IRELAND OFF-LIMITS?
QCoronavirus regulations permitting, I’m thinking of taking a break in Northern Ireland later in the year, and I’d like to take my dog with me. Will there be any restrictions on taking a dog to Ireland? And if so, what will they be?
Stephen Latimer, Lancashire.
Stephen says: I’ve had some wonderful times with my dogs all over Ireland, and given the hospitality and scenery I can completely understand why you’d want to go. But these days there are two big reasons why I suggest you should think twice, or at least put it off this year.
Firstly, you’ll find access to the coast and countryside with a dog substantially restricted. Compared to England, Scotland, and Wales, Ireland has far fewer access rights and traditions, which means that access for walkers with dogs is often not allowed or severely restricted away from publicly owned land. It looks likely to be worse this year as allegations about irresponsible dog walking during COVID restrictions have led to even more opposition to public access. The more immediate problem is that contrary to what politicians claimed, Brexit has resulted in a border down the Irish Sea, meaning that travelling to both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland is now very highly regulated. So unlike when I last visited Northern Ireland when it was no different to visiting any other part of the UK, you now need an Animal Health Certificate each time you travel, rabies vaccinations, and tapeworm treatment administered by a vet.
● For more information, visit the Brexit Pet Travel Update page on the Kennel Club’s website; www.thekennelclub.org.uk