Like many people across the UK and EU, our dog is part of the family. Leaving our cherished pet in a kennel while we travel is not an option we enjoy. The one time we did, she came back with a cough and was visibly distressed. We feel uncomfortable imposing on friends to look after her, too. Our pet is a calming presence in our hectic lives, encourages us to stay active, and patiently endures our busy schedules. She deserves a holiday with us when we have the opportunity to walk and spend quality time together.

Currently, while it is perfectly acceptable to take a pet with a UK Animal Health Certificate on a private leisure boat to the EU, returning with our furry family members is far from straightforward. The existing regulations dictate that pets can only return on approved public transport routes, primarily by car. This inconvenient and restrictive rule prevents private boat owners like us from enjoying family holidays in France and throughout the EU, adding unnecessary strain to our travel plans.

The EU is open to welcoming UK-certified pets and operates a comprehensive Pet Passport Scheme. However, the UK's current rules do not fully align with this scheme, leaving pet owners in a bind. We believe that now is the time to amend these regulations, allowing pets to return on private leisure boats just as they can travel out. Such a change would not only enhance the enjoyment of countless family holidays but also align the UK's practices with broader EU standards. There are many border control procedures in place checking boats returning to the UK and so the 'pet check' would be a minor matter to add.

We urge the relevant authorities to revisit and revise this travel policy, making it easier and more practical for pet owners to travel freely with their beloved animals. Join us in our appeal to ensure that our pets can join us on our journeys without unnecessary restrictions or stress. Please sign this petition to bring about the much-needed change for the benefit of all pet owners and their four-legged family members.