travel with dog to uk

Pet Travel - Can I Bring My Dog With Me to the UK?

The withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union (a move known as "Brexit") formally occurred on January 31, 2020. Following that departure is a transition period lasting until December 31, 2020, during which the U.K. and E.U. will negotiate the terms of their future relationship. This article has been updated as of the January 31st withdrawal, and you can find up-to-date information about details of the transition on the U.K.'s government website .

Yes you can bring your dog, cat or ferret into the UK without having to park them in quarantine. You just have to follow a few important rules. A lot of people still think that if they bring their pets with them into the UK they'll have to put them into a quarantine kennel for six months. Old ideas die hard. It's actually much easier, and kinder for pets and their owners, these days.

The Pet Travel Scheme, known as PETS, has been in effect in the UK for more than 15 years. It's a system that permits pet travel to the UK. Dogs, cats and even ferrets can enter or re-enter the UK from  qualified EU countries and non-EU "listed" countries . Listed countries include named non-EU countries in Europe and elsewhere. Pet travel from the USA, Canada, Mexico , Australia and New Zealand are included. 

In a change from the old quarantine regulations, pets that comply with the PETS rules for EU countries can enter the UK without quarantine from almost anywhere in the world. There are just a few exceptions and extra waiting periods.

What pet owners must do

Preparing your animal for pet travel under the PETS scheme is not complicated but you need to plan ahead and get the process in the works well ahead of time - at least four months if you are traveling from outside the EU. Here is what's required:

• Have your pet microchipped - Your vet can carry this out and it is not painful for the animal. It must be done first, before any inoculation. If your dog has been inoculated against rabies before being microchipped, it will have to be done again.
• Rabies vaccination - Have your pet vaccinated against rabies after being microchipped. There is no exemption from this requirement, even if the animal already had been vaccinated.
• Blood test   for pets entering from outside the EU  - After a 30-day waiting period, your vet should test your animal to make sure that the rabies vaccination has succeeded in giving sufficient protection. Dogs and cats entering from and vaccinated within EU or non-EU listed countries do not have to have a blood test.
• The 3-week/3-month rule  The first time your pet is prepared to travel under the PETS system, you must wait three weeks before you can travel and return to the UK if you are coming into the UK from an EU or listed country. The day of the vaccination counts as day 0 and you must wait a further 21 days. If you are traveling to the UK from an unlisted country outside the EU, your pet must have a blood test 30 days after the vaccination (with the vaccination day counting as day 0) and then wait a further three months after the valid blood test before the animal can enter the UK.
• PETS Documents Once your animal has passed all the required waiting periods and has had a valid blood test, if that is required, the vet will issue PETS documentation. In EU countries, this will be an EU PETS Passport. If you are traveling to the UK from a Non-EU country, your vet must complete a Model Third Country Official Veterinary Certificate which you can download from the PETS website.  No other certificate will be accepted. You must also sign a declaration stating that you do not intend to sell or transfer ownership of the animal.
• Tapeworm treatment Just before you enter the UK, your dog must be treated against tapeworm. This must be done not more than 120 hours (5 days) before entering the UK and not less than 24 hours. This treatment must be carried out by a licensed vet every time your pet enters the UK. If your dog does not have this treatment during the required period, it can be refused entry and placed into a 4 month quarantine. Dogs entering the UK from Finland, Ireland, Malta and Norway do not have to be treated for tapeworm.

Once you've fulfilled all the requirements, your animal will be free to travel to the UK as long as rabies vaccinations are kept up to date.

There are some exceptions. Pets coming to the UK from Jamaica must be prepared for travel under the PETS requirements in a different country, outside Jamaica. Special extra requirements apply to cats coming to the UK from Australia and for dogs and cats arriving from Peninsular Malaysia.

What else should I know?

Only certain carriers are authorized to transport pets under the PETS system. Before you make your travel arrangements, check the list of authorized carriers for air, rail and sea travel to the UK. The authorized routes and transport companies can change or may only operate certain times of year so check before you travel. If you don't arrive via an approved route, your pet may be refused entry and place in the 4-month quarantine.

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Top tips for traveling with your dog in Britain this summer

Jul 28, 2022 • 6 min read

A golden retriever on a walk through the English countryside © monkeybusinessimages / Getty

It’s true, the Brits love their dogs.

In fact, 27% of United Kingdom households include a dog (or two or three) as part of their family. The 2020 and 2021 pandemic lockdowns only added to their canine love affair with online searches on "how to adopt a puppy" surging by 120% in Britain, while waiting lists for popular breeds closed because demand outstripped supply.

Now all these pet-owning families are planning their holidays in Britain and turning to resources like Dog Friendly Destinations , Dog Friendly Britain: Cool Places to Stay with Your Dog and latest guide to hit the market Dog-Friendly Weekends for inspiration for their next travel adventure with their new best friend. 

Why you have to take your dog on holiday?

For many dog owners going away for a break without their doggo is such an emotional wrench it has the potential to ruin a holiday. Most wouldn’t dream of leaving their dog with anyone else, so pet-friendly accommodation is booming. And it’s not just country pubs and small hotels that are setting themselves up to cater for dogs. You’ll find remote cabins, luxury hotels, cosy gastropubs, boutique B&Bs, yurts and glamping spots across the country happy to go the extra mile to host your furry companion. As well as offering great places to stay, and to eat, many are in stunning locations to explore on long walks with your canine buddy. Can you think of a better way to vacation?

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What to look out for when booking a dog-friendly stay

We asked Lottie Gross, author of Dog-Friendly Weekends for her top tips on how to spot a great place to stay with your dog. “Plenty of hotels and accommodation providers say they're dog friendly, but are actually just dog tolerant,” Lottie told Lonely Planet. 

“To find a genuinely dog-friendly stay, look out for the little added extras, such as bowls and beds provided in the room, treats on arrival or even outdoor showers for post-muddy walk washes. These are signs that the accommodation has really thought about what dog owners need.

“Also, check the property's dog rules. There's nothing worse than having to spend the entire time telling your dog off if they're not allowed on the bed or sofa (or you could just bring a couple of throws to protect the furniture so you can snuggle up soundly together).

Author of Dog Friendly Britain: Cool Places to Stay with Your Dog Martin Dunford also shared: “What surprised me was the length some places go to cater for dogs and their owners, even in a city like London. One hotel in the city even holds dog film nights and dog tea parties. And the staff at all of these places have a super-friendly attitude.”  

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How to be a good dog-owning holidaymaker 

Finding a place that welcomes you and your pooch with open arms and goes the extra mile will make your holiday with your dog a happier one. But it’s also worth noting that dog owners need to be considerate when they’re traveling too, especially in nature.

“The most important thing when traveling with your dog is to be responsible and sustainable”, explains Lottie. “That means keeping your dog on a leash when in new environments where you don't know what wildlife might be disturbed by their presence (ground-nesting birds, for example), and picking up and properly disposing of that poo. Regardless of whether it's off the path or in the middle of a farmer's field, dog poo is toxic and you should always pick it up to ensure it doesn't damage the ecology of the area.”

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Things to consider when catching the train with your dog

While it’s easy to hop in a car and head off on a mini-break with your dogs, not everyone in the UK has access to a car. The good news is that holidaying with a dog is very achievable by train in Britain. 

Brighton barber, Buck Rumstache , adopted his rescue pup McKenzie from Wood Green, The Animals Charity in 2019, and goes on regular getaways together. “It doesn’t cost any extra to take your dog on a train in the UK,” Buck explained, “And I have found staff are always super excited to see him, and are generally really accommodating.”

You do need to consider how far you want to travel by train with your dog before booking those train tickets. “I usually try not to travel for more than two hours on a train with McKenzie,” says Buck.  “If I was going to go further afield, like say one of my favorite British destinations, Whitby , I plan a decent break somewhere along the way to take my dog for a walk and a toilet break.”

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Places to stay with you dog in 2022

Luxury stay at Cliveden House, Thames Valley

Set in 376 acres of National Trust gardens and woodlands, this five-star luxury hotel has played host to movie stars and royalty over its 300-year history. It also gives four-legged guests the royal treatment with their own towel, food bowls, and a doggie bed, not to mention dog-friendly dining options at the onsite Astor Grill, and miles of woodland paths to explore. Doggie guests must be well-behaved and over a year old. And during the school holidays, they get to stay for free. 

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Self-catering cottages by East Ruston Cottages in Norfolk

Recommended by Lottie Gross, the cottages available through East Ruston Cottages in Norfolk (winners of the self-catering accommodation category in the Dog-Friendly Magazine awards in 2019, 2020 and 2021) are designed for dogs "with humans in mind". They offer everything a dog owner needs (including cooling coats and mats for hot weather), plus they all have enclosed gardens and let you know if the place will be suitable for different dog types. All of them are a short traveling distance to dog-friendly beaches.

15 top things to do in England, from the obvious to the adventurous and unusual

Camping with your doggo across the United Kingdom

The online campers website Pitchup has listings for over 5000 campsites, glamping spots and holiday parks that can be filtered for dog-friendly options. You’ll find places to stay with your dog from farmers' fields to shepherd’s huts which welcome dogs and their owners. Listings are dotted all over England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and can be filtered by recommended or user ratings. So pack that tent, a sleeping bag and your camping-friendly canine companions and sleep out in the great outdoors this summer. 

Local tips to know before traveling to England

Unwind with yoga, a spa or a gong bath at Retreat East, Suffolk Coast

Set on the Suffolk Coast, this former dairy farm now hosts guests and their dogs in a country house or surrounding luxury barns . There’s also an onsite spa, yoga classes and sound meditation so why not book some pet-sitting and pamper yourself while you’re here. And for families with more than one pooch, there’s good news: two dogs can stay per barn. Pets are expected to be kept on lead in communal areas of course.

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UK Pet Passport – Bringing Pets to the UK (GB 2023 Regulations)

When bringing pets to the UK, strict rules apply. The rules for bringing pets to Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland) are different to bringing pets to Ireland, as Ireland is still part of the EU. In this article we will discuss the rules and regulations to get a UK Pet Passport to bring pets to GB. 

Getting a UK Pet Passport to bring pets to the UK (GB) is easy and will just take 4 simple steps:

• Check if you can bring your pet to GB –  you can enter or return to GB with your pet dog, cat or ferret if (1) it has been microchipped, (2) has a pet passport or health certificate and (3) if it has been vaccinated against rabies. You will also require a blood test if you are traveling from an unlisted country.
• Get your pet microchipped –  you can get your pet microchipped at the vet. This will be a quick appointment. More information on this to follow. 
• Get your pet vaccinated against rabies –  your dog, cat or ferret will require a rabies vaccination before traveling to GB. More information on this to follow. 
• Get a pet travel document –  the documents required depend on where you are travelling from. There are ‘Part 1’ listed countries, ‘Part 2’ listed countries and unlisted countries. The rules for each vary. More information on this to follow. 

Dogs may also require tapeworm treatment unless you are traveling directly from Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Malta or Norway. 

We will discuss all of the above in detail below. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• What is a UK Pet Passport?
• What does a Pet Passport UK contain?
• How do I get a UK Pet passport?
• Rabies Vaccination
• Pet Travel Documents
• Parasite treatment
• Rabies titer test
• Permits & licenses
• What are species-specific requirements for a UK Pet Passport?
• Flying into the UK with pets
• Which airlines will allow flying pets to the UK?
• Guidelines for pet carriers
• How much does a Pet passport UK cost?
• What are the requirements to return to the UK after travel?
• Can my pet travel to UK with an EU Pet Passport?

Can I bring my puppy or kitten to the UK?

• Is it possible to relocate to the UK with my pet?

Bottom Line

What is a UK Pet Passport for GB?

‘UK Pet Passport’ is a term used to describe the documents that are required to travel to the UK with a pet. Customs officials will need to see these documents in order to clear your pet. Essentially, a pet passport demonstrates that your pet is fit and healthy to travel. With a Pet Passport for GB, in most circumstances, your pet will not have to face a lengthly quarantine period. 

Generally, dogs, cats and ferrets will require a microchip , rabies vaccination , parasite treatment (dogs only) and either a Pet Passport or an animal health certificate . However, if you are traveling from a country GB considers to be high-risk for rabies, your dog, cat or ferret will also need a rabies titer test . If you are bringing pets to the UK for commercial reasons, or if you are traveling to the UK with a pet other than a dog, cat or ferret, you will need an import permit . The regulations differ for other pet species, we will discuss this below. 

What does a UK Pet Passport contain?

A UK Pet Passport (GB) contains all the documents required to enter GB with your pet. Essentially, it will prove that your pet is fit and healthy enough to travel. Pet Passports are required to ensure imported pets don’t pose as a health threat to other animals.

A Pet Passport UK (GB) can contain any of the following information:

• Details of ownership (name, address, passport number, telephone, etc.)
• Description of the animal (name, species, breed, date of birth, etc.)
• Official veterinarian’s details
• Rabies vaccination certificate
• Microchip details
• Health certificate
• Parasite treatment records
• Additional vaccinations recorded and treatment records
• An optional photo
• Rabies antibody titer test results

UK pet passport for dogs, cats and ferrets will usually contain those listed 1-6 at minimum. Those listed 7-10 are potential requirements that your pet may need, if you are traveling from a high-risk rabies country, or if you are traveling with other pet species. We will go into more detail below.

All records must be signed and stamped by your official veterinarian with official stickers from the medication used.

How do I get a UK Pet Passport?

Check that your pet is able to travel with you. 

There are specific requirements for different species entering GB. Generally, dogs, cats and ferrets will require the following:

• Tapeworm Treatment (dogs only)
• Pet Passport OR Animal Health Certificate

For detailed information on the requirements of bringing pets to the UK, check the requirements section below.

For more details on specific requirements for different species skip to the ‘What are species-specific requirements for a UK Pet Passport? ‘ section.

VISIT YOUR VET

Dogs, cats and ferrets will need a microchip and rabies vaccination. All pets will also require an animal health certificate (AHC), if you do not have a pet passport issued before January 2021. If you are traveling from a ‘List 1’ or ‘List 2’ country , you will only need one vet visit. 

When booking the appointment, inform your vet where you and your pet are heading to, so they can prepare your pet’s vaccinations. 

Only dogs, cats and ferrets require a microchip and rabies vaccination. Other pet’s such as rabbits, rodents and birds do not require microchipping or vaccinations.

At your appointment, your vet will first administer your pet’s microchip, and then your pet’s rabies vaccination. It is important that they microchip your pet first as the vaccination will not be valid. 

Your vet will then review and stamp all your paperwork. The appointment should take no longer than half an hour.

For more detailed information on the requirements skip to ‘ What are the requirements for a Pet Passport UK? ‘.

SECOND VET VISIT

Traveling from a ‘List 1’ or ‘List 2’ Country

If you do not have a pet passport, you will need an animal health certificate issued within 10 days of bringing pets to the UK (GB). 

The reason you must book a second vet appointment to obtain your pet’s animal health certificate, is because you must wait 21 days after your pet’s primary rabies vaccination. 

Traveling from an Unlisted Country

In order to bring pets to the UK (GB) from an unlisted country, your pet will require a rabies titer test, or a rabies blood test.

You will need to wait 30 days after your pet’s primary or booster vaccination in order to have a rabies titer test. Once your pet has passed the test, they can enter the UK no sooner than 3 months after the date the blood was drawn.

We will go into more detail in the rabies titer test section below.

APPLY FOR LICENSING & PERMITS

Not all pets will require an import permit. You will not require a permit for bringing dogs, cats and ferrets into Great Britain. You also won’t require permits for bringing pets into GB from the EU. However, you will need to apply for an import license if bringing certain animals into GB from outside the EU . 

Bringing in Animals from an non-EU Country

In order to bring a pet rodent or rabbit into GB from outside the EU, you will need to get a rabies import license. They will also need to quarantine for 4 months upon arrival. 

You can use form RM01 to apply for a licence to import live animals covered by the Rabies Order (Importation of Dogs, Cats and Other Mammals) 1974. 

The GOV website shares a detailed guide on how to complete the form. 

In order to bring a pet bird into GB , you need to travel from an approved country. You will also require a health certificate and a pet bird import license from the Centre for International Trade in Carlisle. 

Centre for International Trade: Carlisle [email protected] Telephone: 03000 200 301 Fax: 0208 0260 498 Find out about call charges

Centre for International Trade: Carlisle Eden Bridge House Lowther Street Carlisle CA3 8DX

Bringing in Animals from an EU Country

There are no restrictions on bringing pet rabbits, rodents, invertebrates, amphibians and reptiles to GB from EU countries. 

In order to bring a pet bird to GB, from an EU country, you will need a health certificate.

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Great Britain – Listed & Unlisted Countries

‘Part 1’ listed countries

Great Britain accepts pet passports or a Great Britain pet health certificate from the following countries (known as Part 1 listed countries):

EU  countries , Andorra, Azores and Madeira, Canary Islands, French Guiana, Gibraltar, Greenland and the Faroe Islands, Guadeloupe, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Martinique, Mayotte (French territory), Monaco, Norway, Réunion (French territory), Saint Barthélemy (French Territory), San Marino, Saint Martin (French part of the island – French territory), Switzerland, Vatican City State

‘Part 2’ listed countries

Great Britain accepts a Great Britain pet health certificate from the following countries (known as Part 2 listed countries):

Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Aruba, Ascension Island, Australia, Bahrain, Barbados, Belarus, Bermuda, BES Islands (Bonair, Saint Eustatius and Saba), Bosnia-Herzegovina, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Cayman Islands, Chile, Curaçao, Falkland Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Japan, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Montserrat, New Caledonia, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Russian Federation, Saint Maarten, Singapore, St Helena, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Pierre and Miquelon, St Vincent and The Grenadines, Taiwan, Trinidad and Tobago, United Arab Emirates, USA (includes American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the US virgin Islands), Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna.

Great Britain does not accept a pet passport from these countries.

Countries that are not listed

If your country is not listed, you’ll need a Great Britain pet health certificate. Your pet will also have to follow specific rules on rabies, vaccinations and blood tests.

How long does it take to get a Pet Passport UK?

It will take roughly between 1 month and 4 months to get a UK pet passport to bring a pet into the UK . The time depends on where you are traveling from, and the species of your pet.

If traveling to the UK with a dog, cat or ferret from a ‘List 1’ or ‘List 2’ country, you will just need a quick visit to the vet. In this case, your pet will just require a microchip, rabies vaccination and animal health certificate. Dogs may also require a tapeworm treatment administered by a vet, between 1 and 5 days prior to entering GB. Health certificates must be obtained within 10 days of entering GB, and must be endorsed if traveling from the US and Canada.

However, if you are traveling from a country the UK deems as high-risk of rabies, it will take 3 months longer. This is because your dog, cat or ferret will require a rabies titer test to ensure their rabies vaccination was successful. Firstly, you must wait 30 days after your pet’s primary or booster rabies vaccination before taking the rabies titer test. Secondly, you must wait for your pet’s results. Lastly, if your pet passes the rabies titer test, you must wait at least 3 months before entering GB.

To save time, when making an appointment be sure to advise the veterinarian staff that you want to get a pet passport. This will ensure that they have everything required in stock and will allow them time to prepare.

What are the requirements for a bringing a pet to the UK (GB)?

Depending on your pet’s species, age and where you are traveling from, the requirements for bringing a pet to the UK (GB) can be any of the following:

• Rabies vaccination
• Pet Passport or Animal Health certificate
• Parasite treatments

MICROCHIPPING

Dogs, cats and ferrets must be microchipped in order to obtain a UK pet passport for GB. It is also a requirement for entering most countries. Other pet species do not require microchipping. 

A microchip is a permanent method of electronic identification. The chip is around the size of a grain of rice – and is implanted just under your pet’s skin between its shoulder blades. Each chip has a unique number that is detected using a microchip scanner.

Not only is it a requirement to enter GB with a dog, cat or ferret, it is highly recommended your pet is microchipped. This is because if you were to lose your pet while, a microchip makes it far more likely that you will be reunited.

We recommend that microchipping your pet is the first step you take when bringing a pet to the UK (GB). This is because your pet’s rabies vaccination won’t be valid unless your pet is microchipped first.

RABIES VACCINATION

When bringing pets to the UK (GB), all dogs, cats and ferrets must have proof of a current rabies vaccination, administered after a microchip was implanted. The timing of your pet’s rabies vaccination depends on where you are traveling from. Other pet species do not require rabies vaccinations. 

