Vaccinating for rabies

Dear Connie,

I have had my dog Barney for seven years and every year he has had a vaccination against rabies but never had a passport as I was not intending to return to the UK.

However, I recently learnt that dogs are required by law to have a passport whether or not they are travelling abroad.

In January Barney was due for another rabies jab so, I also requested his passport.

I was told that the law had changed and that Barney only needs a rabies jab every other year.

He was issued with a passport and all his previous vaccinations were updated. I asked if he needed a blood test, as my other dog (which I’ve had since March last year), was given a blood test a month after her initial rabies jab and I received a certificate giving her the all clear.

I was advised a blood test was not required. Should he have one and as his last rabies vaccination was January last year should he have another booster now to be followed by a blood test in a month’s time?

I also read recently that pet passports should be carried by the owner at all times even if just going for a walk, is this correct?

Regards, Gillian

Hello Gillian,

Spanish law requires first and second rabies vaccination within a month and then YEARLY (not every two years).

Microchip and rabies vaccinations are obligatory therefore the police might want to see proof.

But they can read the microchip to verify rabies vaccinations (and deworming) has been done.

Best wishes, Connie