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Animal Health Certificates

Asked by Dr Luke EvansConservativeDepartment for Environment, Food and Rural AffairsTabled Answered 22 June 2026UIN 8111

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will conduct an assessment of the border control strategies at the UK border to ensure a consistent approach to the use of Animal Health Certificates.

Answered by Stephen Morgan

This Government takes the importation of pets seriously and is committed to preserving high standards of biosecurity and animal welfare. Therefore, 100% checks are completed on all non-commercial movements of dogs, cats, ferrets travelling into Great Britain on approved routes.

On entry into Great Britain, pet checkers, who have received the necessary training and guidance, undertake compliance checks to ensure that all pet dogs, cats, and ferrets meet the necessary health and documentary requirements.

The import processes for pets are under continual review and monitoring by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), and we are satisfied that current checks in place are consistent and proportionate.

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