Your pet’s first rabies vaccination is called their primary vaccination and should be a 1 year vaccine unless the manufacturer specifies it as a primary vaccine. if your pet’s primary vaccination expired before you had a chance to apply a booster vaccine, their next vaccine will act as the primary.

Booster vaccines are all vaccines applied after the primary vaccine, as long as it is still valid. Great Britain accepts 3 year rabies vaccinations, but only as a booster vaccine and not a primary.

In order to bring pets to the UK (GB), dogs, cats and ferrets will need their primary vaccination administered no sooner than 21 days before travel. However, there is no waiting period after booster vaccinations as long as:

• the previous vaccination was administered after a microchip was implanted AND
• the booster vaccination was administered before the previous vaccination had expired.

Once your pet has entered the UK, a 21 waiting period is not required for any subsequent visits, as long as your pet’s rabies vaccinations are up to date.

Traveling from an unlisted country

You will need to wait 30 days after your dog, cat or ferret’s rabies vaccination, and do a rabies titer test. Please check the rabies titer test section below for more information.

PET PASSPORT OR ANIMAL HEALTH CERTIFICATE (AHC)

You will need either a pet passport or an animal health certificate, depending on where you are traveling from.

If you are traveling from either Northern Ireland, The Channel Islands or The Isle of Man, you will not require this documentation. 

You will need one of the following documents to bring a pet to Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland):

• a pet passport, if you’re travelling from a ‘Part 1’ listed country, or if it was issued in Great Britain before 1 January 2021
• an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued in Great Britain – valid up to 4 months after it was issued
• a Great Britain pet health certificate, if you’re travelling from a ‘Part 2’ or ‘not listed’ country, or a ‘Part 1’ country that does not issue pet passports

You can check whether your departing country is listed as Part 1, Part 2 or if it is unlisted here. 

You can obtain your pet’s pet passport, or AHC at your vet. 

RABIES TITER TEST

If you are bringing pets to the UK (GB) from an unlisted country , your dog, cat or ferret will require a rabies blood test to show that their rabies vaccination was successful. This doesn’t apply to other pet species.

• Your pet must have a blood sample taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
• Your vet must then send the blood sample to an approved blood testing laboratory.
• Your pet’s blood test results must show a rabies antibody level of at least 0.5 IU/ml.
• You must wait 3 months from the date the blood sample was taken before you travel – this doesn’t apply if your pet was vaccinated, blood tested and given a pet passport  in the  EU  before travelling to an unlisted country.
• The vet must give you a copy of the test results and enter the day the blood sample was taken in a  third-country official veterinary certificate .

TAPEWORM TREATMENT (DOGS ONLY)

In order to get a UK Pet Passport to import pets to GB , dogs will need to be treated against tapeworm.

This doesn’t apply to cats or other pet species. 

This also doesn’t apply if you are traveling directly from Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Malta or Norway.

Your dog must be treated against tapeworms between 24 hours (1 day) and 120 hours (5 days) before entering the UK. If you fail to have your dog treated within this time scale, then he or she may be put into quarantine for up to 4 months.

The tapeworm treatment must be administered by a vet. Over the counter treatments will not be valid.

PERMITS & LICENSES

TRAVELING TO THE UK

Traveling with animals other than dogs, cats and ferrets

Pets other than dogs, cats and ferrets traveling into GB should travel with an import license (form RM01). The following animals are permitted:

You can apply for an import permit by completing this form .

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) will use the information you provide on the licence form to decide if any animals you’re importing need to be quarantined.

Contact APHA to find out:

• if you’re eligible to apply for a licence
• how long a licence lasts for
• what happens if you lose your licence

Traveling with protected animal species (CITES)

You will need a CITES permit if you are bringing an animal that is in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.

If you are traveling with a domestic dog or cat, then you will not need a CITES permit, this is generally just the case for reptiles and parrot species. You can check whether your pet is protected here .

Transit through a high-rabies country

If your pet transits through a high-rabies country, then a Transit Declaration will be required stating that your pet has had no contact with rabies-carrying animals and remained secured within the airplane or airport.

What are species-specific requirements for taking pets to the UK?

TAKING DOGS TO GB

To take dogs to GB you require the following:

• Rabies vaccination (1 year and 3 year vaccinations are accepted)
• Animal health certificate or pet passport
• Tapeworm treatment

TAKING CATS TO GB

To take cats to GB you require the following:

• Animal health certificate or pet passport 

TAKING RODENTS & LAGOMORPHS (RABBITS) TO GB

To take rodents and rabbits to GB you require the following:

• Import permit ( RM01 Form )

To take pet birds to GB you require the following:

• Pet bird import license from the Center for International Trade in Carlisle (traveling from non EU countries only)

TAKING HORSES TO GB

To take horses to GB you require the following:

• Import permit
• An EU -approved studbook
• A national branch of an international body for sporting or competition purposes test
• Equine infectious anaemia test (within 30 days before travel)
• Equine viral arteritis test (within 21 days before travel for uncarstrated male equines that are older than 180 days, unless they meet vaccination requirements)

TAKING REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS TO GB

To take pet reptiles and amphibians to GB you require the following:

• not for sale
• fit and healthy
• able to complete the journey safely

Flying into the UK with a pet

Whether you are flying with your pet or it will be flying without you, it is important to choose an airline that serves the entire route from beginning to end. Before selecting an airline you will need to check their pet policies to ensure that they will allow your pet to fly. Will the airline allow your dog or cat to fly in the cabin with you? What are the restrictions? Will your pet need to travel in the cargo hold? Another option for airline pet travel is by private charter. Although this is more expensive than commercial airlines, pets will fly in the cabin with their owners in luxury, regardless of their size.

BEFORE YOU FLY

You are permitted to bring up to 5 dogs, cats or ferrets with you – if you are planning on bringing more you will need to submit a request to the Import of Products, Animals, Food & Feed System (IPAFFS) .

Book your flight with an approved carrier and on an approved route – you can check approved airlines and airports here , and approved sea and rail routes and companies here . 

Ensure you have the correct carrier – pets are required to travel in an appropriate cage according to its size and weight. The requirements will differ depending on your airline.

ONCE YOU LAND

Clinical examination and document check – after arrival a quarantine officer will verify your pet’s veterinary health certificate and vaccination records. Additionally, your pet will have a clinical examination/quarantine observation to ensure your pet is healthy and disease free. If your pet is free from any clinical illness as well as the documents including veterinary certificate/ vaccination records are found in order, quarantine isn’t usually required. However, if the pet is detected with any signs of clinical illness during inspection, then they will be placed in quarantine.

FLIGHT OPTIONS

Accompanied cargo / in the cabin – this is only an option for those of you who are flying with assistant animals, and if your chosen airline allows this.

Manifest cargo – unless your pet is an emotional support animal, they will need to travel as manifest cargo. Manifest cargo is a system wherein the import of pet is done using the airline cargo. If the pet is being transported in this manner, the documents must include of copy of the passport of the owner/caretaker, a copy of the owner/caretaker’s e-ticket and a copy of the air way bill.

Private charter – if you and your pet are flying into the UK on a private aircraft, you must enter at Biggin Hill, Blackpool, Cambridge, Doncaster, Farmborough, Sheffield, Stansted, London Ashford or London Oxford. This is only allowed if your private charter is approved to transport live animals to these airports.

What airlines allow flying a pets to the UK?

Most airlines allow flying pets to the UK. However, depending on the airline you fly with, pet policies differ.

When flying with a pet, it’s important to check airline pet policies before booking any travel. Different airline’s have different rules for flying with pets, including which breeds are allowed, the size and weight of pets that are permitted, and the number of pets they allow. Fees also vary between airlines.

Most airlines will allow pets to fly in the cargo section of their planes, in a climate controlled, comfortable pet zone. Although some pet owners think this will be stressful for their pets, it can actually be a lot calmer than flying in the cabin.

Some airlines will allow pets to fly in the cabin with their owners, but generally only small dogs and cats that weigh under 8kg are permitted. This is because they must fly inside an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of their owners. This isn’t permitted when flying pets in the UK, unless your dog, cat or ferret is a registered assistant animal and your airline approves this.

For a list of airlines that allow pets to fly in the cabin with their owners, check:

• 13 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In-Cabin [Prices & Policies]
• 13 Airlines That Allow Flying With a Cat In-Cabin [Prices & Policies]
• Which Airlines Allow Ferrets In Cabin? [Policies & Prices]
• 7 Airlines that Allow Rabbits in the Plane Cabin [Policies & Prices]

For a list of airlines that allow other pets on their planes, check: 

• 13 Airlines That Allow Pet Birds on Planes [Policies & Prices]
• 7 Airlines That Allow Pet Snakes on Planes [Policies & Prices]
• 7 Airlines That Allow Lizards on Planes [Policies & Prices]
• 7 Airlines That Allow Rodents on Planes [Policies & Prices]
• Which Airlines Allow Hedgehogs on Planes? [Policies & Prices]

Guidelines for Pet Carriers

If you are flying to the UK with a pet, it is important that you use a pet carrier that is approved by your airline. Different airlines have different pet carrier policies, which often vary between aircrafts and routes. Check that your pet carrier is approved for your chosen airline, aircraft and route. 

The rules and regulations have been set out by International Air Transport Association (IATA) ensure that pets are comfortable when travelling. Thus, inside their travel carriers, pets must be able to stand up, turn around and lie down in a natural position in their kennel (without touching any side or the top of the container).

Furthermore, the rules for pet carriers also vary depending on whether your pet will be flying in the cabin or cargo area of the plane.

If you are travelling in the cabin with your dog or cat, then you will need to ensure that the carrier fits under the seat in front of you. This is why, generally, only small dogs and cats weighing under 7-8kg are permitted in the cabin.

Additionally, if traveling with a pet in the cabin, airlines often require that he or she is be obedient to your commands and can behave appropriately in public. Thus, he mustn’t bark or growl at other passengers or staff. If your dog does not behave in an appropriate manner, some airlines may transfer him to the cargo hold at an additional cost, or refuse to transport him all together. Some airlines require a consent form to ensure your pet is flight-ready.

MOST AIRLINES ONLY ACCEPT CAGES THAT COMPLY WITH THE FOLLOWING IATA REGULATIONS:

• The cage must not have wheels
• It must have a solid roof
• The screws and nuts that hold the lower and upper parts of the cage must be properly installed and tightened – because yes, the cage must consist of two sections, made of solid and rigid plastic
• The cage must also include bowls firmly attached to its lower wall containing food and water
• It must be clean, but also and above all waterproof and covered with materials capable of absorbing liquid materials
• It must be well ventilated, with openings in all 4 sides of the cage
• The cage must also be properly closed, using a lock that cannot be opened from the inside
• Finally, it must bear a label distinguishing the top from the bottom and another indicating that the cage contains a live animal

For a list of airlines that allow dogs to fly in the cabin with their owners, check  13 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In-Cabin [Prices & Policies] .

How much does a UK Pet Passport cost?

The cost of a UK Pet Passport can vary drastically. The price you pay will depend on the following:

• Your home country
• Where you are traveling to
• The veterinary clinic that you visit
• The species of your pet
• Whether your pet already has a microchip and rabies vaccination

Firstly, different countries and veterinary clinics will have different prices for veterinary treatments and vaccinations. If you want to save some money, check the prices of a few different veterinary clinics.

Additionally, some pets species may require more treatments and vaccines than others. For example, dogs require more vaccinations than cats, when traveling to the UK. Alternatively, rodents, rabbits, reptiles and amphibians do not require any vaccinations.

If your pet already has a microchip, and a recent rabies vaccination, you will probably pay less for your UK pet passport. Generally, a microchip and rabies vaccination both costs between $20-60 each, in the USA.

The cost of bringing a dog to the UK is broken down into the following (USD):

• Microchipping – $20-50
• Rabies vaccination – $20-50
• Health certificate – $25-150
• Tapeworm treatment – $3-15
• Pet air ticket – $1000-4000 (depends where you are traveling from and the weight/size of your puppy)
• Document endorsement – $38 per endorsement
• Pet crate – $20-100+

Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]

What are the requirements to return to UK after travel?

The same requirements apply to dogs, ferrets or cats that originated from the UK. Thus, your dog or cat will need a microchip, proof of current rabies vaccination, parasite treatments, a health certificate, and licenses.

Can my pet travel to the UK with an EU Pet Passport?

An EU Pet Passport permits pets to travel to EU countries and listed non-EU countries without having to face quarantine. As long as your pet is microchipped and their rabies vaccinations are up to date, you can use an EU Pet Passport to travel to the UK. You may just require additional documents, such as proof of tapeworm treatments for dogs, and an import permit.

Yes, however they must be older than 4 months old. Dogs and cats under the age of 3 months are not permitted to enter the UK. Additionally, your dog or cat will need a rabies vaccination, after which you will likely need to wait 21 days before entering the UK.

Can I relocate to the UK with my pet?

Yes, many people relocate to the UK each year. As long as you follow the guidelines above then moving to the UK with a pet should be simple. This means, making sure that your pet has any required vaccinations and has all the documents required to enter the country.

Importing Dogs or Cats to the UK (GB) from Malaysia

If your dog or cat is entering the UK (GB) from peninsular Malaysia, the following conditions must be met:

1. Your pet has had no contact with pigs during at least the past 60 days prior to export. 2. Your pet has not lived in a place where cases of Nipah disease have been confirmed during the past 60 days. 3. Your pet has been tested with negative a result to an IgG capture ELISA test carried out in a laboratory approved for testing for Nipah disease viruses within 10 days of export.

Bringing pets to the UK (GB) can be a little complicated. Firstly, your pet (dogs, ferrets and cats) will require a microchip. They will also need a valid rabies vaccination, administered no sooner than 21 days before entering the UK, and either a pet passport or animal health certificate. Pet species other than dogs, ferrets and cats will not require microchipping or a rabies vaccination, however you may require a health certificate and/or an import permit.

When organising travel, ensure that your chosen airline allows your pet to fly on their planes and that you have an appropriate and approved pet carrier. Airlines have strict regulations when it comes to pet crates.

Quarantine in the UK is not common, however if your pet is shown to have any signs of disease upon clinical inspection, they will be quarantined. Rabbits and rodents will usually need to stay in quarantine for 4 months. 

Hope you have found this helpful – happy travels!

• Bringing Pets to Japan [Pet Passport Guide]
• How to get an EU Pet Passport [GUIDE]
• What is The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS)? [GUIDE]

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How to Move Your Pet From the US to the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide

When they are choosing to travel to the United Kingdom, most people choose to travel solo, with people, or even with their pet. Bringing your pet to the U.K can be a lot of fun- you can walk the streets of London and eat the famous fish and chips together, hike along the Thames, or even walk along the White Cliff of Dover together.

Here are the seven steps that you will need to move your pet from the U.S to the U.K:

• Make sure that your pet is allowed by the company you are travelling with
• Get the necessary tests and vaccinations for your pet
• Obtain a health certificate for your pet from your veterinarian
• Obtain a pet passport
• Fill out the Declaration Form
• Pick your mode of transportation that you feel is best for you and your pet
• Double-check that you have everything you need to travel with your pet

But before going out on your trip, you have to make sure you have everything in order with your pet, or else they can be held in quarantine, which won’t be pleasant for either your or your pet.

Disclaimer: Hi! this post may contain affiliate links which will take you to online retailers that sell products and services. If you click on one and buy something, I may earn a commission, see my  Affiliate Disclosure  for more details.

You have to make sure that your pet is healthy enough to travel for long hours, have the right documentation, and you have to make sure that your pet is going to be comfortable.

If you are planning on travelling to the United Kingdom and you don’t want to leave your furry friend behind, here is a step-by-step guide to helping you move your pet across the world comfortably.

Disclaimer: You should seek professional advice if you are unsure about how to move your pet to the UK. Go to GOV UK to check if there have been any changes to pet immigration.

1# Make Sure That Your Pet is Allowed

Unfortunately, not all pets are considered “pets” when it comes to international air travel. Most airlines will also only accept cats, dogs, and ferrets as pets that can travel on their planes. Therefore, pets like rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, or rats won’t be allowed to travel with you.

If you do have pets that can’t fly with you, you will have to find someone to watch them for you while you are away, such as a family member, a friend, or a pet sitter.

Some airlines and boats also don’t accept any pets at all. Therefore, you should always with the companies that you are planning to travel with to make sure that they even allow pets.

If you are planning on traveling with multiple pets, you should expect to pay extra fees. Typically, you will only be allowed to travel with up to five pets. However, some airlines will only let you bring one on board.

2# Get Your Pet the Necessary Tests and Vaccinations

Before you embark on your adventures with your pet in the United Kingdom, you have to make sure that they are healthy enough for traveling and meet all of the U.K’s pet health standards. Your pets will have to get tested by a veterinarian for various diseases and illnesses. If they do have an illness, they have to get treated and be disease-free for several months before your trip.

It’s important to get all of these done in advance because if you do not get your pet the proper tests and vaccinations, they can be held in quarantine for up to four months and you can be charged with fines.

Before you send your pet and yourself off to the U.K, you have to get them tested for tapeworms because they are an infectious disease . Your vet will have to analyze their stool in order to test them and to make a proper diagnosis.

Even though you need a vet’s diagnosis to treat tapeworms, you can typically notice the symptoms in your pet yourself. They will typically notice your pet scooting and rubbing their behinds on the ground, licking or biting at their behinds, or they are visible in their stool.

Tapeworms are incredibly common, especially in puppies, are extremely easy to get treated. If your pet has tapeworms, your veterinarian will prescribe a medication, called praziquantel, either orally or in a shot for them to take. Typically, it will take about a week to completely cure the tapeworms. However, some pets may need a second dose three weeks after.

Because it takes some time to cure it, it’s important to do this as early as possible before your flight. If you put off the vet visit until right before your trip, you may have to postpone it if they have to get treated because they can not travel unless they are completely cured.

In addition to tapeworms, you should also get your pet tested for any other illnesses to make sure that they are healthy and ready for the trip. The last thing that you want is to make an unexpected stop at a vet while you are on vacation. 

Vaccinations

In addition to getting tested for illnesses, your pet has to take some preventative measures. Your pets also have to get vaccinated for rabies before you take your trip . Rabies can be a very serious and deadly disease, and it’s important that your pet doesn’t have it before coming into contact with other people and animals.

It is a good idea to get your pets rabies vaccination a month before you make your final arrangements because you are required to wait 21 days prior to the vaccination.

Aside from getting them the proper tests and vaccinations, it is also a good idea to get your pet fitted with a microchip before transporting them to the United Kingdom.

A microchip is an implant that acts as an identification for your pet. Despite what most people believe, it isn’t a tracking device. Microchips omit a radio frequency that can be scanned to show information on the pet.

The microchip will have information like your pets name, your name, and your contact information. If your pet ever gets lost, this way someone will be able to identify your pet and contact you. The procedure for the implant is quick and painless for your pet. You can get the microchip implanted at most local vets or animal clinics.

Not all microchip readers will be able to read every kind of microchip, especially if it’s across the world. When you are getting your microchip, make sure that it is compatible with microchip readers in the United Kingdom.

It’s understandable to want to know where your pet is, especially if you are in a foreign country for the first time. Som if you are looking for a way to track your pet’s whereabouts, there are some collars that have GPS’s in them. These collars can be pretty expensive, but they are worth the extra buck for the reassurance of knowing where your pet is.

3# Health Certificate

In order for your pet to fly with you to the U.K, you will have to have documentation of all of the shots, tests, and microchips that you have for your pet. You can get this health certificate signed by your vet. The health certificate will prove that your pet is free from any infectious diseases and is healthy enough to fly.

The health certificate will confirm that your pet has received all of the needed vaccinations and has been treated for anything recently. You should travel within 10 days of the certificate being issued and will only be valid for up to four months.

The airport will ask to review the health certificate before you get on the plane and will not allow your pet to travel if you don’t have the documentation or it isn’t up to date. It is a good idea to make extra copies to keep with you in your luggage just in case.

4# Pet Passport

Just like how people need a passport to travel internationally, so do your pets. A pet passport is essentially the same as a typical passport, but it includes a little more information about your pet, including:

• Your name and contact information
• A full description of your pet
• Microchip information
• Proof of vaccinations
• Proof of tapeworm test and treatments (if applicable)

Typically, you can get your pet passport for your vet. If for some reason your vet does not provide pet passports, you can see if they can refer you a vet nearby that does, or you can contact the United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) . 

5# Declaration Form

Before you leave for your United Kingdom trip with your pet, you also have to fill out a Declaration form which states that you aren’t bringing your pet into the U.K for commercial purposes and prooves that you are the owner . This means that you aren’t planning on selling your pet while in the United Kingdom. You can find the form here .

