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<p>Dogs must be over 15 weeks of age to be imported into the United Kingdom. Those
imported from EU Member States are required to have an Intra Trade Animal Health Certificate
(ITAHC) and valid pet passport. These documents confirm their health preparation and,
along with a microchip, the animals’ identity. Dogs being imported into the UK must
have an examination prior to embarkation from an Official Veterinarian (OV). The OV
confirms it meets the import requirements of the UK and issues an ITAHC.</p><p>Dogs
imported from non-EU countries go through a similar process. The health preparation
requirements and certification, however, differ according to the disease status of
the country of origin.</p><p>The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) carry out risk-based
checks on dogs that have been imported into Great Britain. During these checks, APHA
ensures that these dogs meet the import requirements. Local authorities are responsible
for taking enforcement action when dogs are not compliant with the import rules. Should
APHA checks identify that a dog has been imported, but is not compliant with the import
rules, the relevant local authority will be informed.</p><p>Dogs and puppies moving
into the country with their owners must meet the requirements of the pet travel scheme,
meaning that they must be accompanied by a pet passport or certificate confirming
that they have undergone adequate health preparation to enable them to enter the UK
safely.</p><p> </p><p> </p>
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