It is now easier to take dogs and cats into Europe following the European Community's relaxation of quarantine restrictions on Hong Kong.

The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department said dogs and cats can enter provided:

* the animal is identified by a microchip;

* is accompanied by a pet passport (for animals of European origin) or equivalent health documentation which required endorsement from the department;

* has a valid anti rabies vaccination status; and,

* has been examined 24 hours before travelling by an approved veterinary surgeon and found to be in good health and able to withstand travel to the planned destination.

The certification is valid for four months in the EC and must then be renewed.

Additional requirements

* Finland requires the animal to be treated for hydatid tapeworm before travel;

* Sweden, Ireland and the UK require the animal has been blood tested for rabies antibodies at an approved laboratory at least 30 days after rabies vaccination and at least six months before travel;

* Sweden, Ireland and the UK require prior treatment for hydatid tapeworm and ticks within 48 hours of movement; and,

* For the UK, the animal can travel only via approved routes on approved carriers and must land at one of three specified airports. The carriers and routes are not yet approved and are the subject of current negotiation.

If the animal has visited another country which is not approved by the EC within six months of travelling to Europe, it is not eligible to enter the EC under the new arrangement.

Different conditions for other pets

Different conditions apply for other pets, such as rabbits or ferrets. The department advises owners to consult websites for the animal health authorities in the countries they are visiting, their vet or the department for the latest information before planning their trip.

The relaxation, effective November 23, was the result of detailed submissions by the department, presented by Hong Kong's Economic & Trade Office in Brussels, to seek recognition of the city's rabies-free status.

The EC has accepted the entry of dogs and cats from Hong Kong presents no greater risk of spreading rabies than such movements between member states.