Moving to Spain: Moving of animals and plants

Regulation (EC) No 998/2003 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 May 2003 on the animal health requirements applicable to the non commercial movement of pet animals:

Pet animals: animals which accompany their owners or natural person responsible for such animals on behalf of the owner during their movement and are not intended to be sold or transferred to another owner.

Dog/cat passport: in force since 3 July 2004, although compulsory use was postponed until October 2004, a document enabling the pet animal to be clearly identified and guaranteeing its having been vaccinated against rabies.

Animals must bear:

• a clearly readable tattoo, or
• an electronic identification system (transponder)

Whatever form the animal identification system takes, provision shall also be made for the indication of details identifying the name and address of the animal's owner.

The embassy or consulate of the Member State of destination can provide all the information necessary on any formalities you may have to comply with in this respect.

Where the requirements applicable to movement provide for an antibody titration for rabies, the sample must be taken by an authorised veterinarian and the test must be carried out by an approved laboratory.

If they are animals for sale or animals which are transported by air or by public transport, the documentation required by the transport companies concerned will also have to be completed.

Text last edited on: 06/200

Source: European Union
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