Passports for Pets

Well, there was a lot to write about last week.

The European Parliament was actually in Strasbourg, in plenary session. This is when all (or almost all) MEPs turn up and vote on mainly legislative proposals that have been adopted in Committee previously.

The one that really caught my eye was the Schnellhardt report on well, "Passports for pets". The vote was on Thursday 23 May and very interesting. Roger Helmer UKIP MEP got caught out abstaining. Twice.

And then three UKIP Members actually voted against!

Perhaps they do not have Constituents, or Ferret owners, who do have pets. And would like to take them on holiday when they travel to the Continent, or Ireland

Who knows?

Either way, in their shoes I would not be happy at the way UKIP MEPs voted.

Don't they care?

Basically, Ferrets, dogs and cats were given greater opportunities to travel across EU borders.

Also changes in the law were approved to provide for the movement of non-commercial pet animals.

The new arrangements are built on the success of 'pets passports' legislation approved a decade ago.

They simplify procedures and allow more animals to be moved to take part in competitions and sporting events.

Pet animals can accompany their owners on holiday if they carry a microchip 'passport' that proves that they have been vaccinated against rabies. Human cases of rabies average only one per year in the EU.

Our MEP following this issue is Chris Davies (Lib Dem for the North West Region), ALDE coordinator on the Environment Committee who hailed the measure as an example of an EU law that made life better for people - and their pets.

He said: "Ferrets, cats and dogs can now travel across Europe for holidays, competitions or sexual liaisons for breeding purposes.

"The misery of quarantine restrictions for both pets and their owners has come to an end, and cases of rabies have been held in check.

"This is the EU creating opportunities and adding value to the experience of people and their pets in a way that no single country could do alone."

Joan Garrity - Leicester City comments

Just to let you know - this is nothing new. The Pet Passport I mean.

Those of us who show our dogs in the show ring well know that to be able to take our "pets" over to France or Belgium for dog shows or holidays, the dogs need to have a Pet Passport. Not something that can be acquired in a couple of days - just check it out with your vet !!

But, do not be misled by this article - you do not need a Pet Passport to take you dog with you to Ireland.

The last time I travelled there by air, it cost me £10.00 for the dog. If you go over by ferry your dog must stay in your car, or you can book a kennel for the dog for a small fee.

Enjoy it in Ireland with your dog, well behaved dogs are welcome everywhere.