The original deadline for the implementation of the new scheme was July 3, 2004. To avoid the particular risk of travel being disrupted during the busy summer season, however, the European Commission has offered a flexible solution to ensure that pets will have the necessary documents for travel. From July 3, 2004, all Member States will have to allow the entry of pets complying with the new rules. As a transitional measure until October 1, 2004, the entry of pets complying with existing national rules will also be allowed. These transitional measures also apply for pets coming from outside the EU.
For information on exactly how the new EU Pet Scheme will affect your post, go to the EU site.
Note regarding bloodwork:
The only approved laboratories in third countries are in Australia, Switzerland, Israel, and the United States. This means that those in other countries can expect to have to pay for the cost of the blood test in addition to the shipment cost.
