Guernsey pet owners express worries about revised winter ferry timetable

Jeanette Brache, a local dog owner, has expressed concerns about new regulations impacting pet owners whose animals compete in events in the UK and abroad. The Animal Health Certificate (AHC), required for entry into the EU, is valid for only one trip and costs around £200 per dog. Brache, who competes with her two Finnish Lapphunds, noted that this represents an added financial burden and creates logistics challenges, particularly given the limited ferry services between Guernsey and Portsmouth—only two direct sailings each week. These complications have already led her to reconsider participating in international dog shows. David Chamberlain, the States Veterinary Officer, mentioned that efforts are underway to look into possible exemptions for pets that stay on board during stops in Cherbourg to alleviate some of these challenges.