6# Pick Your Mode of Transportation

There are a few ways that your pet can be transported to the United Kingdom, but it is ultimately up to you with what method you choose. If you are traveling from the United States to the U.K, the only ways that you have your pet transported are by plane or by boat.

You can find a list of airlines that accept pets on their planes here , and you can find a list of ferries and cruises here . If you want to take a different airline or a different company, you can always call and ask what their policies for pets are.

Each mode of transportation has different policies and procedures for handling your pet while you travel. Do your research and see which way to travel would be best for you and your pet. You can also contact the companies that you are considering to travel with and ask them what their specific procedures are.

7# Double-Check

Before you leave, you should double-check that you have all of the documents that you need for your pet and even some copies, just in case. The very last thing that you want is to be turned away for not having all of your needed documents.

Because the rules and regulations for importing pets into the United Kingdom, be sure to double-check with the website for United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) for updated regulations. Since the U.K is composed of multiple countries, it is also good to double-check the requirements for the country you are landing in as they may be different from others.

How Will Your Pet Be Transported?

Whether you decide to travel in a plane or on a boat to the United Kingdom, there are a few different ways that your pet will be traveling. Because these options aren’t always ideal, you should really consider how your pet will be traveling and treated before bringing them on a trip.

Here are a few ways that your pets can be transported:

The Cargo Hold

If you decide to travel with your pet on the plane, they will most likely be put in the planes cargo hold. They don’t get bathroom breaks or any sort of comfort during their ride. This kind of environment can be really unsettling for them because they will most likely be around other nervous pets, loud sounds, and will be alone.

Luckily, the pilot can control the temperature of the plane, so your pet doesn’t get overheated. Before the flight, the pilot is informed about the cargo and any pets on board. However, you should double-check with them to make sure that the pilot does know about your pet.

Some airlines even bring your pet’s water during the flight, or they will allow you to put water and food for them in their carriers. However, neither is guaranteed so you should call your airline and ask what their procedures are.

If you are allowed to provide them with food and water, the best ways to do this is with clip on food and water dispensors so they don’t fly around during the flight.

Your pets carriage will not be with the rest of the luggage, so you don’t have to worry about them getting thrown around or hurt. A planes cargo hold has a special section that securely holds pet carriers.

Can You Bring Your Pet in the Plane Cabin With You?

If you don’t want your pet to be transported in the cargo cabin, some airlines do let your pets fly with you in the cabin. Unfortunately, there are restrictions on how big your pet can be. Typically, they have to be able to fit into a carrier small enough to fit in a seat. Therefore, larger dogs will have to be flown in the cargo cabin of the plane.

Most airlines also only let a certain number of dogs in the cabin, so it is a good idea to book your dogs spot as far in advance as possible. You should also expect to pay a fee to have your pet in the cabin with you. Most airlines can charge at least $500 extra for a one-way trip.

Ship Kennel

If you are choosing to travel with your pet by a cruise ship, your pet will most likely have to stay in the ship’s kennel. Much like a planes cargo hold, the kennel is located within the boat and hold the passenger’s pets. Your pet would have to stay in their carrier with limited bathroom breaks and time out of the cage. Some cruises also let you check in on your pet.

However, some cruise lines do allow pets in private cabins, but they typically charge an extra fee. Ideally, you would rather your pet be in the room with you and not in a carrier for the duration of your trip. Therefore, you should contact your cruise line and see what options they offer.

How to Make Your Pet More Comfortable for the Trip

Having your pet travel internationally can be a very nervous situation for them. Depending on where you leave within the United States, it can be at least an 11-hour flight to the United Kingdom. Even though this may be a trip of a lifetime for the both of you, your pet’s comfort should be a priority.

Here are some ways to make your pet more comfortable on the long trip over to the U.K:

Direct Flights

To reduce the amount of stress that your pet will be put through, you should try to get a direct flight to the United Kingdom, if possible. Long flights and layovers may be too stressful on your pet, so minimizing the number of hours traveling is better for your pet. Even though it may be more expensive to find direct flights, it will be better for your pet’s well-being in the long run.

Airlines don’t typically take pets out of the cargo hold during layovers, and they can also get misplaced, just like luggage. In case something like this happens, you should also attach tags with your contact information on the crate and around your pet’s neck with a collar.

Pick the Right Season

Even though pilots can control the temperature in the plane, they can’t control the climate outside. It may not be a good idea to travel with your pet in the summer because they could potentially overheat. If you can’t have your pet with you in the cabin where you can monitor them, then it may not be a good idea to travel with high temperatures.

Because of the same reasoning, most airlines will not let you bring pets onboard during certain times of the year. Especially when you are traveling from a colder place to a much hotter place, it is important to consider how comfortable your pet will be while traveling with these temperatures.

A Comfortable Carrier

If you do get the opportunity to have your pet on the plane with you, make sure you get a carrier that is comfortable enough for them. The ideal carrier for a plane ride is one that fits the allowed sizes but also leaves some room for your pet to move around and for you to put some treats and food in there.

Unfortunately, if your pet is travelling in the cargo hold of a plane, they will most likely have to be in a gated carrier. However, you can make it more comfortable by adding some padding, like a bed and pee pads, and also add in some of their favourite toys to keep them entertained.

Line the Carrier with Absorbent Pads

Even though your pet may be house-trained, with the stress of a plane ride and the long flight, there may be some accidents. The nerves from flying could also upset your pet’s stomach, which could induce accidents. You can play it safe by lining the carrier with absorbent pads, like the brand DryFur.

You should also sprinkle some deodorizer, like baking powder, in the carrier so if there is an accident, you and the people around you won’t have to smell it until the flight ends.

To help prevent any unwanted accidents from happening on your flight, don’t feed your pet the morning of and cut off their drinking water two hours before the flight. This way, your pet won’t feel the urge to go while they are on the flight.

Once you get on the plane and your pet gets a little more comfortable with the flight, you can give them water in increments. You don’t want your pet to dehydrate, but you also don’t want any accidents, so watch how much water you give them and how often.

If you start to notice that your pet does have to go, take them into the plane bathroom with you and with a pee pad and try to get them to go there. It may take them a little while to go because they aren’t used to the environment, but it is definitely worth the patience, so they don’t go in the carrier. Make sure to clean up after your pet when you are finished.

Because they will most likely be anxious during the trip, be sure to give your pet lots of attention and reassurance. Even though most airlines probably won’t let you take your pet out of their carrier during the flight, you can still open it a little bit and give them a quick pet to reassure them that everything is okay.

Most airports won’t let you bring in food or drinks before you go through security, but you may get away with bringing treats. Feeding them their favorite treats in moderation throughout the flight would be a great way for them to feel more comfortable.

Most airlines won’t do frequent check-ins with the pets in the cargo hold, so they will be lonely most of the time. If this is important to you, then you should see about having your pet with you in the cabin.

If you decide to travel by boat to the United Kingdom with your pet, you should aks your cruise about their policies on visiting your pet in the kennel. If you are allowed, try to visit them as frequently as possible so they don’t feel so alone.

During your visits, play with them and pet them and make them feel loved. Even though your cruise may be fun, don’t cut your visits short. This is a scary time for them, so having you there makes the trip much easier.

You should always use sedatives as the last resort for keeping your pet calm and comfortable during the flight. Sedatives should only really be used with extremely nervous pets and you should only give your pet a sedative with the okay from the vet. Your pet may have some health problems that could react badly with this kind of treatment.

There are some sedatives that won’t completely put your pet to sleep but will calm them down for the flight. Now there are CBD oils and treats for nervous pets, but you should also check with your vet before giving them to your pet. However, sedatives should be the last resort because they can have some adverse side-effects, such as breathing problems and dizziness.

What About Service Animals?

Service animals are, without a doubt, allowed to travel with you, even in the cabin of a plane. In fact, it is very common to have emotional support animals with them when they are flying because of how stressful it can be.

Even though they are service animals, they do still have to have the proper tests and vaccinations in order to fly. When you go to the airport to board on your plane, make sure you have the proper identification for your service animal, including their vest and the proper documentation.

More Resources for Moving to the UK

How Do I Get A National Insurance Number (Everything You Need to Know)

Things to Organise Before Moving to the UK

How to get a UK Bank Account Before Moving to the UK

Kat Hi, I'm Kat, an Australian that moved to London in 2013 to start a  new adventure.  What a roller-coaster that was! I love helping others move to the UK  and people  explore the world ! I’d be honoured if you’d say, “Thanks!” with a £3 coffee on Ko-fi.

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How to fly with your dog from USA to UK

When my wife and I decided to uproot and move to the United Kingdom from United States, our biggest concern was how to get our two dogs to England.

While we weren’t the first to emigrate from the USA to the UK, there wasn’t a lot of information readily available about the best way to move our pets to a new country.

Most airlines do list their pet policy on their websites but there are more headaches than just how to get your dog on the aircraft.

You have to make sure you pet has had the necessary vaccinations or risk quarantine upon your arrival in the United Kingdom.

If you haven’t secured your transfer of residence number, you could end up paying HMRC a hefty amount of VAT on your import duty.

Even simple things such as your dog crate needs to be the correct dimensions and up to a certain standard or an airline could refuse to fly your pet in cargo.

Having gone through the experience, helloBARK! will run through the list of requirements that we encountered when shipping our dogs from San Francisco to London.

UPDATE: The rules may have changed due to Brexit and Coronavirus rules.

Jump To Section

Step 1: Contacting your airline

When my wife and I decided that we wanted to move to London from San Francisco in late 2018, we were worried about shipping our two Alaskan Klee Kai, Copper and Skye.

Initially, we hoped that Copper and Skye could fly in the cabin with us given they are both registered emotional support animals in the USA.

But the UK have strict rules for ESAs arriving at one of their airports.

We were told by Virgin Atlantic that our dogs would only qualify as assistance animals if they had received training from one of number of organisations:

-Canine Partners -Dogs for Good -Guide Dogs for the Blind Association -Hearing Dogs for Deaf People -Support Dogs

Copper and Skye were certified as ESA dogs by a company in the USA and didn’t meet Virgin Atlantic’s requirements so we decided to ship them as cargo.

Virgin Atlantic informed us that Copper and Skye would require individual crates of a specific size and type.

Note: You will need to contact Virgin Atlantic Cargo about shipping your pets in the hold in advance of booking your flight to make sure there is room on the aircraft for your dogs.

We were given a quote based upon the crate size that Virgin Atlantic Cargo recommended.

Step 2: Purchasing the correct dog crate

Your dog will need an appropriately sized crate to be accepted in cargo (Photo: Adobe Stock)

In order to fly your pet on Virgin Atlantic’s aircraft, you must obtain an IATA approved travel kennel. The kennel needs to meet the following specifications:

a) The crate must be made of wood or hard plastic and be rigid on all sides. b) It should be non-collapsible and there should be no roof grill c) It must be equipped with a suitable water dish, attached to the inside door of the kennel. d) It must be ventilated around all 4 sides (however the sides must not be ventilated at the top and the bottom as this will weaken the integrity of the container) e) The base must be leak–proof. You must put absorbent material in the bottom of the pet kennel (i.e. shredded newspaper, animal disposal pads) for the comfort of your pet. f) The locking mechanism must be central on the door and be of a kind where the door pins fit through the roof and floor by at least 6mm g) The minimum cage size we accept is 53 x 40 x 38cm (external measurements)

Virgin Atlantic Cargo provide guidance on how to ensure the correct sized kennel for your pet on their website.

It must be large enough to comfortably accommodate your pet to stand up and turn around freely, leaving at least 5cm headroom space between the top of your pets head and the rooftop of the kennel.

These requires ensure your pet has sufficient space to stand up, lie down and turn around comfortably whilst in flight.

Virgin Atlantic Cargo add that if you don’t have the correct size kennel, it could result in your pet being refused for transport on the day of departure.

Once you have worked out the correct size crate for your pet, then you can find plenty of options on Amazon or other websites.

We purchased our two dog crates from Amazon (click here to view) and they were extremely simple to build (although they do take up a lot of space!).

We included an absorbent pad and one of our blankets in each cage in the hope that Copper and Skye would feel more relaxed if they could smell us on the material.

Step 3: Making a booking with your airline

Once we had the right crate to transport our pets, we got in touch with Virgin Atlantic Cargo to make our booking.

You don’t pay their airfare until your drop them off at the airport before your flight.

Virgin Atlantic Cargo sent us ample information so we were fully prepared ahead of the journey.

This includes their pre check document list for pets travelling under the Pet Travel Scheme.

If you are able to get the relevant documents together 72 hours before flying, you can send them to Virgin Atlantic who will forward them to the relevant Animal Reception Centre.

This can speed up the process on the other side when you land.

However, given the tapeworm requirements (which will be mentioned below), we were unable to submit the pre check document list ahead of departure. This did slow down the process on the other side.

Step 4: Getting your ToR

My wife and I were completely oblivious to the fact that we needed to get a transfer of residence number.

Thankfully, Virgin Atlantic Cargo informed us that we would need to get a ToR to avoid paying VAT on our dogs upon arrival in UK.

HMRC’s website states that getting a TOR number can take up to two weeks, but we managed to attain the number within five days.

You will be asked to send over documents, including:

a) transfer of residence application b) A (black and white) copy of the photo page from your passport and a copy of your UK visa (if issued) c) A signed list of goods that you wish to import. Please identify any goods that are not eligible for ToR – to establish eligibility of goods; d) Proof of residency in a country you are transferring from showing your name and address of residence. For example, a utility bill; e) Evidence of your right and intention to move to the UK. This could be a copy of the relevant signed page of your: -UK contract of employment and/or -purchase or rental agreement for your proposed dwelling place in the UK (only the relevant signed page that clearly shows your name and address of residence need to be submitted).

If you are unable to get your ToR number prior to flight, you will be able to claim back the VAT once you’ve received your ToR number in United Kingdom.

Step 5: Working with your vet

Your vet will need to examine your dog before flying to UK (Photo: Adobe Stock)

Once we had booked our flights, we got in touch with our local vet who had previous experiences with clients moving to the UK from the USA.

With their help, we went through the requirements that needed to be met to bring Copper and Skye to United Kingdom.

We did not possess EU passports for our Alaskan Klee Kai, which would have made the process a lot smoother.

For Copper and Skye, we had to meet five requirements in order for our two dogs to enter the UK.

1) Identification with a microchip – your pet should be implanted with an ISO compliant microchip. ISO compliant microchips are 15 digits long.

2) Rabies vaccination – your pets need to have had a rabies vaccination on the day of their microchip implantation or after. The first rabies vaccination after microchip implantation is considered the “primary vaccine,” and is only valid for one year. If an animal travels more than 12 months after a primary rabies vaccine is given (the first rabies vaccine given after microchip implantation), written documentation that a rabies vaccine booster was given within 12 months of this “primary vaccine” must accompany the pet when it travels to the UK. Alternatively, the animal can be revaccinated in the U.S. prior to departure and will be eligible for travel to the UK after a 21 day waiting period.

3) After a primary rabies vaccination, the pet must wait 21 days before it is eligible to enter the EU. This applies only to pets over 16 weeks of age that have just received a primary rabies vaccination.

4) Have an accredited veterinarian issue the EU Health Certificate – usually this has to occur within 10 days of entry to EU.

5) Have an APHIS endorse the EU Health Certificate – After your veterinarian has issued the EU Health Certificate, have your completed paperwork endorsed by your local APHIS Veterinary Services office.

6) Tapeworm treatment – Tapeworm treatment is required for dog(s) exported to the United Kingdom (and a number of other countries including the Republic of Ireland). The dog(s) must be treated by an accredited veterinarian between 24 and 120 hours (1 and 5 days) before entering the EU.

There is a lot more detailed information on USDA APHIS here.

Our oldest Alaskan Klee Kai Skye had her rabies booster in October 2018, while Copper had his primary rabies vaccination in May 2018 so the 21-day waiting period didn’t apply to us.

Step 6: Examination and tapeworm vaccination

As we were flying to UK, we had to head back to our vet to get the EU Health Certificate and the tapeworm treatment within five days of our flight to London.

We ended up visiting our vet in the Bay Area, California with three days to spare to ensure there would be no issues with the timing of our flight.

The staff at the surgery had completed the EU Health Certificate but fortunately we spotted a number of mistakes that they had made in the document (including Skye’s sex!).

We asked for the staff to stamp almost every page that we had to be safe, while this was possibly excessive, it did give us peace of mind.

Step 7: Trip to USDA APHIS

Having received our EU Health Certificate, we immediately left the Bay Area and drove to Sacramento to visit our nearest USDA APHIS office.

The process usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes, but an issue with a date on the EU Health Certificate resulted in a four hour wait.

Step 8: Arriving at the airport

Virgin Atlantic Cargo requested that we arrive 4 hours before our flight to drop off Copper and Skye.

We were instructed to go to Virgin Atlantic’s cargo building rather than the San Francisco International airport.

The location was a five minute drive from the airport, so it wasn’t out of the way, but this can differ from airport to airport.

We were 30 minutes early and the extra time ensured the process wasn’t rushed.

A member of the staff has to go through all your documents, there is extra paperwork to fill out and a rather large payment to take for the service.

There is a chance to say a temporary goodbye to your pets before they are taken away to be weighed (we were informed that the dogs will remain in their cages).

Fast forward four hours, we checked with the Virgin Atlantic worker on the desk that our dogs had made it onto the plane without any problems.

On board the aircraft, we asked the flight attendant to confirm that the captain was aware dogs were in the hold. This was a tip that we had read online.

The crew were already aware that they had two VIPs in freight and had even seen our dogs (we’re not entirely sure how, but they saw enough to call them “baby huskies”).

Step 9: Landing in the UK

After an 11 hour flight across the Atlantic from San Francisco to London, we were sufficiently awake to spot the two dog cages being taken off the plane upon landing.

Once we made it through customs at London Heathrow, we called the Animal Reception Centre to check on Copper and Skye. We were reassured they were doing fine and given a rough estimation for pick up.

The Heathrow Animal Reception is located about a 10 minute drive from Terminal 3, so for those without a car, a taxi will be required to reach the building affectionately dubbed the ARC.

While our experience is based upon Heathrow’s centre, there are two other animal reception centres around the UK: Gatwick Animal Reception Centre and Manchester Airport Animal Reception Centre.

Step 10: Collecting your pets

Heathrow’s Animal Reception Centre inform anxious pet owners that processing your pet will usually take 4-8 hours when you arrive from outside the EU.

We arrived at Heathrow around two hours after landing and we were initially told that Copper and Skye could be ready within an hour.

But unfortunately another issue with our paperwork meant what was an hour wait turned into five anxious hours on and off the phone with our vet stateside.

Copper’s microchip number was omitted from his rabies certificate, meaning there was no proof that he had the microchip at the time of his primary rabies shot.

Facing a potential quarantine, Heathrow’s Animal Reception Centre did everything possible to help us contact our vet and eventually the error was amended.

Almost 24 hours after dropping off our dogs at San Francisco, we were reunited.

Step 11: Adjusting to life in UK

(Photo: @lifewithkleekai)

We were concerned that our dogs would struggle to adapt to life in UK, especially coming from the warm weather in California.

But Copper and Skye have settled in very quickly.

As crazy pet parents, we were concerned that putting our dogs in the hold could permanently affect our Alaskan Klee Kai.

While every dog is different, Copper and Skye have shown no signs of any trauma despite the 11-hour flight.

We were worried their separation anxiety could return, but the first time we left them alone, we could see on our dog camera that they went straight to sleep.

Other considerations

– helloBARK! recommends contacting the airline that you plan to use before purchasing your ticket. Not all flights will accept animals on certain days, while there may not be room on a specific flight.

– The cost of shipping Skye and Copper was in excess of $2500.

– The Heathrow Animal Reception centre doesn’t receive pets at the weekend.

Have you emigrated with your pets? If so, please drop us a line (kieran @ hellobark.com) as we would love to hear about your experience.

Related Articles

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Bringing Your Dogs To UK: Rules and Regulations

The United Kingdom is one of the most beautiful countries to visit, and not to mention one of the best ‘ Pet-Friendly Places’ In the world, with over 8 million dogs living in the UK, and with the vast open countryside, it’s definitely a place worth visiting.

With all the history and great views to admire, Bringing your Dogs to UK is a must for any dog lover. But as we all know with most countries there are rules you need to follow first if you want to bring any pet to the UK. So in this article I’ve made a list of everything you need to know when travelling with your dog to UK.

