28/09/2026
🌍🐾 World Rabies Day – 28th September
Are you planning to travel abroad with your dog, cat or ferret?
Before you pack your bags, make sure your pet is travel ready!
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms develop. The good news is that it is preventable through vaccination.
If you're travelling to many countries with your pet, they'll need a valid rabies vaccination as part of the Pet Travel Scheme requirements. Depending on where you're travelling, additional treatments or paperwork may also be needed, so it's important to plan ahead.
💡 Rabies: Fact or Myth?
❌ Myth: The UK doesn't need to worry about rabies.
✅ Fact: The UK remains free from rabies in its native land mammals thanks to strict import regulations and responsible pet owners following travel requirements.
❌ Myth: My pet can have a rabies vaccination the day before we travel.
✅ Fact: Rabies vaccinations must be given well in advance of travel, and there may be waiting periods depending on your destination.
❌ Myth: Only dogs need rabies vaccinations for travel.
✅ Fact: Dogs, cats and ferrets all require a rabies vaccination if travelling under the Pet Travel Scheme.
If you're thinking about taking your pet abroad, contact us as early as possible. We'll help make sure you have the correct vaccinations, documentation and advice for a smooth journey.
https://www.orchardhousevets.com/services/pet-travel/
