Rabies quarantine
The quarantine website provides information about rabies quarantine in the United Kingdom for cats, dogs and other rabies susceptible animals that do not qualify for entry into the UK under the Pet Travel Scheme and are required by law to spend 6 months in quarantine.
Rabbits and rodents
Defra is carrying out a review of UK rabies policies.
The import of rabbits is controlled by the Rabies (Importation of Dogs, Cats and Other Mammals) Order 1974 (as amended), and by the Non-Indigenous Rabbits (Prohibition of Importation and Keeping) Order 1954 which prohibits the importation into, or keeping within, Great Britain of all species of rabbits, other than the European species (Oryctolagus cuniculus).
The rules covering the import of pet rabbits of the European species and pet rodents are explained on this website.
Commission Decision 2003/459/EC prohibits the import into the EU of prairie dogs originating in or travelling from the USA. It also prohibits the import of certain rodents and squirrels originating in or travelling from certain countries of the sub-Saharan region of Africa.
Rare animals
Conservation (CITES) licences are required for the importation into the UK of certain rare animals. Full details are available from Defra's Wildlife Licensing Unit who will also provide application forms. Telephone 0117 372 8749; fax 0117 372 8206; e-mail cites.ukma@defra.gsi.gov.uk
Page last modified: 18 July, 2007