Rules and Regulations

The United Kingdom is considered a rabies-free country and falls under European Union Regulations . So there are some rules you need to follow when travelling with pets to the UK.

Also, your dog will need to be checked over by an official veterinarian before you can travel with your dog to the UK.

If you do not follow any of the requirements listed below your dog can be put in Quarantine for up to 4 months and refused entry which is the last thing you want.

So always check with your local vet before starting your journey. You can find all this information at  GOV.UK . Click on the link to view.

When bringing your dogs to the UK You must have a valid EU Dogs passport.

If you do not have a dog’s Passport and you coming from a Non-EU country then you must have an official veterinary certificate called a Certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) when bringing your dog to the UK.

Your dog must arrive in an EU country within 10 days of the certificate being issued this is very important. All pet passports and certificates are issued by an Official Veterinarian.

To get this certificate or passport, simply contact your local vet and they can advise you further, your dog will need to go through some medical checks as well, this is normal for any pet that’s going abroad.

Dogs Microchip

Before you can enter the UK you will need to get your dog micro chipped before you can travel, this is normally done before the rabies shot. All dogs that are not micro-chipped will be refused to enter the country. This is now law in the UK.

Having your dog micro-chipped is not only law, But this will give you peace of mind.. Say your dog is lost in a country you don’t know, At least all your information is stored on the micro-chip that way when your dog is found you the owner can be located quickly.

Dogs Rabies Vaccination

All dogs must be over 12 weeks old to receive this rabies vaccination this can be given at the same time as the usual annual booster vaccinations.

You must wait 21 days from the date of your dogs rabies vaccination before travelling with your dog to UK or any other EU member state.

Dogs Tapeworn Treatment

Your dog will need to have  Tapeworn  treatment this is normally given in tablet form and need’s to be given 5 days before travelling, The time and date needs to be recorded in the dogs passport to prove the treatment has been administered.

Once you have completed all these’s checks you can then apply to receive your dogs health certificate or passport.

Dog Breeds Banned In The UK

The  Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 that prohibit or restrict certain types of dog breeds in UK and codifying the criminal offence of allowing a dog of any breed to be dangerously out of control.

This is after eleven horrific attacks that happen in 1991 and now this act has banned the sale, purchase or exchange of the types of dog breeds in UK that they consider Dangerous.

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro

Unfortunately if you own any one of the dog breeds listed above you won’t be able to bring your dog in UK.

Transportation

So once you have done everything mentioned above, the next thing you need to do is, check the regulations for the transport you are planning to use to travel with your dog to the UK.

If you are thinking about taking your dog on a plane or a ferry, the first thing you want to check is are dogs allowed on the plane or the Ferry you plan to use and if so.. what are the Regulations?

You need to think about the ‘weight of your dog’ and ‘the size of your dog’ the ‘breed of dog’ whats the size requirement must your pet carrier be.

All of these things you need to take into account before booking your transportation for you and your dog to the UK.

The good news is after doing a lot of research on this, Below I’ve set out the requirements you need to know and ways on how to travel with your dog to the UK.

Dog On A Plane

Now there are many Airlines that will let you take a Dog on a plane, Some will even let you travel with your dog in the cabin, but this depends on the size of your dog.

If you have a big dog, and when I say a big dog, I mean the average size of a German shepherd then your dog will have to travel in the cargo.

Here’s an example is taken from one of my other articles, I’ll leave the link below so you can go check it out.

but British Airways have Regulations when taking a Dog on a plane. Not only that but they are one of the best Airlines to travel with your dog.

British Airways:  Allow guide dogs in the cabin and other pets that weigh less than 6KG, They must be transported in a portable dog carrier or cage, with maximum dimensions of 20 x 30 x 20 cm .  If they weigh more than 6KG your dog will need to travel in the cargo hold.

British Airways have now partnered with a company called Pet Air UK which is run and owned by qualified veterinary surgeons and has been flying pets all over the world since 2004 that offer’s a comfortable and convenient way to export their pets from the UK. For more Information Click Here .

If you are planning on travelling with your dog in the cabin then you should find this article very helpful called 10 Airlines that accept dogs in the cabin

Dog On A Ferry

Travelling with your Dog on a Ferry to the UK is another option. Depending on which ferry you use, Here is another Example:  Brittany Ferries  travel to and from the UK and have some Pet-Friendly ferry cabins so your dog can travel with you but you will be an extra fee for this.

When boarding the ferry the check-in agent will require the following..

• Your booking reference
• Your passports (including the pet passports)
• That your dog has a microchip
• That you have a dog muzzled

Once these’s checks have been completed your dog’s microchip will then be scanned by the agent, At this point, your dog will need to be muzzled at all times.

Dog on a Train

There are lots of travel lines in the UK that will let you take a dog on a train however if you planning on crossing the channel into the UK then this is going to be a bit tricky, Unfortunately, Eurostar UK /France /Belgium trains do not allow any pets on board.

Only Guide dogs are allowed with strict rules. and the guide dog must have been trained from one of the following companies below…

• Assistance Dogs UK
• Assistance Dogs International
• The International Guide Dog Federation

Your also required to show documentation when arriving in or if you departing from the UK.

One option. If your planning on using a train is, first use Folkestone Taxis to run you from Calais to Folkestone using the Eurotunnel shuttle, Once your in the UK taking your dog on a train will be much easier.

Most trains in the UK are happy to take dogs on board. If you are not sure which trains will accept your dog, read this article called Can-you-take-dogs-on-trains there you find a detailed list of trains in the UK that will let you take a dog on a train.

Dog in a Car

Crossing the channel with your dog in a car is another option, again all the rules above apply, you still need to show all the relevant documents upon your arrival in the UK.

If you are planning on crossing the channel by car, then make sure you pack plenty of water, Dogs get hot fast when travelling in a car, especially in the summer, So lots of water is needed to keep your dog hydrated.

So after going through this article it may sound complicated, But it is fairly straightforward, Long as your dog is healthy and passes all the tests with your local vet then you shouldn’t have any problems getting a passport or health certificate CVI.

Just remember to check your dog’s weight and the dimensions of your dog carrier before you check in on any flight.

and also you must wait 21 days from the date of your dog’s rabies vaccination before you can travel.

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How to Travel with a Dog to the UK from Outside Europe

If you’re travelling to the United Kingdom with your dog, it’s far more difficult than travelling with a dog to other countries in Europe. This is because pet dogs flying into the UK can only fly as cargo. For this reason, whether you’re trying to fly a dog from the USA to the UK or from somewhere else in the world, you may want to consider some of the alternatives. 

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive commission if you make a purchase using the links. See my full disclaimer .

Can You Fly to the UK with a Dog?

Dogs are able to fly to the United Kingdom , but dogs are not able to fly into the UK in the cabin or as check-in baggage. The UK government only permits pet dogs to fly to the UK as cargo, using an approved carrier  to an approved airport. 

For many owners of small dogs who understandably only fly their dog in the cabin, at their feet, this poses a difficulty. But even if your dog normally flies in the hold as excess baggage, in comparison flying a dog as cargo is a more complicated and expensive process.  

When flying as cargo, dogs usually need to be booked through the separate cargo division of the airline, or a completely separate freight company, sometimes through a pet transport company . The cost to fly a dog as cargo is often quite expensive, far more than the cost of flying a dog in the cabin or as excess baggage. 

Additionally, when you fly to the UK with a dog from outside the UK, your dog will need to pass through customs clearance before you can collect it from the animal reception centre. You’ll need to make a booking for this, possibly through a agent (or broker), if this isn’t take care of by your pet transport company or freight company. Send an email to the National Clearance Hub ( [email protected] ) for more information.

During 2022, there were at times long delays for available slots at some UK airports, although I believe the situation has improved in 2023.

Naturally, customs clearance isn’t free of charge. Expect the fees including agent fees and inspection fees to total up to £600. You will also be charged a value added tax of 20%, based on your pet’s breed and the cost of their transport, although this can later be refunded. These charges don’t apply for dogs crossing to the UK by ferry or car.

The cost of shipping a dog from USA to UK can be quite expensive when a dog flies directly to the UK. Along with cargo freight costs, many pets flying from the US are quoted a total cost of $3000 to $5000 USD.  

Consider Flying to Paris or Amsterdam Airports

Instead of directly flying to the UK with your dog, instead consider flying to another airport within Europe, then travel by another option across the Channel, to travel with your dog to the UK.  

The most popular alternative airports to fly into within Europe with your dog are Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris and Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam . As well as being busy airports with a large number of flights arriving from all around the world, both of these airports allow you to arrive with a dog in the cabin (or as checked baggage). 

Additionally, there are feasible options to then travel onwards to the UK with your dog as a “foot passenger”, without hiring a car. (With cars driving on the opposite side of the road in the UK compared to Continental Europe, forget about a one-way car hire to head to the UK!) 

Check out my guide on flying to France from the USA with a dog

Taking a Ferry Across to the UK

Once you arrive in Paris or Amsterdam, there are multiple ferry options available to foot passengers with a dog to take you to the UK.  

Taking a Ferry from France to the UK

From Paris, foot passengers with a dog are permitted on the DFDS Seaways ferry from Dieppe to Newhaven, on the southern coast of England. The ferry crossing takes about 4 hours, but once you add on the train journeys at either end the journey from Paris to London takes a full day. Read my review of completing this journey when I visited the UK.  

Note that the other ferries between France and England do not permit foot passengers to bring pets onboard. 

Taking a Ferry from the Netherlands to the UK

Finally, foot passengers can also bring a pet onboard the P&O ferry from Rotterdam to Hull. This ferry has recently added three pet-friendly cabins, in addition to their pet kennels. It even has pet exercise areas at both ferry terminals. It generally operates as an overnight crossing. Click here for further information. 

A short train journey is required from the airport to any of the relevant ferry terminals in the Netherlands. Pets are allowed on trains in the Netherlands .

Using a Pet Taxi or Pet Transport Service

Instead of taking a ferry across to the UK with your dog, you could instead consider using a pet taxi or a pet transport service. These options are particularly popular for pets arriving in Paris. 

With pet taxis, there are multiple providers that take advantage of pets being allowed in vehicles using the Eurotunnel, one of the quickest and easiest ways to travel with a pet in between the UK and France, as long as you have a vehicle. 

Most frequently, people travelling with a dog just take a pet taxi between Calais Ville or Calais Fréthun and Folkestone Central stations. On either end, simply travel by train on the dog-friendly trains in France and the UK . The pet taxi typically costs about £100-200, on top of the normal Eurotunnel fees. 

However, it’s also possible to book a pet taxi for the entire trip from Paris to London, or another destination, at a higher cost. I’ve typically heard of fees around £700 for taxi all the way from Paris to London, although it can be higher due to the fluctuating cost of the Eurotunnel.

Two frequently used pet taxis are  Folkestone Taxis (also known as Pet Travel Abroad) and  Pet Moves . A newer option is Le Pet Express , which offers shared minivans, but only on weekends at this point.  

There are also some companies that are specifically set up to transport dogs longer distances between European countries and the UK. These companies can pick your pet up from Charles de Gaulle or Schiphol Airports and transport your pet to your address in the UK, while you fly to the UK or take the non-dog-friendly Eurostar to London.

One DEFRA-certified company that I have heard a lot of happy reports about is Happy Saluki Pet Transport .

Or Fly to Dublin Airport

Another increasingly popular alternative to flying to Continental Europe, is to instead fly to Dublin Airport firstly with your dog. Depending on your final destination in the UK, this can make for a shorter journey, particularly as the ferry trip across the Irish Sea is shorter.

Quite a few airlines don’t fly pets to and from Dublin in the cabin, despite there being no prohibition against this, but I have put together a list of airlines that fly pets in and out of Ireland . One American airline is included on the list – Delta.

Delta will fly pets in the cabin to and from Dublin Airport from a number of airports in the USA. Up until recently, pets could not be flown out of Dublin as excess baggage, due to an issue with the baggage system, but in 2024 this was fixed.

From Dublin, there are a number of ferries that cross to Wales, some with pet-friendly cabins. Alternatively, it’s possible to cross the land border to Northern Ireland, with no pet documentation checks occurring at the border. You can then take a ferry across to Scotland. Check out my guide to the most pet-friendly ferries across the Irish Sea .

What About a Cruise Ship Across the Atlantic?

Another alternative if you’re bringing a dog from the US to the UK, may be to book a crossing on the Queen Mary 2 across the Atlantic, disembarking at Southampton in England. This is particularly popular with owners of larger dogs, that are too large to fly in the cabin on any airline. The Queen Mary 2 is one of the few dog-friendly cruise ships . 

However, keep in mind that there a lot of demand for the pet kennels onboard the Queen Mary 2, so the kennels are typically booked out a year or more in advance! (As of early 2023, I have even heard reports of up to two years.) However, it’s possible to put your name down on a waiting list, in case a berth becomes available sooner. 

Paperwork for Travelling to the UK with Your Dog

Due to the United Kingdom leaving the EU following Brexit, the rules and paperwork for importing dogs to the UK have changed. The main change is that pets travelling to Great Britain require a Great Britain pet health certificate , rather than the EU pet health certificate (Annex IV).

The remainder of the rules for importing dogs to the United Kingdom are essentially the same as for pets travelling to anywhere in the EU . Pets are required to be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies.

Additionally, the UK is one of the few countries in Europe requiring a worming treatment for dogs, administered by a vet between 24 hours and 5 days of arrival in the UK, with no change to this requirement. All of this needs to be documented in a pet passport or Great Britain pet health certificate.

If you are using a Great Britain pet health certificate that needs to be certified by the local authority, such as USDA in the United States, the worming treatment can be added to the certificate once it has been certified and returned to you.

For more details on bringing a pet to the UK, see the government website .

Requirement for Two Pet Health Certificates

If you’re firstly travelling to the EU (including Ireland) and then onwards to the UK, things will be a little more complicated. You need to make sure you fulfill the requirements for your pet to travel both to the EU and to the UK.

In particular, you will need two pet health certificates, both an EU and GB pet health certificate. There are some reports of vets and governments in some countries refusing to issue two pet health certificates at the same time, although hopefully this becomes more accepted.

Getting an EU Pet Passport

One alternative if you cannot be issued two pet health certificates, is to just get an EU pet health certificate. Then when you are transiting through Europe, go to the vet and get an EU pet passport . This pet passport is used for pets to travel within the EU, and can be used in future to travel from the UK back to the EU.

To get an EU pet passport, you will need to allow time to visit a vet, before continuing on to the UK. At the same time have your pet wormed, at least 24 hours before entering the UK, and recorded in the pet passport. This may also be a practical alternative if you’d like to spend some time in the EU before completing your journey, and your dog cannot be wormed beforehand, due to the short time frame of validity.

It’s best to book an appointment with a vet in advance, and ensure they will issue you an EU pet passport. In particular, there are recent reports of vets in France no longer issuing EU pet passports to those without a locally registered dog.

Note that not all veterinarians will copy across your existing rabies vaccination (I’ve generally heard of this occurring in Germany) or that UK customs may question a rabies vaccination predating the pet passport, as was the case when I boarded my ferry to the UK. Either keep all your different paperwork as proof or consider getting a rabies booster shot in the EU, to be recorded on your EU pet passport.  

The other alternative is to ask a vet in the EU to issue you with a GB pet health certificate, but this is not common within the EU, due to the usage of pet passports.

What About When Leaving the UK?

While there are no restrictions on pets flying in the cabin or as checked baggage when leaving the UK, only a few airlines offer this option . A few airlines specify on their website that they offer this option, while I have heard reports from fellow travellers of other airlines allowing this. Double check with your preferred airline, and consider crossing back over to Paris or Amsterdam to fly your pet out of Europe with more options. 

I have checked with a number of American airlines, and none of them state online that they will fly dogs in the cabin when leaving the UK. American Airlines doesn’t fly pets in the cabin on any trans-Atlantic flights, while both Delta and United rule out pets in the cabin on flights both to and from the UK. However, I have heard a recent report of United allowing this.

An alternative option for flying from the UK to the USA with a dog in the cabin is to fly via Canada, as it’s possible to fly a dog from the UK to Canada. On the Air Canada website they specifically mention that they accept pets for travel both in the cabin and in the hold on flights from the UK. Air Transat also allow pets to fly out of the UK, out of Manchester and Glasgow, but not Gatwick Airport in London.

You May Also Like

• How to Travel with a Dog Between the UK and Europe
• Which European Airlines Allow Dogs in the Cabin?
• Which Asian Airlines Allow Dogs in the Cabin?
• Travelling in the United Kingdom with a Dog

About the Author

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

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25 thoughts on “How to Travel with a Dog to the UK from Outside Europe”

Hi i d like to fly with my pet from miami to UK how could i do this? Maybe i could send him alone , i suppose that it s more expensive but if i dont have the choice😏thank you for helping me Patricia maizil

Your dog would be able to fly to the UK directly in cargo. However, if you want to fly your dog in the cabin, many travelers instead fly to France or the Netherlands.

By any chance do you know how it would be to travel from France to UK using the train?

Sorry, only registered service dogs are allowed on the Eurostar train, not pet dogs.

Hi Shandos – Thank you for this informative post. I am making plans to fly to the UK from NYC in January. I have a 10 pound dog and planned to travel in cabin with her until I was surprised by the new rules. Traveling Cargo is a time consuming and confusing process. At this point the cost for British Airways – through IAG Cargo — is $800 to ship her there. Added to this will be the cost for an England Cargo company, James Cargo to pick her up and take her through customs, add to that the VAT and the cost will be upwards of 2k. Ugh. So, after a long winded rant, some of your ideas are percolating with me though I just want to be clear. Based on what you said this is what I am thinking: – fly into Amsterdam or Paris, dog in cabin – hire a pet taxi to drive my dog to London – I take Eurostar and meet them there – When I go through customs with my dog in tow in Eurozone, will they ask for the Pet Certificate at that time? Should I compile two pet certificates while in the USA. One for UK and one for Europe? – Will my dog have to go through Customs when it arrives in UK with Pet Taxi? Complicated stuff I know but the possible option of not using Cargo, both because of cost and because I’m nervous about its effect on my dog, sounds so good to me. Thanks so much!!

You’ll need to have two pet certificates done, both the EU one and the new GB one ( https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/pet-travel-apply-for-a-gb-pet-health-certificate ). With the EU one, generally the airline checks it at check-in. Most people report customs in Paris as not checking it, but they might. With the UK, the GB certificate will be checked by UK customs before getting on the Eurotunnel or ferry. If you are leaning towards a pet taxi, generally they can transport you as well, you don’t need to take the Eurostar separately. Hope this helps! It would be great if dogs could fly in the cabin to the UK, instead Brexit has complicated things further!

I flew out of the UK (in Aug)with KLM and they told me that I could also do that with Delta and Air France as they are all under the same umbrella. It gets so confusing and with Covid on top, it’s overwhelming. I’ve traveled for over 40+ yrs and this is unreal.

Thanks for the heads up April! It’s pretty crazy at the moment with Covid, hopefully things start to return to normal in 2022.

There’s also a new company out there, http://www.lepetexpress.com . They take you and your dog or cat from Calais Frethun Rail Station and drop you off at the rail station in the UK at set times. £150! They also go UK to France.

Thanks for the heads up!

Hi, I was wondering if this route through Europe is still a good option? I am planning to do it with my cat from Korea in May, but I heard from some people that it might be risky now. They interpret the rule to mean that my paperwork from Korea would not be accepted because I am technically coming from France so I will need a pet passport, however, I have seen others say that if I have all the correct paperwork everything will be fine and I can enter without a pet passport. I was told that to get a pet passport in France I would need to get him vaccinated again and then I would have to stay in the country for a month for the vaccine to be valid. I am really desperately trying to find other people who have been doing this route within the last few months successfully, or advice on how I can be successful doing it, otherwise I will have to pay over £2000 to have him shipped via manifest cargo. Thank you for any advice you can give me.

I’ve definitely heard from others that use paperwork from outside of Europe. The most common issue seems to be that some overseas countries won’t complete/certify two sets of pet certificates (for EU and UK). I recommend joining my FB group to speak to others who have done this recently: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dogfriendlytravelrtw

Air Canada is good for pets in cabin out of the UK . To return… Air France to Paris, domestic train to Dieppe. Pet can go with you as a foot passenger on Dieppe to Newhaven ferry (warning Dover Calais ferries and eurostar trains do NOT allow this). Pet and documentation are checked in Newhaven then you’re free to travel on all domestic trains in the UK with your pet.

