Recommendation 8

HM Government · verbatim extract Rejected

We continue to operate one of the most rigorous and robust pet travel checking regimes in Europe. Under existing Pet Travel rules all non-commercial dogs, cats, and ferrets entering Great Britain on approved routes (excluding those travelling from the Republic of Ireland, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands) must undergo 100% documentary and identity checks by authorised pet checkers. Authorised pet checkers must be trained by APHA staff before they are granted approval. A system of audits carried out at least once a year, or more frequent depending on the throughput, plays an important part in ensuring rules and requirements are properly implemented and standards met. Pet checkers receive refresher training and are encouraged to work with APHA to identify trends in non-compliance and additional training requirements. Engagement with pet carriers demonstrates that they are committed to preventing illegal imports of pet animals. Carriers have already instituted unilateral measures to reduce the carriage of pet animals for commercial reasons. For example, both P&O Ferries and Brittany Ferries have refused accounts to commercial dog importers. Eurotunnel now limits the number of pets that can be transported in one vehicle. These carriers work closely with operational colleagues at APHA and Border Force. Evidence gathered by APHA during mandatory quality assurance checks on pet travel movements demonstrates good awareness of the pet travel rules. Although the Government have no plans to change the current compliance checking arrangements, we will continue to keep the compliance and enforcement of any new and existing requirements under review.