Pets will now be allowed to travel within the EU without any paperwork, but under certain circumstances. The EU Parliament has just agreed to make amendments to existing laws concerning pets and animals. The changes would allow pets to travel without passports during emergencies.

Emergencies include political turmoil and natural disasters. This development is seen by many as an important step forward today for animal rights. Here is a part of an article that appeared on independent.i. e., “New laws will even allow animals without rabies jabs to pass through rabies-free countries if their situation is deemed dire enough.

Officials in the European Parliament have agreed to change existing laws to help pet owners out of difficult situations.

Welcoming the development, a Department of Agriculture spokesman said easing the restrictions would make it easier for pets to get across borders in an emergency.

“Special provision is also being made for pet owners affected by events such as political unrest or severe personal circumstances,” the spokesman added.

Pets will also be allowed to catch a flight on their own – depending on how serious their emergency is. Regulations in relation to rabies protection and moving pets through the EU have been in place since 2003. Cats, dogs and ferrets can travel with their owners around the EU provided they have a passport certifying their identification, rabies vaccination status and tapeworm treatment.

Rules are also in place for those travelling into the EU from other countries. But the new amendment – agreed by Europe’s Committee of Representatives and introduced to bring provisions in line with the Lisbon Treaty – is said to improve practicalities for pet owners.”

You can read the full article here.

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