Brits have been warned about a new change that has come into effect today (Wednesday, April 22). New EU rules have been put in place for those travelling from Great Britain to the EU with their pets. While Brits are still allowed to travel to EU countries, there have been changes to the non-commercial movement of pet dogs, cats and ferrets entering the EU from GB.

GB residents can no longer use EU pet passports to travel into the EU, as the passports can now only be issued to people whose main home is in the EU. Those who have a holiday home or visit the EU seasonally also cannot use EU pet passports, and any passports issued to GB residents before April 22 may no longer be valid for entry.

As a result, Brits may be required to use a different document to take their pet to the EU. Pet owners have been advised to get an Animal Health Certificate for their dog, cat or ferrets if they are travelling from England, Wales and Scotland to an EU country.

You will be required to use a new AHC for each trip from Britain to the EU. However, the certificate can be used for up to 6 months for onward travel within the EU and for re-entry to GB, provided rabies vaccinations remain valid.

Pet owners should always check the entry requirements for a destination country before travelling, as individual member states may have additional pet travel requirements.

The change applies only to Brits entering an EU country with their pets; GB residents can still use EU pet passports for their return to GB.

If someone else is travelling with your pet, you will need extra paperwork, and if you're not travelling with your pet, then they must travel within five days of you travelling. The person accompanying the animal must also have written permission from the owner, which must be with the pet's travel document.

As well as changes to travel documents, there is a new five-pet-per-private-vehicle limit, meaning non-commercial travel into the EU is now limited to a maximum of five pets per private vehicle, rather than five per person. The existing limit of five pets per person travelling on foot remains the same. Exceptions apply to pets travelling to competitions, events, or training, provided specific conditions are met.

An APHA spokesperson said: "From 22 April, new EU rules change how GB residents travel to the EU with their pets, but holidays with your pets are still possible.

"Anyone planning to travel should check guidance on GOV.UK, and the entry rules for their destination.

"To avoid delays and ensure a smooth journey, pet owners residing in Great Britain should get an Animal Health Certificate if they're travelling from Great Britain to an EU country.