Exotic disease threats from pet travel, importation and changing parasite distributions in Europe*

Exotic disease threats from pet travel

Pet travel and importation into the UK has increased year on year since the pet travel scheme (PETS) was relaxed in 2012. This is occurring at a time of rapid spread of parasitic diseases and their vectors. This combination of factors is increasing the risk of pets encountering these agents while abroad and bringing them back to the UK. Climate change and the presence of some parasite vectors already in this country are also increasing the risk of some of these parasites becoming established in endemic foci. Vets and veterinary nurses are at the front line of national biosecurity and must be prepared to give accurate travel advice to clients, remain up to date with latest parasite distributions on the continent, and engage in parasite and tick surveillance in pets entering the country. This article highlights some of the parasites that must be considered in travelling and imported pets, their current distribution in Europe and some of the principals of foreign parasite control.