I’m traveling to the USA from the UK via amsterdam. I have time to get a EU passport on the way over to the USA but not on the way back. So do you know how that would work with coming back to the uk? Would I get the vet in the USA (who is administering the tapeworm treatment) to document it on the GB health certificate or the EU pet passport?

Vets outside of the EU cannot document rabies vaccines in the EU pet passport, but it’s not 100% clear they can add worming treatments to it. To be safe, it’s probably better for it to be documented in a health certificate. Additionally, note that an Animal Health Certificate issued in Great Britain can be used to return to Great Britain for up to 4 months.

Did you have to complete paperwork for Customs or a Transfer of Residence form?

I am coming home to the UK with my adopted cat but i read you have to get clearance from customs?

If you are flying directly to the UK from outside of Europe with your pet, customs clearance is required. For more information, see this page https://animalaircare.co.uk/customs-clearance/ . I only have personal experience at travelling to the UK from continental Europe, where this is not required, just the health certificates and worming treatment.

Only by sheer luck have I found your blog. And that too at such a good time! Me and my sister are moving to the UK in the near future and we can’t go without our cats. Two of them. But it is so unfortunate that I can’t take them in cabin and have to make use of a pet transportation company. The cost goes way above and beyond our budget. But then I read something about going to the UK through Europe. You also say its possible. Now I don’t know if this sounds dumb, but if I use the Europe route, I’d travel to Paris, for example, on a tourist visa, yes? I’ll be relocating to the UK on a student visa, and possibly then on a work visa. So, if I decide to go through France, I’d first need a French travel Visa, no? Do I sound dumb? Ahhh, but I really need someone to confirm this for me! This whole process of taking my cats to the UK has been so stressful. I can’t take them as manifest cargo; my budget simply doesn’t allow it. Can you please breakdown the process of taking them through Europe? I don’t live in the US either. I’ll be travelling from India. Then I’m also unsure of how I’ll take to Calais from Paris with all of my luggage. From there, I checked out the Le Pet Shuttle, but they only allow one baggage and one personal handbag per person. Its concerning cause I’ll have 2 baggies on my student ticket. 😖 I really didn’t mean to dump all of my problems on you! But I’d be forever grateful if you could suggest something that you think can work for me and my cats. I’ll be forever grateful. Have a good day!

Ruhi – I’m not sure about the visa situation, I guess you’ll need a tourist visa. Some countries offer transit visas, but I don’t think this applies in the Schengen zone. Consider you’ll have a lot of luggage, it will probably be best to organise your own pet taxi, rather than a shared vehicle and using the trains and ferries. One option I’ve heard lots of good feedback lately is Happy Saluki ( https://www.happy-saluki.com ) – John the owner also knows everything inside out.

Great page; thank you! So glad to know that someone has already tried, tested and even written about what has been going through my head! Thank you! I’m keen on the “Paris flight arrival – train to Dieppe ferry” option to enter UK. My questions are practical ones with regard to the travel cage, as we have a large dog. I’m sure we wont be able to lift the cage with the dog in it, so, when we go on the train, is the dog allowed out of the travel cage and onto the train? Does the cage have to go into a separate baggage section or does it all stay togther on the train? The same questions apply for the ferry… (I’m also thinking it may be a good idea to add stoppable wheels to the cage) Many thanks

On the trains in France, it’s best for larger dogs to travel outside of a travel cage, just on a leash and wearing a muzzle. More information about pets on trains in France can be found here: https://www.sncf-voyageurs.com/en/travel-with-us/plan-your-journey/pets/ . I’m not sure about the storage of a large travel crate – we left behind our dog’s large crate before taking the train, but there’s information about luggage regulations on the same website.

When boarding the ferry, it’s requested that pets are carried onboard in a carrier (this is what we did), but this isn’t always enforced. And wheeling on your dog in his crate is probably the best idea for a larger dog. On the car deck of the ferry there are a few large crates that dogs can go in if they don’t have their own. As our dog is small we put his carrier inside one of the large crates.

One other thing – the train station isn’t next to the ferry wharf, it’s just over 2km away. We took a taxi. That might be a problem if you’re travelling with a large crate…

Hi there, great blog – thank you!

I am currently in the process of adopting a dog from Turkey. I think I am slowly getting there is terms of understanding what she needs. But I wonder if you could help me with a few things?

My plan is to fly her from Turkey to Amsterdam and then the next day get the ferry to England. I am told she has a pet passport but I am assuming this is not EU, so do you suggest that we complete both EU & GB Health Certificates?

Will the UK look at her as “technically” coming from EU as we are leaving from Netherlands? Or will they look at it like she is coming from Turkey?

Can you advise on what Amsterdam customs is like when you collect the dog? Is there any support that I need or is it as simple as picking her up from excess baggage?

I don’t believe the EU will recognised the Turkish pet passport, unlike say the Switzerland pet passport, so I recommend getting both health certificates completed. Are you also across the requirements for the rabies titre test? (See: https://www.travelnuity.com/travelling-to-europe-with-a-dog/ )

With picking up your dog in Amsterdam, if you fly with your dog in the hold as excess baggage, you will simply need to pick her up from the excess baggage counter, then show the paperwork when you go through customs. It’s more complicate if she flies as cargo, with pick-up from the cargo facility, but I’m guessing she won’t fly as cargo.

How can we get eu and gb health-certificates or eu pet passport in france or paris or germany if we dont know any vets pls guide for vets who can give these.

Regards Meera

I recommend looking for English speaking vets and asking them. Sorry I don’t have any recent recommendations, and it is trickier to get EU pet passports in France these days if you’re not a resident. (But GB health certificate should be okay.)

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Pet Travel UK: Moving to the UK with your pet

• 10 January 2022

Moving to the UK with a pet

For many of us, the idea of leaving to start a new life in a new country without taking a beloved pet is as absurd as leaving without taking a family member. Yet, with a number of rules and regulations, it isn’t always as easy as slipping your furry friend into your holdall and boarding a plane. 

If you’re moving to the UK and want to bring your pet along, these are certain things you need to keep in mind. Whether it’s pet travel from the US to the UK or pet travel from the EU to the UK, it can be a confusing process to the uninitiated. So let us take a look at how to move to the UK with your pet and what you will have to do before stepping down with your two feet and your favorite four-legged friend.

Can you bring your pet to the UK?

1- what pets are allowed into the uk.

When it comes to bringing pets into the UK, there are certain criteria depending on the type of animal you wish to bring. Common pets such as cats and dogs are permitted, along with pet ferrets. Although, this is all dependent on you having the correct health and documentation requirements for that particular pet. 

There are also a number of dog breeds that are banned within the UK, so these will not be permitted to enter the UK. If you are wondering about how to import a puppy into the UK, you must obtain a non-commercial UK health certificate for the UK completed by a licensed veterinarian. It must be issued within ten days of entering the UK.

When you are planning on bringing other animals in, these regulations will all depend on whether you are bringing them in from inside the EU or from outside of the EU. There are no restrictions on bringing pet rodents, rabbits, invertebrates, amphibians, or reptiles to Great Britain from EU countries. Yet, if you are bringing in a pet bird, you will need to present a health certificate.

When it comes to bringing in pets from outside the EU, the rules on what pets are allowed are slightly different. If you are bringing in pet rabbits or rodents, then you will need to quarantine them for four months when you arrive. You can usually bring in pet invertebrates, reptiles, and amphibians without any health certificates. You must have a signed declaration from the owners saying the animals are not for sale, able to complete the journey, and are fit and healthy.

2- Maximum number of pets you can bring

The maximum number of pets you can bring into the Uk is five. The only time you can break this rule is if you are attending or training for a competition, show, or sporting event. If this is the case, then you will need written evidence of registration for the event when you travel. Also, all the extra pets must be attending the event, be over six months old, and meet the general travel rules. You will also need to fill in a declaration that you are adhering to all these rules. If you are importing more than five pets that are not attending these events, this will fall under more commercial animal breeding or trade rules, which doesn’t constitute a pet.

3- Quarantine requirements

Quarantine rules and requirements are not what they used to be in the UK. It was once standard practice to quarantine pets, especially cats and dogs, in kennels for a six-month period. Now, the Pet Travel Scheme, known as PETS, means that as long as you adhere to the rules of the Pet Travel Scheme, then quarantine isn’t required. 

The Pet Travel Scheme permits pet travel to the UK. Dogs, cats, and ferrets can enter or re-enter the UK from qualified EU countries and non-EU “listed” countries. These listed countries include some non-EU countries in Europe and elsewhere in the world. Pet travel from the USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand are also included. 

The rules you need to follow to avoid quarantining your pet consist of having your pet microchipped, having a rabies vaccination, having tapeworm treatment, and if coming from outside the EU, a blood test after 30 days to ensure the rabies inoculation has succeeded in giving sufficient protection.

4- Banned dog breeds

Sadly, there are a number of dog breeds that are banned in the UK ; these dogs won’t be permitted to enter the country.  The four banned dog breeds are:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro

5- Guide and Assistance dogs

Guide and Assistance dogs are permitted to enter the UK and will be treated under the same regulations as other pets. This means you will need to have an Animal Health Certificate, have a microchip, be vaccinated against rabies, possibly blood tested, and be treated for tapeworm. 

Find more info on pet travel from the US to the UK here .

Again, not adhering to this may mean your dog will be denied entry or put into quarantine at the owner’s expense. Guide and assistance dogs, unlike pet dogs, are also permitted to travel with their owners in the cabin of the aircraft with UK, European, and most international airlines.

You can find up-to-date info on pet travel to the UK on the  official site .

Main requirements for pet transport to the UK

1- Microchip

When you are considering how to import a dog into the UK, you must ensure you follow the requirement of microchipping them. Pets who are not microchipped can be refused entry to the country. You must get your pet microchipped before, or at the same time as, their rabies vaccination. If you do not, they’ll need to be vaccinated again. 

If you travel by air, train, or ferry on approved routes, staff will check your microchip if it meets International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards. If the microchip in your pet doesn’t meet these standards then you may have to bring your own microchip reader when you travel.

If the vet is unable to read your pet’s microchip, you may have to rechip your pet, revaccinate your pet, take new blood tests if you’re traveling from a country that is not ‘listed’, issue a new pet passport or health certificate, and/or record the old and new microchips in the ‘Marking of animals’ section of the new passport.

2- Vaccination and health certificates

Before you can think of how to move to the UK with your pet, you will need to ensure they have the correct vaccinations and health certificates. This will include rabies vaccination; this can only be done by a qualified vet, who will also need proof that your pet’s at least 12 weeks old before vaccinating them. 

If you are bringing a pet from a non-listed country, then your pet must have a blood sample taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination. Your vet must then send the blood sample to an EU-approved blood testing laboratory from either inside the EU or outside the EU. This vaccination should be recorded on your health certificate. It must include the vaccine manufacturer and product name, the vaccination date, and the date it is valid until.

3- Tapeworm treatment

Another treatment that must be carried out and recorded in your health certificate is the treatment of tapeworms. The treatment must have been given no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before you enter Great Britain. Your dog can be refused entry or put into quarantine if you do not follow this rule. If you are entering the UK from  Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Malta, or Norway, you will not have to treat your dog for tapeworms.

4- Pet travel document or passport

For entering the UK with your pet, you will need to ensure you have a pet passport, as well as your own. Pet passports list the different treatments your pet has had, the details of the pet, and its markings. You can get the pet passport from a vet authorized to issue them in most countries. If your vet does not issue pet passports, ask them for the nearest one that does or contact the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

When you secure your pet passport, you must take with you your pet, your pet’s identity, vaccination records, and rabies blood test results if your pet needs them. You can also ask your vet to issue a Great Britain pet health certificate, though your pet must arrive in Great Britain within ten days of the pet health certificate being issued.

5- Requirements for pet travel from the EU

If you are traveling with your pet from the EU, then you will not need an animal health certificate if you have a pet passport issued within the EU. There are also different regulations for the type of pets you can bring into the UK if you are traveling from the EU. There are no restrictions on bringing pet rodents, rabbits, invertebrates, amphibians, or reptiles to Great Britain from EU countries. This also means they will not need to present a health certificate for these types of animals.

When bringing in your pet from the EU to the UK you will need to have one of the following documents. Either a pet passport issued in an EU country, a pet passport issued in a Part 1 listed country, or a pet passport issued in the United Kingdom issued before January the 1st 2021, as long as the journey is a direct one, from one EU nation to the UK.

6- Requirements for pet travel from the US

If you are concerned about how to move to the UK with your pet from the USA, it is slightly different from that of traveling with your pet from the EU. Similarly, you will need to ensure your pet is individually identified by an ISO-compliant microchip. 

Coming from the US, you will also need either a USDA Accredited Veterinarian or a Military Veterinarian to issue you a UK Health Certificate. A Military Veterinarian is defined as a Veterinary Corps Officer or civilian series government veterinarian employed by the U.S. Army Veterinary Service working at military treatment facilities. After the pet’s USDA Accredited Veterinarian has completed and signed the EU/UK Health Certificate, have the pet’s completed health certificate endorsed by your  USDA APHIS Veterinary Services Endorsement Office.

6- Requirements for pet travel from other countries

Pet travel from other countries, one’s that are known as unlisted, will have to go through the whole works. You must ensure your pet is microchipped under the standards expected by the UK government. Your pet must also be vaccinated against rabies. There is no exemption to this requirement from unlisted countries, even if your pet has a current rabies vaccination.

Once your pet is vaccinated for rabies, a blood sample must be taken at least 30 days after the vaccination. You cannot enter the UK until three months after the date your vet took a satisfactory blood sample. Unique documentation will also be needed, which means you will need to obtain an official third-country veterinary certificate. It is also important to remember that if you are traveling from an unlisted country, you must travel on an authorized route and with an approved transport company.

How much does it cost to import a dog into the UK?

With all the procedures, paperwork, and the excitement of moving to the UK with your pet, the cost of doing such a thing may pass you by. Most of the dog’s moving budget will undoubtedly be spent on airline coasts.

Due to the extra care and attention the animal will need during the flight, tickets for dogs are likely to be more expensive than regular passenger ticket prices. The majority of airlines will set the price of the ticket based on the volume of the travel crate or the weight of the dog and crate together. Depending on where you are flying the dog from, the cost of this can be between £180 and £225.

Aside from the most obvious costs of transporting your pet on the airline, you will also have to take into consideration the veterinary fees. This will either be done through pet insurance or paying outright. The rabies vaccination is likely to set you back around £50, likewise with the tapeworm medicine.

Alternatively, you could also use a Pet relocation service .

What are the best ways to travel into the UK with your pet from the EU?

When it comes to travel in general, it can often be a frustrating and exhausting experience. When you add a beloved family pet into the mix, this only adds to effort and possible stress. This being said, it’s important to think about the whole process, from your point of view and the comfort of your pet.

One of the fastest ways to travel with your pet to the UK is to take it on a flight and trust it to the cargo hold for dogs. Although this is the quickest way, many dogs may find it a little distressing as you can’t be with your dog as you fly. Better alternatives are to take the cross-channel ferry or tunnel from France to the UK.

By traveling on the channel ferry, you can leave your dog in the car for the 90-minute crossing, a lot less stressful than flying. Alternatively, you can take the cross channel tunnel, which, although your pet isn’t allowed to leave the car, will enable you to be in its presence, which will only help ease the crossing.

How to find pet-friendly accommodation in the UK?

You can find pet-friendly rentals in major UK cities using the Homelike platform. Just choose the “Pets allowed” filter in the apartments page

– London apartments – Oxford apartments – Cambridge apartments – Manchester apartments – Edinburgh apartments

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Here’s How To Get Through The Eurotunnel With Your Dog

April 1, 2022

Traveling with your dog to England when you’re already in Europe

How do you get a dog into England once you’re already in the EU? Are you trying to travel with your dog between Europe and the UK ? Answers below.

Truthfully, the Eurostar passenger train is not dog-friendly. A private car service could cost upwards of $600, and who really wants to deal with renting a car along with the hassle of city parking and more? Oh, and there are ferries you can take from France to England, but your dog is not allowed to be with you at your seat. Dogs must stay in a separate “pet area,” which is just a cluster of dirty crates — the thought of the Frenchies down there all alone, or worse, someone stealing them, freaked me out. No way . And the ferry is not cheap, either.

But what about taking your dog through the Eurotunnel? Instead of traveling by passenger train, you can go by car. Makes it way easier to get you and your dog from the EU to the UK . Our brave friend Coco and her Frenchie Elle shared with us their journey going through the Eurotunnel (London to Paris) last year via the ferry and on the way back took a ridesharing service called BlablaCar . It’s almost like an Uber but for planned trips. 

You can look up rides like Paris to London or Paris to Nice and carpool with drivers which ends up being very cost-effective (anywhere from €20-60 one-way and pay for a second seat for the pooch)!

You just need to ask the driver beforehand if they allow dogs.

Perfect! This seemed like the way to go but there were no available rides during my dates. When a ride did pop up, it seemed to get booked right away or wasn’t pet-friendly. After waiting and crossing my fingers for a week, I bit the bullet two days before the trip and decided to go via trains + Folkestone Taxi Co.

From EU to UK with my dogs : Paris to Calais – Eurotunnel – Calais to London 

First, buy a ticket from Paris to Calais. French trains are dog-friendly (up to two dogs per passenger) as long as your dog is in a bag. If your dog is more than 13 lbs then no bag is necessary — you can bring them on a leash and they must have a muzzle on.

Find routes on Loco2 and Trainline . Cost: varies; mine was €42 (with a connecting stop) and the ride takes less than an hour. With a connecting stop, it’s a bit longer. It’s €7 for a dog in carrier or half the 2nd class full fare if your dog is over 13 lbs and on a leash.

Book this sooner than later as they book quickly!

Thankfully, Weston didn’t have to wear the muzzle, as I kept it in my bag just in case someone asked for it. Nobody did — in fact, no one even asked to see my ticket or the dogs’ tickets!

Once you arrive in Calais, this is where Folkestone Taxi comes in. You can book their taxi service to ride onto the Eurotunnel and arrive in Folkestone Central Train Station in England. This is the easiest and most comfortable way to bring your dog from the EU to England.

Your driver takes care of everything and you get to sit back and relax. Your dog gets to sit with you and you never have to leave the car. They meet you at the Calais station with a sign, help you with your bags and then you settle into the car. They even provided blankets! Cost: £125 + £96 for the Eurotunnel ticket and the ride is thirty-five minutes (as of February 2024, this rate has definitely increased) .

The taxi drives to pet clearance first where you go in and have your pet’s passport and documents looked over. Make sure everything is correct and you have backup papers as they are very strict. There is also a local vet ( cash only ) nearby in case anything is missing and you need new paperwork or treatments.

Wow, lots of pets!

Then you drive through the Passport Control where they look at your passport, then onto the Eurotunnel shuttle! The car gets turned off and you sit in the car for thirty-five minutes. A good time to charge your phone, have a chat with your friendly driver and give your dog a treat. 🙂 A pretty hassle-free way to travel with your dog to the UK from France.

Once you arrive in Folkestone, you’ll need to book another train to get from Folkestone to London. They run every half hour. Find tickets on National Rail . Cost: on average £20 and takes 55 minutes. Pets travel free (up to two). If you want to to skip the train and continue the ride with Folkestone Taxi, it’s another couple hundred pounds extra but may be worth it if you have a lot of luggage and want to make your journey even easier.

Does my dog need a Great Britain pet health certificate?

If you don’t have a pet passport for your dog, don’t worry. You can get a Great Britain pet health certificate instead. Print out the form and have your vet fill it out within 10 days of entering UK. 

All pets entering into the UK need a tapeworm treatment within 5 days of traveling and a pet passport. 

From the UK Gov website:

“A vet must treat your dog for tapeworm and record it in the pet passport or health certificate  every time you want to bring it to Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland). The treatment must have been given no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before you enter Great Britain. Your dog can be refused entry or  put into quarantine if you do not follow this rule.”

What to bring: your passport, your pet’s passport or Great Britain pet health certificate, tickets (mine were all on mobile) and Folkestone keeps a hard copy of your Eurotunnel ticket for you, treats and pet wipes.

Did you find this post helpful? Leave a comment if you have questions or share your story traveling to the UK.

Want to read more? Check out articles on my How to Fly With Your Dog page or stay connected by following along on Weston and Fira’s travels on Instagram.

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May 31, 2018 at 8:20 pm

Such good info!!! I’ve always wondered how to get around the quarantine, this is a great plan.

