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Government updates guidance on movement of horses
Owners will need to consult with a vet at least six weeks before they are planning to travel.

Guidance designed to help owners in a no-deal scenario

The Government has updated its guidance for owners on the movement of horses and other equines in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

The guidance is designed to give owners time to prepare for the new processes, and factor in extra travel time that be required when travelling to and from the EU.

“While the Government is seeking a deal, we have stepped up our preparations and we will be ready to leave the EU on 31 October, whatever the circumstances,” explained Defra minister Lord Gardiner.

“This guidance will help businesses and owners of horses prepare if we leave without a deal and the Government has already committed to the continued movement of horses from EU member states.”

If the UK leaves the EU on 31 October without a deal:

 • equines travelling from the UK to the EU may need to undergo additional blood tests, which will need to be carried out within 30 days or less of travelling to satisfy EU regulations
 • owners will need to consult with a vet at least six weeks before they are planning to travel
 • all equines will need an Export Health Certificate in order to travel to EU states, instead of current documents, and will need to enter the EU via a Border Inspection Post (BIP)
 • most equines will also need a Government-issued travel ID document, as well as their existing equine passport.

The UK has already committed to allow the continued movement of all equines from EU member states ahead of major equestrian events and to support the industries that rely on these animals.

The government is continuing with its application to the European Commission (EC) on securing listed status for the UK, which would enable the continued movement of equines to EU member states.

If the UK is not provided with listed status by the EC, equines will not be able to travel until listed status is secured. 

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.