SEAFRANCE has taken 23 bookings for dogs to travel ahead of the new Pet Passport scheme that comes into effect today and allows Britons to take their animals on holiday.
Pets can now enter the UK without six months’ quarantine provided they have been microchipped, blood-tested and vaccinated against rabies before leaving the UK.
They must be treated for ticks and tape-worms 48hrs before returning to the UK.
Sales director Bill Laidlaw said: “I am very surprised that so many people want to take their dogs on holiday, but I don’t think it will be a big revenue stream for us.”
Dogs can travel with SeaFrance for £25 return, or free with Hoverspeed for bookings made before March 31. Brittany Ferries’ fare is £30 return.
n Portsmouth Port has installed a dogs’ toilet in the main car lane area for people who are taking their dogs to France.