AS a no-deal Brexit looms, the UK government issued new guidelines this week warning people to be prepared to factor in extra time travel and paperwork when travelling equines to and from the UK and the EU.

The update was issued by UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Rural Affairs and Biosecurity, Lord Gardiner of Kimble.

The guidance will help owners to navigate the new processes for moving horses and other equine animals from the UK to EU member states. It will also apply to those owners that currently move their animals between the UK, Ireland and France under the Tripartite Agreement (TPA) – an agreement relied on by many in the horseracing industry and the competition sector,” stated the document.

Lord Gardiner said: “While the Government is seeking a deal, we have stepped up our preparations and we will be ready to leave the EU on 31 October, whatever the circumstances. This guidance will help businesses and owners of horses prepare if we leave without a deal.”

DEFRA details that if the UK leaves the EU on October 31st without a deal:

  • Equines travelling from the UK to the EU may need to undergo additional blood tests, which will need to be carried out within 30 days or less of travelling to satisfy EU regulations
  • Owners will need to consult with a vet at least six weeks before they are planning to travel
  • All equines will need an Export Health Certificate in order to travel to EU states, instead of current documents, and will need to enter the EU via a Border Inspection Post (BIP)
  • Most equines will also need a Government-issued travel ID document, as well as their existing equine passport

    • London Calling

    While the UK government wants to continue movement on all equine animals from EU member states to support the racing and equestrian industry (including the major Olympia London International Horse Show (December 16th-22nd)), that depends on the outcome of the UK’s application to the European Commission to secure listed status.

    “If the UK is not provided with listed status by the European Commission, no movements of equines from the UK to the EU will be possible after we leave the EU until listed status is secured,” said Lord Gardiner.