

Before arrival, Ukrainian nationals or their carrier should contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency at pettravel@apha.gov.uk or call +44 3000 200 301 option 2. They will then be able to confirm their approval for their emergency licence and organise any necessary stay in quarantine which is required to complete the rabies risk management process.

There is a limited amount of quarantine facilities in the UK and we will prioritise those fleeing Ukraine who wish to bring their pets with them, rather than animals being brought over on a commercial basis, including rescue imports. Commercial imports, including rescue imports must follow the usual process for pets travelling from unlisted countries.