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Quarantine

Answer

EC Regulation 998/2003 sets out the animal health requirements for movement of pets within the European Union and into the EU from other countries. The regulation makes provision for a pet entering the EU from a third country which does not meet the appropriate animal health requirements to either be placed under official control until it meets those requirements, or returned to its country of origin or, as a last resort, be euthemised where return or isolation in quarantine is not possible. Those conditions will remain in place beyond 2010.At present, pet animals entering the UK from countries not listed in the EC regulation are licensed in to quarantine for six months and are vaccinated against rabies immediately on their arrival. They are also observed and monitored for any signs of disease or illness whilst in quarantine.An assessment of the potential risks to public health that could arise as a result of pet dogs, cats and ferrets entering the UK from third countries not listed in EC Regulation 998/2003 has been carried out and is currently being considered across Government in developing our future strategy for the UK Pet Travel Scheme in the event that our derogations from that regulation lapse in 2010.The shape of the UK's pet movement controls, including quarantine, that may apply in 2010 is under review and is being discussed with the European Commission. These controls need to be based on a good understanding of the disease risks and are being considered on the basis of scientific evidence. We are also in discussions with the other four member states who also have derogations to the pet movement regulation.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

483 c1619-20W; 236243

Session

2007-08

Subjects

Pets Quarantine

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk