The import of pets into European Union countries from Russia and Belarus will be complicated by new requirements. This was reported by the Delfi portal on Saturday, May 18, citing the Lithuanian State Food and Veterinary Service. It is noted that pets will need to undergo mandatory serological testing for rabies antibodies, upon receiving the results of which the corresponding document will be issued. The new rules will come into effect on September 16 of this year. "Russia and Belarus have been excluded from the list of countries that effectively implement anti-rabies requirements. Last year, 63 animals transported for commercial purposes were not allowed into Lithuania due to discrepancies in accompanying documents, transport conditions, or the animal's identification number," explained Alicija Zarankovic, the Chief State Veterinarian of the Lithuanian Border Control Department. Rabies antibody tests must be conducted no earlier than 30 days after vaccination. All results must be ready no later than three months before the issuance of the veterinary certificate and the planned entry into the European Union. At the same time, the test result must be at least 0.5 IU/ml. Additionally, the pet must have an EU format veterinary certificate. In September last year, the European Commission confirmed a new provision in the sanctions legislation, according to which Russians can no longer enter EU countries in cars registered in Russia. This will be treated as prohibited import. In addition, Russians were also banned from transporting personal items, including mobile phones, laptops, cameras, cosmetics, jewelry, leather and fur products, suitcases, and even toilet paper.