Pet Passports

Until a few years ago all animals entering the UK had to spend six months in quarantine. Quarantine means isolation from people and other animals.

The quarantine rule protected the UK against rabies or 'mad dog disease'. Rabies comes from fox or dog bites.

Quarantine was very difficult for pet owners. They didn't want to be away from their pets for six months.

The pet passport scheme maintains the UK's protection against rabies. But it makes life a lot easier for animals and their owners.

Listening Activity:

Listen to this short talk and answer the questions below:

Listen/Download Podcast

1. Are the following statements true or false?

a) It's now more difficult to take pets on flights

b) Only animals from some countries can have a pet passport.

c) Even with a pet passport animals still need to spend six months in quarantine.

d) All pets need to be vaccinated against rabies.

e) Vets provide the papers needed for the pet passport.

f) Getting a pet passport takes less than a week.

Answers

Vocabulary



Writing

1. A friend wants to take their pet to the UK. Write a set of instructions about how to do this.


Classroom activities

1. This is a version of the popular game, alibi.

a) A couple bring their pet to airport customs. The animal does not look like his passport photo and the customs officer(s) ask questions to try and confirm the identity of the animal.

b) The couple go outside the classroom to prepare a joint version of the life story of their pet.

c) Both owners are interviewed separately by the customs officers (other class members). They are then brought back together to explain the differences in their story