British couple save money with EU passport for dog

A Worcestershire couple have obtained an EU passport for their dog to save money on travel costs post-Brexit.

David Nicholl, a consultant neurologist from Hagley, Worcestershire, and his wife Suzanne, registered their Jack Russell terrier Lily in Belgium, after travelling became "increasingly expensive".

They said the paperwork alone in the UK had risen from £170 to £280 for a return trip, not including fares.

Lily was born in Stourport and the couple visit Europe once or twice a year, with the idea coming from a local vet, Mr Nicholl said, adding: "Essentially, she's got freedom of canine movement now."

Explaining how it came about, Dr Nicholl said: "Last month, we went over to see my daughter in Amsterdam and then drove back through Belgium.

"Because you have to get the worming tablets before coming back in the tunnel, we just booked an appointment with the vets and sorted it."

Mrs Nicholl said: "It's £280 for one trip to Europe, return, if you're a British dog.

"If you're an EU dog, you pay for the passport, which is 80 euros for a whole year, so the difference is cost and ease – we haven't got to bother the vet before we go to France now.

"She's got that passport, so it goes in her little suitcase and Bob's your uncle."

In a visit to meet the jet-setting pooch, BBC Hereford and Worcester came up with a taste test to discover how Belgian Lily had become after gaining her new passport status.

Presented with a British dog biscuit and a piece of Belgian waffle, Lily went straight for the waffle.

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