Woof Xo, Michelle & Watson

https://www.watsonandwalls.com/

January 11, 2019 at 4:56 pm

Thank you for this! I was looking for info all over the internet as renting a car from Paris and dropping off in London was insanely expensive. Everything seemed to inform that DFDS was the only company that would allow foot passengers with pets and when I tried to buy the tickets…. fail.

This helped me loads and also aligned with the sort of path I was going eventually. I booked with the Taxi company and it was the same price you put here which made me trust them as another company gave me a quote for 250€ + EuroTunnel and they were quite rude.

Anyway, thanks! Great info, very helpful!

January 14, 2019 at 7:52 pm

So glad to hear!! 🙂

August 4, 2019 at 6:15 pm

Thank you very much for your advice. I have to travel with my dog from Paris to Calais, but I can’t book pet’s ticket online. I feel like calling a number but I can’t use it from Italy, so how can I book the Paris – Calais train signaling the presence of my little dog? Thank you!

September 20, 2019 at 6:17 am

Thanks for the great info!

December 25, 2019 at 7:24 pm

Can I ask you where do you get this nice muzzle?

February 25, 2021 at 10:38 pm

Hi there, thank you su much for this! very helpful. can I ask which train from Paris to Calais you booked? You mentioned it’s 30 mins but I can only find 2h+.

August 17, 2021 at 1:56 pm

Agreed I can’t find any either. Did you figure it out?

October 27, 2022 at 12:54 pm

http://www.sncf-connect.com Here you can find trains that take 1.5 hr from Paris to Calais

June 7, 2021 at 2:47 pm

Thank you so much for this 🤍😭 as you can imagine, traveling from the US to the UK is a pain in the A** right now with quarantine & brexit. This is helpful. Thanks !

July 1, 2021 at 11:35 pm

Hi, Just read your post. It was quite helpful! Does the company also do the trip back – Folkestone in Kent, to Coquelles in Pas-de-Calais, France?

December 18, 2021 at 3:43 am

Im travelling from Canada to UK, flying to france and taking the ferry. Im nervous about the issuing country for the health certificate.

Is it ok to travel with a health certificate from Canada, which is signed off for both france and UK entry. Or will I need a health cert issued from France?

December 24, 2021 at 12:07 pm

I have a similar question. I will be traveling to the UK from the US via France and I want to make sure I have the paperwork needed. I know I will need a health cert to enter France but will I need to obtain a new health certificate in France to enter the UK?

Any info would be greatly appreciated!

June 20, 2022 at 8:48 pm

I am in the same boat as you were. How were you able to get to the UK via France from the US? Did you need to get multiple health certificates?

As you said, any help would be greatly appreciated!!

March 21, 2022 at 11:35 am

I am in Ibis hotel at Charles Degaul airport how do I book my ticket with Folkston taxis I have to get a cab to train station in the morning to go to Calais all alone and very worried please help my email is,[email protected]

March 25, 2022 at 5:37 pm

Thank YOU so much, just saved me so much money 🙂

April 26, 2022 at 1:02 am

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. This is extremely helpful. I have been trying to funds ways with a reasonable cost. Thank you soooo very much again. I need to do the same.

Gratefully, Ravipa, David, two Shitzus and a Cavalier

July 30, 2022 at 11:42 pm

Hi, is there a fee for them to check over your dog’s health certificates etc when you arrive in the UK? I know if you travel by plane to a UK airport they seem to charge over £400 to check the dog’s paperwork.

August 22, 2022 at 5:56 pm

Hey this is all incredibly helpful, I want to travel from the UK to France with my doggo and am I right in assuming it would work the same the opposite way around?

September 9, 2022 at 12:15 am

Great article but it needs to be updated. The cost for Folkstone taxi was quoted at a much higher rate than suggested in the article. Also the link for the ride-share is nonexistent. The website domaine is up for sale

September 23, 2022 at 9:47 pm

Yeah, I also got an expensive quote from Folkstone taxi. It states 175 (taxi) + 234 (Eurotunnel ticket). For one way from Folkstone to Calais on 15th of October.

Anyone travelling at the same time? May be we can share perhaps.

April 11, 2024 at 5:58 pm

I am afraid this information is extremely outdated (or alternatively, this Folksetone Taxi company has been taken over by some extremely greedy creatures. We just got a quote from them to get through the tunnel for a total of £730 (or US$915, or 850 Euro at exchange rates of this post).

So, the mellow cost of “£125 + £96” seems ancient history…

Here is the email they sent us:

The price of a trip from Southampton to Calasi is £480, plus the cost of the Eurotunnel ticket, which is selling at approximately £249 on 7th July. This is accurate at the time of the quote but can change due to dates, times and availability.

There is also the option to upgrade your ticket to a flexiplus ticket which allows you to travel as soon as you arrive at the terminal no matter what the time is, gives you a dedicated lane for check in, priority boarding and access to the flexiplus lounge facilities. If this is something you would be interested in please ask us to include this option in your quote.

To make a booking we need to know your collection and drop off locations, the time and date, how much luggage you will have and a contact number for on the day. Once we have all of this information, we will be able to give you a more accurate quote.

Your pet does not have to travel in a crate.

Upon payment by debit/credit card or bank transfer (there is a £1 admin fee for UK cards or 3% for all other cards. There is no charge for a UK bank transfer, or £7 for a non-UK transfer), we will book the Eurotunnel ticket and we will send you your booking confirmation which includes a copy of your ticket and contact details for your driver.

Please check this link for your pet’s travel requirements: https://www.eurotunnel.com/uk/travelling-with-us/travelling-with-your-pet/checklist/

If there are any problems with your pet’s paperwork and you have to visit a local vet this will incur extra expenses, not only with the vet but also with the taxi at a rate of £20 per hour. If the delay is more than two hours, then there may be an extra cost for your tunnel tickets. Please see the link above for the requirements.

Thank you for your enquiry Kelsey At Pet Travel Abroad

November 28, 2022 at 2:29 pm

Hi, Nice blog. I also used Folkestone Taxi services in 2021 to bring my cat from USA –> Paris –> UK (Folkestone was used for the Paris-UK leg) because the UK does not allow pets to fly in cabin to enter or leave UK. We used their service the whole way from Paris to London which was a few grand. Expensive but we were traveling with a lot of baggage so the least hassle option we had. Entering/leaving UK with pets is a nightmare (worsened by Brexit) so best of luck to all pet owners working on this!

December 28, 2022 at 9:42 pm

Hi – like others, I am very grateful for the information you have supplied, thank you!!! I am travelling Air France, Toronto to Paris, on 09 January 2023 with a small dog. Has anyone done this trip recently? Can you offer any other guidance? Thanks Annie

January 7, 2023 at 2:21 pm

We are doing Air France from Dallas to Paris Feb 1 2023 with 2 dogs. Would love to hear how it goes for you. I’m especially interested to hear how it is with Air France and how strict they are. We’re nervous they might reject one of our dogs for being slightly too heavy (he’s 15lbs, bag is ~3lbs – limit is 17.5), or that we’re using an oversized pet bag for him. Good luck!

January 23, 2023 at 12:18 pm

super helpful and detailed, thank you!!

January 27, 2023 at 2:16 am

Hey, what is the closest train station called to the pet reception center in Calais? Thank you!

April 19, 2023 at 12:05 pm

this is great info thank you! doing pretty much the same for my cat! one thing just to note: only dogs need the tapeworm treatment 1-5 days before entering uk. Cat’s don’t need anything else than the heath certificate.

May 5, 2023 at 5:27 am

This was a great post. what you said is really helpful to me and it was really interesting as well. Keep up with your good work.

June 14, 2023 at 11:29 pm

I was just wondering how much you had to pay outside of the fees mentioned above. I’ve heard about paying a pet import fee of ~400 bucks. Is this something you had to do when taking this route? Also, did the pet passport cost you anything or was it just the health certificate form that needs to be filled out and signed by your vet?

July 8, 2023 at 5:48 pm

Sadly the Le Shuttle fees are outrageously expensive.

August 2, 2023 at 6:26 am

Excellent information – Simple and detailed. Thank you for sharing this

September 4, 2023 at 11:23 am

I found the post to be highly good. The shared information are greatly appreciated

September 5, 2023 at 10:27 am

The post was truly enjoyable. I value your contribution and the information you shared. Regards

April 22, 2024 at 5:44 am

Just for your information. Brittany ferries have various options. They do a service now that you can book dog friendly cabins on certain routes. Also depending on where you want to arrive in the uk there is availability for the shorter routes to stay in the car. PandO do a dog friendly restaurant so for the hour and a half travel you can sit together. This is £12 per dog. You need to check on each provider. We have a cabin with our two dogs. Travelling Newcastle to Rotterdam. Not sure what we will do to return but thankfully the ferry companies have realised that so many people travel with their dogs now.

April 23, 2024 at 7:27 pm

This is great info- thanks for sharing Charlotte!

May 16, 2024 at 10:30 am

Hi thank you for sharing your experience, this is great information. Could you please share how/where did you book the Folkestone Taxi service? 🙂

Many thanks for your help.

[…] the border getting into England from France, there’s even a cash-only vet very close to the Eurotunnel who specializes in circumstances […]

[…] Getting from Paris to London isn’t exactly the easiest but it is possible. We made the trip twice. I recommend doing private car (Folkestone Taxi serivce) the whole way. Expensive but worth it.  […]

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Travelling to and from the United Kingdom with your pet after Brexit

If you want to bring pets from the EU to the United Kingdom, nothing has changed after 1 January 2021. By pets we mean cats, dogs and ferrets.

Travelling from the Netherlands to the United Kingdom

If you want to travel to the United Kingdom from the EU with a pet after Brexit, the United Kingdom has hitherto indicated that the current rules will remain unchanged. This means that the following requirements will continue to apply:

• Identification chip (the pet must have been microchipped prior to being vaccinated against rabies)
• Rabies vaccination (the pet may not travel until 21 days after the first dose)
• A valid European pet passport
• Treatment against tapeworm (Echinococcus). This applies exclusively to dogs and must have taken place at least one day (24 hours) and at most five days (120 hours) before entry into the United Kingdom.
• A non-commercial declaration you must fill in yourself to confirm that you won't sell or transfer the animal to a new owner in the UK.

You can only use certain travel routes and companies to enter Great Britain with your pet.

For commercial export of dogs, cats and ferrets to the United Kingdom you need a health certificate. This can only be issued by the NVWA. The commercial rules for exporting dogs, cats and ferrets must be followed if:

• their ownership is being transferred;
• you are not travelling to the United Kingdom within 5 days before or after the arrival of your pet;
• you are travelling with more than 5 pets (exception: exhibitions or competitions). 

You can find more information about the health certificate using our export assistant (Dutch only). 

Banned dogs

Some dogs are banned in the UK. The following types of dogs are banned:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Argentine Dogo
• Fila Brasileiro.

Whether a dog is a banned type depends on what it looks like, rather than its breed or name. For more information, see the banned dogs page on the gov.uk website.

Travelling with a different kind of pet

If you want to bring pets other than cats, dogs or ferrets to the United Kingdom, please check our export assistant (Dutch only) to check if there’s a health certificate available for this type of animal. Planning to take your horse to the United Kingdom? Please use the  online guide (Dutch only) to check what the requirements are. For more information, please contact the authorities in the United Kingdom by sending a message to [email protected] .

Travelling from the United Kingdom to the Netherlands

If you want to travel or return to the Netherlands from the United Kingdom, you do not need a blood test, but your dog, cat or ferret must meet at least the following requirements:

• identification chip (the pet must have been microchipped prior to being vaccinated against rabies);
• rabies vaccination (the pet may not travel until 21 days after the first dose);
• a valid travel document.

What is a valid travel document?

A valid travel document is:

• a European pet passport issued in a Member State of the European Union; or
• an animal health certificate issued by the official authority in the United Kingdom.

What is not a valid travel document?

The following is not a valid travel document:

• a European pet passport issued in the United Kingdom before 1 January 2021.

Please note: since 1 January 2021, veterinarians in the United Kingdom are no longer allowed to enter rabies vaccinations in a European pet passport. A veterinarian in the United Kingdom must record these vaccinations in an animal health certificate if you are planning to travel to the European Union with your pet.

A blood test which proves that your pet is sufficiently protected against rabies is not necessary for dogs, cats and ferrets travelling from the UK to the EU. Since 9 December 2020, the EU has designated the UK a low-risk country for rabies.  On arrival at the ferry terminal or airport in the Netherlands, you must report your pet to customs (goods to declare). Customs will check your pet and its papers.

Arrange a flight if you want to buy an animal or travel with more than five animals

If you buy a dog, cat or ferret in the UK that you are not picking up yourself or if you travel to the Netherlands with more than five animals per person, then the animals must be inspected on arrival in the EU at a designated border control post. In the Netherlands, this is only possible at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. This means that you may not transport the animals by ferry from the UK directly to the Netherlands. 

Exception: exhibition or competition

If you are travelling with more than five dogs, cats or ferrets per person to take part in an exhibition or competition, you can travel or return to the EU with your animals without the animals being inspected on arrival. To qualify for this exception, you must have written proof that the animals are registered to participate in the event. In addition, the animals must be older than six months.

Travelling with a different kind of pet?

If you want to bring a pet which is not a dog, cat or ferret from the United Kingdom, please contact us:

Protected species (CITES)

You may wish to travel to the United Kingdom with an animal that belongs to a protected species. If you wish to import a protected species from a country outside the EU, you may also need a CITES permit. For more information, visit the Trade in protected species section on the Netherlands Enterprise Agency website.

Travelling from a country outside of the EU to the United Kingdom through the Netherlands

Are you travelling through the Netherlands from a country outside of the European Union to the United Kingdom? For example, to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and then by ferry to the United Kingdom? Then your pet must also comply with the requirements of the European Union. The health certificate required to travel to the United Kingdom is not sufficient as a valid travel document. For more information about the requirements of the United Kingdom, see the website bring pet to great britain . For more information about the EU requirements, see travelling to the Netherlands with your dog or cat .

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From August 1, 2024, Onward: What Your Dog Needs to Enter the United States

At a glance.

Starting on August 1, 2024, dogs entering or returning to the United States must meet new, specific requirements depending on where they have been in the 6 months before entering the U.S. and where they received their rabies vaccines (if required).

Requirements for all dogs

Requirements for dogs with a current and valid rabies vaccination administered in the united states.

• Requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs that have been in a country with high risk of dog rabies within 6 months before entry

Requirements for dogs that have been ONLY in countries that are dog rabies-free or low-risk during the 6 months before entry

All dogs must:

• Be at least 6 months of age at time of entry or return to the United States
• This must have been implanted prior to any required rabies vaccination
• The microchip number must be documented on all required forms and in all accompanying veterinary records
• Dogs may not enter the United States if they are carrying a disease contagious to people.
• Isolation of the dog, veterinary examination, and additional testing, at the importer’s expense, may be required to determine if the dog has a contagious disease and prevent spread if the dog does not appear healthy upon arrival.

This form should be filled out online ideally 2-10 days before arrival; however, it can also be completed right before travel (even in line at the border crossing) if you have internet access. If the information on the form changes before the dog arrives, you must submit a new form and indicate you are making changes to an existing form. All information, including port of entry where the dog is arriving, must be correct at time of arrival.

• This form requires you to upload a clear photograph of the dog showing its face and body. Dogs that will be less than one year of age at time of arrival should have the photograph taken within 10 days before arrival.
• There is no charge to importers for submitting this form.
• Additional requirements for dogs with a current rabies vaccination administered in the United States
• Additional requirements for dogs that have been in a country at high-risk for dog rabies within the 6 months before entry and do NOT have appropriate documentation of current US-issued rabies vaccine
• Additional requirements for dogs that have been ONLY in countries that are dog rabies-free or low-risk in the 6 months before entry

Dogs that do not meet all entry requirements or do not have accurate and valid forms will be denied entry to the United States and returned to the country of departure at the importer’s expense. These requirements apply to all dogs, including service dogs and dogs that were born in the United States.

Specific requirements depend on whether the dog has been in a high-risk country for dog rabies  in the past 6 months.

Dogs with a current rabies vaccination administered in the United States that have been in a high-risk country for dog rabies must:  

• Meet all requirements in the “All Dogs” section above
• The Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination form is required for the importation (re-entry) of U.S.-vaccinated dogs that have been in high-risk countries for dog rabies  within the 6 months before re-entry into the United States.
• Please note, during the transition period (which will expire on July 31, 2025), the importer may instead present a copy of the USDA-endorsed export health certificate that was used to ship the dog from the United States, if that export health certificate was issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian before July 31, 2025, and documents the dog’s age (at least 6 months), the microchip number, and valid rabies vaccination administered in the United States. The rabies vaccination must be valid (not expired) on the date of return or the form will be invalid.
• This can be any airport, land border crossing, or sea port but you must select this location when you complete the CDC Dog Import Form.

Dogs with a current rabies vaccination administered in the United States that have NOT been in a high-risk country in the last 6 months must:

• A Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccine form that was endorsed by USDA before the dog departed the United States; or
• Be for the dog rabies-free or low-risk country where the dog’s return itinerary originated (the form will only be valid for 30 days if it does not contain rabies vaccination information), or
• Document a valid (unexpired) rabies vaccination administered in the United States (the form will be valid for the duration of the rabies vaccination (1 or 3 years)).
• (This can be any airport, land border crossing, or sea port but you must select this location when you complete the CDC Dog Import Form .)

Important information about the Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination Form

The Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form must be completed before the dog departs the U.S. Before asking your veterinarian to complete this form, verify the following requirements will be met:

• Ensure your dog will be at least 6 months of age on date of return to the U.S.
• Have your dog microchipped with an International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip (implanted before any required rabies vaccinations)
• Ensure the veterinarian scans the dog for the ISO-compatible microchip and records the microchip number at the time of vaccine appointment. Rabies vaccines administered prior to microchip implantation will not be considered valid.
• Ensure the rabies vaccination will be valid for the entire duration of your travels.  If your dog’s U.S.-issued rabies vaccination lapses while overseas and your dog has been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months, your dog will need to be revaccinated overseas and meet requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs to return to the U.S., including having a rabies serology titer, arriving at a specific port of entry, and possible quarantine requirements.
• Your dog must receive its initial (first) rabies vaccine at least 28 days before leaving the United States. USDA-accredited veterinarians should only issue the Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination form for dogs that received their initial (first) rabies vaccine at least 28-days previously. Booster vaccines are considered valid immediately.
• Ensure the veterinarian submits this form to the USDA for official endorsement through the VEHCS portal
• Your dog must travel with a printed copy of the official endorsed form upon your dog’s return to the United States if your dog has been in a high-risk country within the 6 months before returning to the U.S.

During the transition period (which will expire on July 31, 2025), U.S.-vaccinated dogs that have been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months, may have either the Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form or the USDA endorsed export health certificate for re-entry into the United States. Without one of these forms your dog will need to meet the requirements specific to the risk category of the countries where they have been in the 6 months before returning to the United States.

The export health certificate must be issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian before July 31, 2025, and document the dog’s age (at least 6 months), microchip number, and the rabies vaccination date. The rabies vaccine must be valid (not expired) on the date of return or the form will be invalid.

