] ...that's why pets being brought in from abroad had to go into quarantine for such a long time! (I don't know if that's still the case?)

Some new rule were enacted starting in January 2000. I understand that the rules were lessened because critters were finding their way onto the island country via the Chunnel. Since the potentially most dangerous animals were walking in unescorted and uninvited, the risk of rabies in the country increased. I presume this made it easier for the typical dog owner with a healthy pet and papers to prove vaccinations to avoid the dreaded six month quarantine. The requirements are still tough, but I see that I can now bring my treasured borzoi from the US to England without quarantine. One more impediment out of the way!

See www.defra.gov.uk for more details.