For the past 13 years, I, along with many thousands of other conscientious pet owners, have been using the pet passport system to travel to Europe with my dog. This system was not only efficient and straightforward but also ensured the welfare and comfort of our pets while travelling. However, the recent introduction of the Animal Health Certificate (AHC) has disrupted this seamless process and imposed unnecessary red tape and financial burdens on pet owners.

The previous pet passport system was a well-oiled machine that allowed dog owners to travel with ease, maintaining both convenience and health standards. Yet, the government's decision to replace it with the costly AHC is seen by many, including myself, as a thinly veiled attempt to grab money from responsible citizens striving to do right by their pets. According to the latest data, the cost of an AHC is significantly higher than that of a pet passport, causing considerable financial strain on frequent travellers.

The emotional toll of these unnecessary changes cannot be understated. Imagine planning a trip only to be met with confusing paperwork and exorbitant costs that could have been easily avoided. The AHC demands the renewal every single trip, adding layers of complexity and cost each time a pet owner wishes to travel, unlike the pet passport which offered multi-trip validity.

We demand the reinstatement of the pet passport system not only because it worked but also because it provided a pragmatic and pet-friendly approach to international travel. The government should prioritize the welfare of our pets and the ease of travel for citizens by restoring this proven solution.

Please join me in calling on Parliament to reconsider their decision and bring back the pet passport. Your signature will help show our leaders that this change matters greatly to many pet owners who simply wish to travel without undue hassle and expense. Sign the petition to make our voices heard and protect the bond between owners and their beloved pets on their European adventures.