Requirements for foreign-vaccinated dogs that have been in a country with high risk of dog rabies within 6 months before entry

Dogs, including service dogs, that have been in a country at high-risk for dog rabies within the 6 months before entry and do not have appropriate documentation of current U.S.-issued rabies vaccine must:

• Meet all requirements in the “All Dogs” section
• Ensure the dog is microchipped with an International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip before receiving the rabies vaccination and the number is recorded on the veterinary documents or the vaccine will not be considered valid
• Verify the dog is at least 12 weeks (84 days) of age when vaccinated against rabies
• The dog must have a valid (i.e., non-expired) rabies vaccination. If it’s the dog’s first vaccination or if the dog’s vaccination coverage has lapsed, the vaccine must be administered at least 28 days before arrival to the United States.
• The Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form must be completed by your veterinarian AND endorsed by an official veterinarian in the exporting country.
• The blood sample for the rabies serology titer must have been drawn at least 30 days after the dog’s first valid rabies vaccination and at least 28 days before entry to the U.S.
• Dogs with a history of multiple valid rabies vaccinations administered after the microchip was placed may have the sample for the rabies serology titer drawn at any time after a rabies booster vaccination as long as the dog’s first vaccine was given at least 30 days before the blood sample was drawn and there has been no lapse in vaccine coverage. If a lapse occurs, the sample must be drawn at least 30 days after the valid booster vaccination was administered.
• The sample must be sent to a CDC-approved rabies serology laboratory . If there is no CDC-approved laboratory in your country, your veterinarian may draw the sample and send it internationally to a CDC-approved laboratory.
• Passing results must be obtained in order for a serology to be valid.
• Rabies serology titer results will be considered valid for the life of the dog as long as the dog’s rabies vaccination coverage does not lapse. If a lapse occurs, a new rabies serology titer will be required and that sample must be drawn at least 30 days after the new vaccination was administered.
• If the dog does not have a valid rabies serology titer, it will be required to be quarantined at a CDC-registered animal care facility for 28 days after the dog is revaccinated by the facility’s veterinarian.
• All foreign-vaccinated dogs that have been in a high-risk country in the previous 6 months must have a reservation for examination, verification of age, documents, and microchip number, and administration of a rabies booster vaccination at a CDC-registered animal care facility immediately upon arrival in the United States.
• Dogs that do not have a valid rabies serology titer must also have a reservation for quarantine. Dogs will be quarantined at the facility for 28 days at the importer’s expense after being revaccinated by the facility’s veterinarian.
• All CDC-registered animal care facility expenses, including exam, revaccination, and quarantine (if required), are the responsibility of the importer.
• The facility will need copies of all required documents prior to confirming your reservation.
• Ensure the dog meets any facility-specific requirements (contact facility for additional information).
• If after arrival the CDC-registered animal care facility determines that your documents are not valid or the dog’s microchip number, age, or description does not match the paperwork provided, the dog may be denied entry and returned to the country of departure at your expense.
• Dogs that have evidence of illness or are not healthy will be required to have testing to confirm they do not have contagious diseases before they will be eligible for release, which may extend the required quarantine period beyond 28 days. Any required testing or extended stay in quarantine will be at the importer’s expense, so please ensure dogs are healthy upon arrival (including no evidence of fleas, ticks, or skin diseases).
• Dogs must arrive to the U.S. at the airport where the CDC-registered animal care facility is located. This must be the location where the dog has a reservation.
• This must also be the airport listed on the CDC Dog Import Form
• Domestic flights or other forms of travel to other locations in the U.S. are not permitted until after the dog receives required follow-up services at the CDC-registered animal care facility and is cleared for entry.
• SERVICE DOGS ARRIVING BY SEA : Service dogs, as defined in 14 CFR 382.3, may arrive by sea if they meet the requirements in the “All Dogs” section, have a complete Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form and a valid rabies serology titer, and are traveling with their handler. Emotional support animals are not service animals under this definition.

Countries that are not on the list of countries at high risk for dog rabies  are considered to be free of or low risk for dog-mediated rabies virus variant (DMRVV) (called dog rabies-free or low-risk countries on these webpages).

Dogs, including service dogs, that have been ONLY in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries during the 6 months before entry into the United States must:

• A single entry into the U.S. for 30 days after it was issued if it does not contain information about rabies vaccination administered in a dog rabies-free or low-risk country, OR
• Multiple entries into the U.S. for the duration the rabies vaccination is valid (1 or 3 years) if the rabies vaccination was administered in a dog rabies-free or low-risk country
• Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form, including the endorsement by an official veterinarian of the dog rabies-free or low-risk country where the dog has been located; AND EITHER (1) a valid rabies serology titer OR (2) veterinary records* (which list the microchip number) for the dog from the exporting country for the previous 6 months. The form must be completed within 30 days before arrival to the United States and is valid for a single entry.
• Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form that was endorsed by USDA before the dog departed the United States
• Is for the dog rabies-free or low-risk country where the dog’s return itinerary originated (the form will only be valid for 30 days if it does not contain rabies vaccination information), or
• Documents a valid (unexpired) rabies vaccination administered in the United States (the form will be valid for the duration of the rabies vaccination (1 or 3 years)).
• Foreign export certificate that documents the dog is at least 6 months of age, lists the dog’s International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip number, and has been endorsed by an official veterinarian of the exporting country; AND veterinary records* (which list the microchip number) for the dog from the exporting country for the previous 6 months. The certificate must be issued within 30 days before arrival to the United States and is valid for a single entry.
• Arrive at the location listed on the CDC Dog Import Form receipt (This can be any airport, land border crossing, or sea port but you must select it when you complete the CDC Dog Import Form .)

Any documentation that is not from the United States must be completed in the country where the dog’s travel originates. For example, if the dog’s documents were issued in France, the dog may not enter the U.S. via a land-border crossing from Mexico to the U.S.

*Examples of veterinary records that must accompany completed forms are European Union pet passports or proof of payment for veterinary services received in the exporting low-risk country for the previous 6 months. Records must include the dog’s microchip number.

For more information, see: Frequently Asked Questions on CDC Dog Importations  

If you have questions or need more information, please contact CDC-INFO at (800) 232-4636.

• Travelers' Health
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Traveling with your dog? Try these three trainer-approved tips for a stress-free trip

If you want to enjoy calmer travels with your canine companion, this trainer's simple tips are well worth trying.

Will you be traveling with your pup this summer? This time of year, many of us are getting ready to head away for a well-deserved break — and we might be bringing our dogs along for the journey!

But whether you’re heading to the beach, going for a relaxing break in the country, or simply going to stay with family or friends, there are some things to try to make the trip less stressful for your furry friend — including bringing along some of the best dog toys ! After all, while they might be in line for a week or two of fun, it’s still a disruption to their usual routine.

Juliana DeWillems, the owner and head trainer at JW Dog Training & Behavior , has everything you need to know in a recent Instagram post.

A post shared by JW Dog Training & Behavior Consulting (@jwdogtraining) A photo posted by on

“Here are three ways to help your dog feel more comfortable with upcoming travel,” begins DeWillems, “Because we know when we reduce their stress, we also reduce our own stress.”

1. Make your dog familiar with the arrangements beforehand: “First, acclimatize your dog to their travel crate or car seat before your trip,” says DeWillems. “For my dog, that’s getting her used to her travel carrier. I use a lot of treats and patience to show her that the carrier is a comfortable and safe space for her.”

Remember to take quite a lot of time for this — don’t leave it to the day before you travel to start!

2. Pack some favorite familiar items: “The simple detail of having their favorite beds, toys, or bowls from home can help put a dog at ease in the new space,” DeWillems explains – if you want to know how to travel with a dog , this will make things a whole lot easier!

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As she continues in the caption, “Familiarity goes a long way when your dog is in a new place.”

3. Use pheromone calming products: These products — like sprays and diffusers — send calming signals into the environment, helping to reduce your pup’s stress. “You can use the spray in your car and in your dog’s carrier, as well as at your destination,” says DeWillems.

This can also be one of the best ways to calm your dog during windy and bad weather , too, so pheromone calming products are good to have with you just in case the weather on your vacation doesn’t quite go to plan!

And remember, she concludes, “Proactively planning ahead can help make summer trips way more fun and way less stressful for you and your pup.”

So, take some time out before you head on your travels, and both you and your pup will benefit from it when the time comes for your vacation. You might find these 32 tips for traveling with pets useful, too .

West Paw Toppl Dog Toy $29.95 from Chewy A treat dispensing puzzle that can be filled with kibble, peanut butter, cheese chunks or smashed banana, this toy is ideal for giving your dog's brain a good workout.

Adam is a freelance journalist covering pets, lifestyle, health and culture, and he has six years' experience in journalism. He was senior editor at DogTime.com , and has written for The Independent , GoodToKnow and Healthline . 

He's also spent the last few years studying towards undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in journalism. While a cat person at heart, he's often visiting his parents' golden retriever, and when he's not writing about everything pets he's probably drinking coffee, visiting a cat cafe, or listening to live music.

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New rules for pet travel from 1 January 2021

Pet owners will need to follow new requirements before taking their pet to the European Union or Northern Ireland at the end of the transition period.

Pet owners are being encouraged to check the latest government advice about travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland or the European Union with their pets at the end of the transition period.

The government has worked alongside the European Commission to ensure pet travel can continue between Great Britain and the EU and Northern Ireland at the end of the transition period.

From 1 January 2021 onwards, the UK will have Part 2 listed status under the EU Pet Travel Scheme, meaning that people travelling from GB with their pets and assistance dogs will need to follow new requirements in order to travel to the EU and Northern Ireland.

Before taking their dog, cat or ferret to the EU for the first time after 1 January 2021, pet owners must complete the following steps. The only new requirement for travel to the EU is the use of a certificate, rather than a pet passport:

• Ensure their dog, cat or ferret is microchipped.
• Ensure that their dog, cat or ferret is vaccinated against rabies – pets must be at least 12 weeks old before they can be vaccinated.
• Wait 21 days after the primary vaccination before travel
• Dogs must be treated against tapeworm 24-120 hours before landing, if they are travelling to a tapeworm free country.
• Visit their vet to get an animal health certificate (AHC) for their pet, no more than 10 days before travel to the EU.

Pets and assistance dogs will also need to enter the EU through a travellers’ point of entry (TPE) , which includes all the major French ports such as Calais, Caen and Dunkirk.

All of these requirements will also apply for movements of pets and assistance dogs from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. However recognising that these changes will take time to adjust to, the UK Government is working with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland on an enforcement approach that takes this challenge into account. This approach will be implemented in a way which supports pet owners and assistance dog users while the Government pursues a permanent solution.

There will be no change to the current health preparations or documents for pets entering Great Britain from the EU or Northern Ireland from 1 January 2021.

Christine Middlemiss, UK Chief Veterinary Officer, said:

We have been granted ‘Part 2’ listed third country status by the EU which will ensure that travelling with your pet continues from 1 January onwards. Your vet will be able to advise what you need to do in order to obtain the correct documentation to travel and you can find the latest pet travel advice on gov.uk or by searching ‘pet travel’.

Updated guidance on pet travel has been available since November 2018, ensuring that owners will be ready for any future scenario, so many pet owners will already be familiar with that they need to do.

The UK government is continuing to press the European Commission to secure Part 1 listed status. The UK has one of the most rigorous pet checking regimes in Europe and currently meets all the requirements for Part 1 listed status under the EU Pet Travel Scheme.

The latest advice for pet owners seeking to travel to the EU after 1 January 2021 can be found here .

Further information

• Passengers should always check the rules of the country they are travelling to for any additional restrictions or requirements before they travel.
• For information on commercial imports and exports of dogs, cats and ferrets to the EU – please refer to the Border Operating Model
• There will be no changes or new requirements on movements from Northern Ireland to Great Britain.
• There will be no changes to the current health preparations or documents for pets entering Great Britain from the EU in the immediate term, as the disease risks remains unchanged.
• There are no restrictions on bringing pet rodents, rabbits, birds, invertebrates, amphibians and reptiles to the UK from EU countries.
• Contact the Centre for International Trade (Carlisle) for more information on the rules for travelling with other species of pet.

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Everything to Know About Flying With a Dog

By Matt Meltzer , Katherine LaGrave , and Sarah Kuta

If you’re a pet parent, you’ve probably spent more time than you’d care to admit fretting over what to do with your dog while you’re vacationing or traveling for work . Flying with a dog is one option, but it’s far from a straightforward decision.

Whether you’ve flown with your pup before or this is a first for both of you, the prospect of flying with a dog can be stressful and intimidating. What are the rules around flying with non-service pets? What does flying with a dog cost? Which breeds are allowed on planes? Can you take a dog on a plane, or will they be relegated to the cargo hold? What equipment do you need? And—most importantly—will flying be safe and comfortable for your pet?

There’s a lot to consider before traveling with a pet. However, with enough research (and some good conversations with your veterinarian) traveling with your dog is certainly possible.

We’ve rounded up everything you’ll want to consider ahead of time, from airline policies and paperwork to airport security procedures and more. Before you head to the airport , here’s what you need to know about flying with a dog.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Can I fly with a dog on a plane?

Can my dog fly with me? Yes, in many cases, your dog can fly with you on a plane, either in the cabin or the cargo hold. However, as you might imagine, airlines have tons of specific guidelines for travelers with pets to read up on. It’s important that you understand them all thoroughly, well in advance of your trip, so you know exactly what to expect and can prepare for how to fly with a dog ahead of time.

First, you’ll need to check with your airline to see what type of breeds they allow in the cabin or the cargo hold. Often, certain types of dog breeds are barred from flying in one place or another. For instance, brachycephalic dog breeds with short or snubbed noses (like French bulldogs and pugs) usually can’t fly in the cargo hold because of the potential for breathing issues. Most larger dogs aren’t allowed in the cabin (with exceptions for trained service animals) and will have to fly in the cargo hold. Many airlines have completely banned specific breeds—like pit bulls—from flying at all.

Always book flight reservations for you and your pet at the same time: Most airlines only allow a handful of pets per flight—typically two to six, depending on the type of plane and whether it is a domestic or international flight . Be sure to call and make sure there’s still room for your pet. You might also have limited seating options when flying with a dog. Airlines usually do not allow passengers flying with dogs to sit in bulkhead rows, business or first-class cabins with lie-flat beds, or emergency exit rows.

Beyond commercial flights, you also have the option of booking a private (or semi-private) flight with your dog. In recent years, a handful of new dog-friendly airlines have popped up, including Bark Air and K9 Jets , which offer pay-per-seat private jet service for pups and their humans. In addition, some private jet companies, like NetJets and VistaJet , will gladly roll out the red carpet for pets. Flying private is more expensive, and your carbon footprint will be bigger in most cases, but you may decide that it's necessary for your pet’s comfort.

How stressful is flying for dogs?

Flying can be uncomfortable for all dogs, but it’s especially hard on elderly dogs, as well as pups with health or behavioral issues.

For your pet, airports and airplanes mean loud noises, bright lights, thousands of people, a dizzying array of new smells, changes in air pressure and cabin temperature, and limited bathroom breaks. Dogs who must fly in the cargo hold are also separated from you, their favorite person in the world, in a scary, unfamiliar environment for several hours. “Always consider the pet’s perspective—what might be an exciting trip for you can be a stressful experience for them,” says LaDell Carter, a travel advisor who specializes in pet-friendly trips and the founder of Royal Expression Travels .

Driving to your destination is another option. But road-tripping is only viable if you have enough time to get there and back—and, just as importantly, if your dog doesn’t mind being in the car. (Some pups absolutely love car rides, but others get car sick or anxious.)

Beyond these considerations, think about whether your dog will even be able to participate in all the activities you have planned once you arrive. Is your lodging pet-friendly? Will the destination be too hot or too cold for them to spend time outdoors comfortably? Can you take them to restaurants, bars, and shops? If your pup will spend the entire trip locked inside a hotel room anyway, subjecting them to the misery of a flight probably isn’t worth it.

Bottom line: Unless you have a really solid reason for bringing them with you, it’s probably best to leave your pooch at home. As a pet parent, it’s your responsibility to do what’s best for your pup, even when that decision might make you feel blue for a few days. Hire a dog-sitter, ask a trusted friend or family member to look after them, or book a stay in a reputable boarding facility. “There are very few pros to flying with a dog,” says Jennifer Bruns, a veterinarian at PetSmart . “Bringing your pup on a flight is only recommended if it is absolutely necessary.”

And if you do decide to go ahead with flying with a dog, make an appointment with your veterinarian to discuss food, water, exercise, medication, and other helpful strategies well in advance of the trip. Experts are split on whether pets should be sedated before flights (even the American Veterinary Medical Association offers a slightly murky answer to this question), so weigh the pros and cons with a vet who is familiar with your animal specifically. Also keep in mind that there are health risks involved with sedation, and some airlines prohibit this practice or require a veterinarian’s note.

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To minimize your pet’s distress, look for non-stop flights with no transfers, and avoid traveling over holiday periods when airlines—and airports—are busier than normal, to help reduce the risk of anything going wrong.

If your pet has to fly in cargo, also be mindful of the weather at your destination. For trips to warm-weather locales, look into early morning or late evening flights when the temperatures won’t be quite so hot; conversely, in cooler climates, book flights in the middle of the day, when temps are warmest. Also note that some airlines, including Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines , have strict rules about dogs flying in the cargo hold based on outdoor temperatures along the route. If it’s too hot or too cold, they may not accept your pet—and you’ll be left scrambling to make alternate arrangements.

Can I buy my dog a seat on a plane?

Most airlines do not allow passengers to buy their dogs a seat on a plane. However, depending on the dog’s size and breed, as well as the specific airline’s rules, you may be able to pay to have your dog fly with you in the cabin.

Usually, only allow small dogs are allowed to fly in the cabin. Some outline specific weight limits, but most simply require carry-on pets to fit comfortably in a soft-sided carrier that can go under the seat in front of you. The carrier must remain under the seat for the entire flight—you can’t get your pup out for snuggles mid-journey, unless you want a stern talking-to from a flight attendant. The pet carrier counts as either your personal item or carry-on bag, and it must be roomy enough for your pup to be able to stand up and turn around when it’s zipped shut.

A small number of airlines, including JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Etihad Airways, allow passengers flying with dogs to buy an extra seat for their pet. Dogs must still fly in a carrier and fit under the seat to be stowed for taxi, takeoff, and landing (on Etihad, carriers can take up more space if being used with an additional seat); outside of those flight phases, passengers are generally allowed to put the dog carrier on their lap or in the seat next to them that they purchased.

Unfortunately, larger pet dogs have to fly in the cargo hold, along with all the luggage and freight. Most airlines describe this as “shipping” your pet. (Yikes.)

While airlines say they try their best to make dogs comfortable in the cargo hold, it’s bound to be an unpleasant experience for your pet nonetheless. Plenty of animals fly in cargo every year without incident, but travelers have also shared horror stories about their pets being injured, becoming very sick, or even dying.

If you’re curious about the risk, here are some statistics to consider: According to the U.S. Department of Transportation , 188,223 animals flew on U.S. airlines in 2022 (the newest data available). Among those, seven animals died, one was lost and one was injured, which translates to an overall incident rate of 0.48 per 10,000. That’s low to be sure, but if your pet was one of those unlucky few, how might you feel?

Additionally, once you check in your dog for the flight, they are entirely in the hands of airline personnel. Your dog will be loaded by baggage handlers who are trying to get all of the luggage and other items into the cargo hold quickly and efficiently. Although they may adore pets, it’s not their job to comfort, pet, walk, or otherwise pay special attention to your dog.

So, do the benefits of “shipping” your dog in the cargo hold outweigh the downsides? The answer to that question depends on your situation, your dog, and your tolerance for risk. “There are many situations that are beyond your control when your pet flies in cargo,” says Bruns. “Putting your dog in cargo, even on a pet-friendly airline, can be a very risky situation.”

What are the rules for flying with a dog?

The rules for traveling with dogs vary widely based on the airline, where you’re traveling, and what type of dog you have. Always do research in advance of every trip—even if it’s not your first time flying with a dog—to ensure you have all of the latest information and regulations.

“One common misconception is that all airlines have uniform policies regarding pet travel,” says Carter. “In reality, policies can differ greatly between airlines and even between international and domestic flights. Knowing these details upfront ensures a smoother booking process and helps set realistic expectations for the journey.”

Look at airlines’ websites carefully to be sure you’re reading all the correct information you need. You can also try calling an airline customer service line to get more detail on their specific rules. Here are the pet travel pages for Delta , American Airlines , United , JetBlue , Southwest , and Alaska Airways . (If your dog is a trained service animal, then a totally different set of regulations will apply.)

Airlines typically require a health certificate —issued by an accredited veterinarian following an office visit that includes a physical examination—stating your dog is healthy and up-to-date on her vaccinations. The certificate is only good for 30 days, and you’ll need it for both your departure and return. (Many airlines require that your dog's clean bill of health be no more than 10 days old.) If the duration of your trip is longer than your certificate will be valid for, you’ll also have to schedule a vet visit while on your trip to meet the return flight requirements. Dogs must also typically be at least eight weeks old to fly, says Bruns.

You’ll typically pay between $95 to $125 each way for your pet to fly in the cabin with you, though the pet fee varies by airline. The cost of shipping your pet in the cargo hold depends on the combined weight of your dog and their crate, as well as how far they’ll be flying—most airlines offer online calculators for getting an estimate.

Wherever your pet will spend the flight, airlines typically require an appropriate pet carrier or crate. The International Air Transport Association, whose guidelines most airlines follow, has a list of pet carrier requirements (we've also rounded up our favorite airline-approved pet carriers) . Generally speaking, the crate needs to be durable and have plenty of ventilation, strong handles, and a leak-proof bottom.

