The rule
- A vet must give the treatment no less than 24 hours and no more than 5 days (120 hours) before you enter Great Britain.
- The product must contain praziquantel (or an equivalent proven effective against Echinococcus multilocularis) and be approved in the country where it is given.
- The vet records the product name and manufacturer, the date and time of treatment, and their stamp and signature on your dog's certificate.
- It applies every time you bring your dog to Great Britain.
Who doesn't need it
Dogs coming directly to Great Britain from Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Malta or Norway. Cats don't need tapeworm treatment.
How to time it
- Book the vet visit 2–3 days before your flight. Even with a long flight you land well inside the window.
- Delayed by more than 5 days after the treatment? Your dog may need a new one.
- Live in Great Britain and coming home? GOV.UK advises treating your dog again within 28 days of returning.
The other UK surprise: hold only
Pets can't fly in the cabin on flights into Great Britain — only recognised assistance dogs can. Everyone else travels in the hold on an approved airline and route, so check the GOV.UK list of approved routes before you book.
Get every date worked out for your trip
A free check of your route, or a personal PDF plan with calendar reminders before each deadline.
Build my planOfficial sources: www.gov.uk · www.gov.uk · www.gov.uk. Not legal or veterinary advice — confirm with your vet, your airline and the official authority.
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