Exports

If you plan to travel your horse abroad, you will need to apply to DEFRA for an Export Health Certificate. If you are using a professional transporter, then they may be able to apply for this on your behalf. DEFRA will then forward the EHC to us, as your Official Vets.

We will need to inspect the horse or horses within 48 hours of departure and certify them fit to travel. When we receive the EHC, we will contact you to arrange this inspection. 

It is important to check the particular import requirements of the country you are travelling to, as various blood tests and swabs may be required and negative results must be available to us before the horse can certified to travel. The various tests take different lengths of time to process at the laboratory and it is essential to factor in sufficient time prior to export for these tests to be performed. Periods of quarantine may also be required in certain situations for certain countries.

When the UK leaves the EU, unfortunately things look likely to become more complex. If a deal is reached with the EU, then things will continue as they are. However, in the event of a no deal Brexit the situation will change. EU member states have agreed the UK’s ‘listed’ status, required for a third country to export live animals. Therefore, the movement of equines to the EU will continue after a potential no deal Brexit. 

In a no deal scenario, horses to be exported will need to be tested for Equine Infectious Anaemia prior to export. Tests must be performed within either 30 or 90 days, depending on the type of export.

Entire male animals over 180 days old will need to be tested for Equine Viral Arteritis within 21 days of export, unless they meet vaccination requirements. 

We are happy to offer advice on exports and, given the current uncertainty surrounding Brexit, we would advise you to contact us as far in advance of the anticipated export date as possible.

Find out more at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/export-horses-and-ponies-special-rules