European dogs, cats and ferrets are to receive passports next year, allowing them to scamper freely across borders within most of the European Union.
The documents will have a blue cover, embossed with the yellow stars of the EU, and will contain a photograph of the pet and a code corresponding to its tattoo or microchip that will guarantee that it is free of rabies.
The EU Health Commissioner, Mr David Byrne, who is responsible for animal welfare, said the passports were an important development for pets and their owners.
However, the documents will be of no use to Mr Byrne's dachshunds, Heidi and Paddy, if they want to accompany him on holidays to west Cork as the passports are invalid in Ireland, Britain or Sweden.
Pets travelling within most of the EU need only prove that they have been vaccinated against rabies. Pets travelling to Ireland, Britain and Sweden need to have an antibody titration test several months after the rabies vaccination to check it has been effective.
Britain and Ireland also require pets to be treated for ticks and tapeworm as part of the Pets Travel Scheme (PETS).
The languages used on the passports will be English and the official language of the member-state where the passport is issued.
The words "European Union" and the name of the member-state will appear on the cover.
"This is great news for pet owners like myself. A pet passport will be accepted throughout the EU as proof that a pet has received the anti-rabies vaccination," said Mr Byrne
"It also makes it easier for vets to learn about the pet's medical history. This is a significant step for the free movement of people and their pets, and a step that was made possible by dramatic advances made in our fight against rabies. Rabies is now close to being totally eradicated from the EU."
