Pet (companion) animals on holiday in the EU

We have an unexpected house guest this autumn – a beautiful Weimaraner dog. Her owners had taken her on holiday to France and when they tried to return to the UK, they were told that the dog – who has all her vaccinations, vet papers in order and the required pet passport – would have to go into quarantine for 5 months.

Hence the long drive from France to Denmark to leave her with us – none of us wanted to see her in kennels for such a long time.
Her owners are well educated, had read the regulations very carefully – they love their dog and wanted everything to go well, so how could this sort of thing happen? A trawl on the internet show that the rules are really clear and I think, easily understandable
“Travelling with a cat or dog is now much easier with the new EU pet passport available from any vet. All cats and dogs must have a passport containing details of a valid rabies vaccination. Until July 2008, Ireland, Malta, Sweden and the United Kingdom also require proof that the vaccination has been effective. (…)
In addition, treatment for ticks and tapeworm is required for entry into Ireland, Malta and the United Kingdom. Finland and Sweden require a tapeworm treatment.
An animal has to be identified by an electronic microchip. A clearly readable tattoo is also acceptable until July 2011, except if you are taking your animal to Ireland, Malta and the United Kingdom where a microchip is already required. “

What the owners had overlooked was – on the UK PETS site was:
A dog or cat may not enter or re-enter the UK under PETS until 6 calendar months have passed from the date that the blood sample which gave a satisfactory test result was taken.
My point is that no matter how clearly the EU provides information – people still do not read – or assimilate – it all.

Meanwhile I am getting fit – she is a large and vigorous dog needing an enormous amount of exercise!