Clearly mark the pet carrier with the words “Live Animal” and arrows that show which way is up, with a label containing your name, phone number, address, and destination contact information. Also, double-check the zippers or other closure mechanisms, even if you’ve flown with this specific carrier in the past. “You don’t want to be TikTok famous when your pet escapes on the airplane,” says Philippa Pavia, a veterinary surgeon and vice president of medical operations for Thrive Pet Healthcare who often flies with her Chihuahua mix, Pierre.

Another important thing to research? Local animal import laws for each airport you’ll be stopping at along the way. This is especially important if you’re traveling internationally or somewhere like Hawaii , which has strict customs rules. Many places have painfully complicated processes and long quarantine periods—which could mean you'd be separated from your pet for most or all of your trip.

Some destinations do not allow pets to fly in the cabin, even if your dog is small enough to be a carry-on; there are even some countries and states that prohibit pets from flying to, from, or through on a connection, period. Others have specific requirements that may take a while to coordinate, so it’s best to start your trip-planning process extra early if you want to bring your dog. “Some countries require testing and treatment for disease months in advance of travel, so timing is of the utmost importance,” says Bruns.

Also note there are special requirements for dogs traveling to the US from a country the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) deems high risk for rabies . For example, dogs that have been vaccinated against rabies in the US by a US-licensed veterinarian may return from a high-risk country if they have proof of rabies vaccination and a microchip; are at least six months old; are healthy upon arrival; and arrive at one of 18 specific airports with CDC quarantine facilities. These rules are slated to change on Aug. 1, however, so bookmark the CDC’s webpage for the latest requirements. The CDC also has an interactive question-and-answer tool, called DogBot, that can help you determine which specific rules apply to your pup.

Before your trip, thoroughly research the departing and arrival airports, paying close attention to any pet relief areas. If your pet isn’t crate-trained or you’ve purchased a new travel carrier, spend time training or familiarizing your pup with the kennel well in advance of your trip. You might even consider taking your dog to the airport’s departure area a few times so they become slightly more comfortable with this strange place. “Every time I fly with my dog, I look at the terminal map—both the one I'm leaving from and the one I'm landing at—to see if there is a pet relief area,” says Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer with Rover . “This way, if my flight is delayed, I can give him another chance to go. And as soon as we land, I know where to head.”

Flying with a dog: Day-of travel

On travel day, follow the action plan you created with your vet for food, water, and exercise. “I recommend feeding a small, easily digestible meal a few hours prior to the flight and decreasing water consumption,” says Pavia. “I also recommend exercising your pet before going to the airport so they’re ready for a nap.”

When it’s time to head to the airport, be sure to arrive extra early so you don’t feel rushed or frazzled. If your pet is flying cargo, most airlines require you to arrive at least three hours before departure for domestic flights and at least five hours before international flights. You’ll likely need to take your pet to a separate cargo drop-off location at the airport. These are usually special hangars on the outskirts of the airport property, and your airline should have a list of locations and hours. This is also where you’ll pick up your pet after the flight, too, so review your departure and arrival airport maps ahead of time to know where to go.

If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, go to the passenger check-in desk, where an agent will ask to see your dog’s required paperwork. Once you’ve got the all-clear and paid the pet carry-on fee, head to security. Deal with your shoes, liquids, laptop, and other items before tending to your dog. Then, remove your dog from the kennel and place the carrier on the conveyor belt to go through the X-ray machine. When it’s your turn to go through the metal detector, TSA says to carry or walk your dog through. You’ll need to remove your dog’s collar or leash if any part of it is metal, to avoid setting off the alarm. “If your pet could escape, you should have a collar and leash that can remain on them through the metal detector,” says Pavia.

You’ll also want to read up on the TSA’s rules around dog food , especially if you want to bring a little wet food in your carry-on bag. The agency considers both dry and moist dog food as solid food, which means they’re both allowed in carry-on bags. As with all food items , however, a security officer may ask you to remove the food from your bag to get a clearer picture of the other contents in your carry-on.

If the dog is flying as cargo, make sure to attach a current photo of her to the outside of the carrier, as well as a small bag of food so airline personnel can feed it in case of a long delay . Keep a current photo of your dog handy on your phone, too, in case the airline accidentally misplaces your pet—it's not likely, but it’s better to be prepared. (Getting your pet microchipped can also help in the event that your pet gets lost.) Once you touch down at your destination, grab your checked baggage (or, to speed things up while traveling with dogs, only bring a carry-on ) and head straight to the airline’s cargo location.

Dogs who fly cargo are typically available two hours after the flight’s arrival. You must pick them up within four hours of arrival, or airline staffers will take them to a veterinarian or boarding facility.

Whether your pet flew in cargo or the cabin, take your pup for a walk right away and be sure to give her lots of praise, cuddles, treats, toys, or whatever other positive reinforcement rewards they prefer. (If you're flying with a dog in the cabin and have a layover, stretch your legs—and your pup's—at a pet relief area in the airport.) Though the journey can be complicated, you'll breathe easier once you've both arrived safe and sound.

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Demi Moore on Full Frontal Nudity With Margaret Qualley in ‘The Substance’: ‘A Very Vulnerable Experience’ but I Had a ‘Great Partner Who I Felt Very Safe With’

Demi Moore ‘s new film, the feminist body horror “ The Substance ,” sees her bare it all, with several scenes featuring full nudity. At the Cannes Film Festival press conference for the film on Monday, the 61-year-old actor discussed the “vulnerable experience.”

“Going into it, it was really spelled out — the level of vulnerability and rawness that was really required to tell the story,” Moore said. “And it was a very vulnerable experience and just required a lot of sensitivity and a lot of conversation about what we were trying to accomplish.”

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“I had someone who was a great partner who I felt very safe with. We obviously were quite close  — naked — and we also got a lot of levity in those moments at how absurd those certain situations were,” she said. “But ultimately. it’s just about really directing your communication and mutual trust.”

As the film progresses, Moore becomes horribly disfigured thanks to the abuse her other half Qualley is inflicting on her. By the film’s last act, she quite resembles Anjelica Huston from the 1990 film “The Witches,” after she transforms into a humpback abomination.

Dennis Quaid also stars in the film as an “asshole,” as he described his character during the presser. The late Ray Liotta was meant to have the role before his passing in May 2022, and Quaid dedicated his performance to him.

“In my heart, I dedicated this role to Ray Liotta, who was set to play it,” Quaid said. “It was this week, two years ago that he passed, so I’d like to remember him. He was such an incredible actor.”

Cannes went wild for “The Substance” at its premiere on Sunday night, giving the film an 11-minute standing ovation , the longest of the fest so far.

In an interview with Variety , the French director discussed the film’s feminist themes, saying that body horror is “the perfect vehicle to express the violence all these women’s issues are about.”

With an undercurrent of #MeToo at this year’s festival as the movement grows in France, Fargeat hopes the film will shine even more light on the issue. “It’s a little stone in the huge wall we still have to build regarding this issue, and to be honest, I hope my film will also be one of the stones of that wall. That’s really what I intended to do with it.”

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Gatwick Airport terminal evacuated with fears of ‘inevitable’ flight delays

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London Gatwick’s South Terminal has been evacuated causing travel chaos for passengers departing from the airport.

People were told to leave due to a ‘fire alarm’ this morning and this is expected to cause flight delays today.

The evacuation may also impact train services running to and from the airport and the shuttle service to the North Terminal.

Passengers on social media have reported chaotic scenes at the terminal and say staff are ‘clueless’.

Ryan Amstad wrote on X: ‘A fire alarm at Gatwick Airport and staff are as clueless as guests as to the procedures on how to safely exit. No fire marshalls, signage pointing the wrong way. Eventually found a way out. Awful.’

Meanwhile Annie Smith posted: ‘Fire alarm at Gatwick airport. Sounds like everyone past security has been evacuated onto the tarmac, & before security crazy lines.’

Kevin Edger said: ‘Was all very sudden and chaotic for a while. People running around everywhere and very confused. Never experienced a big evacuation at Gatwick Airport before, don’t want to again.’

The airport posted on X: ‘Our dedicated Airport Fire Service swiftly attended and confirmed there was no fire.

Incredible. A fire alarm at @Gatwick_Airport and staff are as clueless as guests as to the procedures on how to safely exit. No fire Marshalls, signage pointing the wrong way. Eventually found a way out. Awful. pic.twitter.com/DfNx2Cs4nq — Ryan Amstad (@ryanamstad) May 9, 2024

Fire alarm at Gatwick airport. Sounds like everyone past security has been evacuated onto tarmac, & before security crazy lines! #airport #london — Annie Smith (@smithannie_) May 9, 2024

@Gatwick_Airport fire alarm sounded and whole terminal evacuated! Any idea what’s going on? pic.twitter.com/d4lH3JdgtT — Ellie (@eotphonehome) May 9, 2024

Was all very sudden and chaotic for a while. People running around everywhere and very confused. Never experienced a big evacuation at Gatwick Airport before, don’t want to again! pic.twitter.com/SkKEYlM9jQ — Kevin Edger (@KEdge23) May 9, 2024

‘Passengers are being allowed back into the Departure Lounge.’

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One video shows passengers slowly moving out as a fire alarm sounds in the background.

Despite people being allowed back into the terminal, authorities have warned people to check the status of their flight before travelling to the airport.

Travel agency Clarity posted: ‘Clarity advises travellers flying to from or through London Gatwick Airport to confirm their flight status in advance of departure and allow additional time for processing through the airport.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at [email protected] .

For more stories like this, check our news page .

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Money blog: Major lender cuts mortgage rates; Spanish cities announce plans to end Airbnbs

Welcome to the Money blog, your place for personal finance and consumer news and advice. Let us know your thoughts on any of the topics we're covering using the comments box below.

Monday 24 June 2024 19:54, UK

• Barclays reducing fixed rate deals - and more lenders could follow
• Barcelona to ban all holiday apartment rentals by 2028
• Princess Diana's family home goes on sale - it'll cost you £10.95m
• What are your rights if your flight is cancelled?

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Taylor Swift fans have taken to social media to complain at paying hundreds on tickets for her Wembley shows only to end up with a restricted view. 

While the reviews of the show have been glowing, many were less than impressed with ticket sellers failing to say whether certain seats had "restricted" views - which usually makes a ticket a bit cheaper. 

One said...

Another fumed at the blocked view despite the £200 price...

It comes after a fan who saw Swift in Glasgow at the start of the month complained after parting with £680 only to have "a lovely view of a tent"...

Betting tips scrapped on flagship BBC show

BBC Radio 4's Today programme has scrapped its daily horse race betting tips, its host has announced.

Amol Rajan said the "break in tradition" would not affect major race days, with the broadcaster still set to offer tips for the biggest events in the calendar. 

"We will very much continue to cover horse racing, as we do so many other sports, not least through interviews with leading lights in the racing world," Mr Rajan said.

"And we will sometimes continue to broadcast from the big ticket events like the Grand National festival, or Cheltenham Gold Cup week."

Want to earn triple Nectar points?

Sainsbury's is offering the incentive for customers with electric vehicles who choose to charge up with them via their new "Smart Charge" bays. 

From today until 31 August, Sainsbury's customers can collect 3x Nectar points on Smart Charge transactions when they add their Nectar account number before purchase.

To do so, customers need to scan the QR code on the Smart Charge charging unit after they pay and add their Nectar card number on the web page provided. Points will be added to customers' accounts once they have paid.

Getir shareholders back break-up of food delivery group

Investors in Getir, the food delivery group that is abandoning its UK operations, have approved a break-up of the company that will trigger a fresh capital injection of up to $250m (£197.5m).

Sky News has learnt that Getir, which is based in Turkey, held an extraordinary general meeting yesterday at which shareholders backed plans to split it into two independent companies.

Read more of our city editor Mark Kleinman 's exclusive here ... 

Restaurants, cafes and hotels have been told to immediately withdraw meat products dubbed "unsafe" by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

Hospitality operators in London and South East England were issued the food safety alert for meat supplied by a cutting plant in Swanley, Kent.

"We have alerted Environmental Health, Trading Standards Services and Official Veterinarians to take action to remove meat and meat products manufactured by Block and Cleaver from the market," the FSA said in a statement.

"These products... may not have been produced in accordance with GB food law requirements and therefore may be unsafe."

These products may have incorrect use by dates, are subject to traceability breaches and should not be eaten as they were not prepared in line with food safety and hygiene legislative requirements. 

All of the following products should be withdrawn immediately:

Over the weekend, hundreds of flights from Manchester Airport were cancelled due to a major power cut. 

Passengers flying from Terminals 1 and 2 were told not to go to the airport, while those already inside faced huge delays.

Flights finally started departing this morning, but what are your rights if yours has been cancelled? 

Watch: Travel disruption after Manchester Airport power cut

Here's what you need to know

Your flight is covered by UK law if it departs from a UK airport, arrives at a UK airport on a UK or EU airline, or arrives at an EU airport on a UK airline.

Under UK law, if your flight is cancelled, the airline must either give you a refund or book you on an alternative flight - either with them or a rival airline.

It is up to you whether you still want to travel at that time - or reschedule your holiday for a later date.

If another airline is flying "significantly sooner" than yours is able to offer, you may have the right to be booked onto a rival flight, but this has to be negotiated with the company.

What are the airline's policies?

As well as being covered under UK aviation law, each airline has its own cancellation policy for customers.

EasyJet allows customers to either switch to another flight for free, choose a voucher for the full value of the booking, or request a refund.

Ryanair passengers can either claim a full refund or change to an alternative flight, while TUI passengers with cancelled flights should receive a full refund within 14 days - and you may also be entitled to compensation.

British Airways passengers are offered a full refund, while Wizz Air allows passengers to request a refund or rebook onto the next available flight.

If you have booked through a tour operator or travel agent, they will have their own policies.

What if you've booked a package holiday?

If your flight is cancelled, and you've booked a package holiday, you have the same rights as any other passenger, according to trade association ABTA. 

You also have additional rights regarding the rest of your holiday.

Typically, your travel company will contact you in advance to re-arrange your flights. 

But, if you're at the airport when the flight is cancelled, you should contact your travel company to talk through your options, ABTA said. 

If your flight can't be rearranged and your holiday has to be cancelled, or new arrangements are made that result in a significant change to your holiday, then the travel company must offer an alternative holiday if they can. 

If not, they must offer a refund of the full package price, not just the flight part.

Generally, a change of more than 12 hours on a 14-night holiday is considered a significant change. 

Barclays has announced rate reductions across a number of its mortgage deals, with brokers suggesting more lenders could follow suit in the coming days. 

The high street bank said the new rates will be available from tomorrow. 

Here are some of the deals:

• Two-year fixed deal with 90% LTV and no product fee will go from 5.76% to 5.48%
• Two-year fixed deal with 60% LTV and no product fee will be reduced from 5.13% to 4.88%
• Five-year fixed deal with 90% and a £999 product fee will decrease from 4.90% to 4.85%

Broker and director of R3 Mortgages Riz Malik said borrowers should expect further reductions from other high street lender this week thanks to improving market pricing. 

"Barclays is the first lender of the week to improve selected mortgage products but my suspicion is that it won't be the last," he told Newspage. 

Simon Bridgland, director at Release Freedom, said the deals were "sizzling hot" - and he thinks more lenders will follow this week. 

"Things look set to heat up not just in our skies but in mortgage rates, too. Expect more lower fixed rates to continue to appear in the days ahead," he added. 

Justin Moy, managing director at EHF Mortgages, said the positive move was thanks to Barclays passing on swap rate improvements to customers. 

Edit : A couple of hours after Barclays' move, MPowered Mortgages also announced cuts across its product range.

If you're wondering what swap rates are, you can read our explainer here...

Barcelona will ban holiday apartment rentals by 2028 in a drastic move to tackle soaring housing costs. 

Mayor Jaume Collboni said he will scrap the licences of the 10,101 flats currently approved for short-term rentals, and the properties will go on the market for residents to rent or buy. 

"We are confronting what we believe is Barcelona's largest problem," he said.

The boom in short-term rentals in Spain's most visited city has caused rents to rise by 68% and house prices to increase by 28% in the past 10 years, Mr Collboni added. 

While the move aims to help locals, hotels could also stand to benefit.

The opening of new hotels in the city's most popular areas was banned by a far-left party governing Barcelona between 2015 and 2023, but Mr Collboni has signalled he could relax the restriction. 

The move comes after Madrid announced an immediate ban on new holiday rentals in a bid to tackle over-tourism 

The Spanish capital decided to stop granting holiday rental licences temporarily, with the suspension expected to last until 2025.

Similar restrictions have already been enforced across the Canary Islands, Lisbon and Berlin.

Princess Diana's family home has gone on the market for the first time in 22 years - but interested buyers should note it comes with a £10.95m price tag. 

The four-story property in Mayfair, London, has a reception hall, a drawing room, a library, two bedroom suits with walk-in wardrobes and ensuite bathrooms, and private underground parking. 

If you're worried about the stairs inside such a tall house, don't be -  it also comes with a lift connecting all levels. 

The top floor is a self-contained suite, with a bedroom, sitting room, terrace, dressing room and bathroom. 

There's also two bedrooms on the lower ground floor, accompanied by two bathrooms, another dressing room and a kitchen. 

The house is where Princess Diana was first introduced to the al Fayed family at a lunch party in 1996. 

Her stepmother, Raine Spencer, had encouraged her to get to know the family, including Dodi al Fayed, who she had a brief relationship with until they died in a car crash in Paris in 1997. 

Mrs Spencer was at 24 Farm Street when she was told about Diana's death. 

Since the early 2000s, the house has belonged to the founders of Pyms Gallery in Mayfair, Alan and Mary Hobart. 

But after Mr Hobart's death in 2021 and Mrs Hobart's death earlier this year, it is now being sold on the instructions of their executors. 

"With its aristocratic and royal connections, we anticipate significant interest in this house from discerning buyers around the world. It is a trophy home with an illustrious history," said Danish Arif, head of Mayfair sales at estate agents Chestertons.

By James Sillars , business news reporter  

Let's start the new week by looking at the prospects for oil prices.

They're up by around 14% since 4 June - by 3% since last week alone - and standing at levels last seen in April.

It has left Brent crude at $85 a barrel.

If sustained, this level could prompt small rises at the fuel pumps in the coming weeks. 

The outlook for Brent is currently coloured by a multitude of factors.

In support is the wealth of global hostilities, such as the war in Ukraine and the conflict between Israel and Hamas. 

Worries about demand, particularly in China, are providing some kind of check.

We'll have a clearer idea of the path for oil later this week, with analysts noting that it could go either way.

The FTSE 100 is starting the week on the back foot after a 0.4% decline on Friday.

It is trading at 8,234 - down three points.

Some of the negative sentiment has been linked to continuing worries about a delayed US interest rate cut and the snap parliamentary election in France.

The latest polls give the National Rally party of Marine Le Pen a clear lead ahead of the first round of voting on Sunday.

Upwards pressure on the FTSE is coming from consumer-facing stocks amid evidence that spending is picking up after a spring dominated by foul weather.

Typical first-time buyers are paying around £400 more per month for their mortgage than five years ago, Rightmove has found. 

The average mortgage payment for those who have just stepped on the property ladder has risen by 61% since 2019, from £667 to £1,075 per month. 

The property website calculated the monthly amount based on first-time buyers having a 20% deposit, a 25-year mortgage term and five-year fixed deal at an average rate, which by its calculation is currently about 5.04%.

Asking prices for a typical first home, with two bedrooms or fewer, has also increased to £227,757 - 19% more than 2019. 

The North West had seen the biggest jump at 33% since 2019, while London has seen the smallest percentage rise of just 6%, Rightmove found. 

"As rates have increased over the last five years, the amount that a typical first-time buyer is paying each month on a mortgage has outstripped the pace of earning growth," said Tim Bannister, Rightmove's property expert. 

"Some first-time buyers are looking at extending their mortgage terms to 30 or 35 years to lower monthly payments, or looking at cheaper homes for sale so that they need to borrow less." 

Our Money team reporter Katie Williams  explored this issue last week. You can read her piece below...

Amazon is planning a major revamp of its loss-making Alexa - but the new tech could come with a monthly fee. 

Dubbed "Remarkable Alexa", according to insider sources, the updated device would use conversational artificial intelligence technology.

The tech upgrade would mean the speaker could order you a takeaway from Uber Eats, write an email and perform other more complex tasks. 

It could also eliminate the need to repeatedly say "Alexa" during a conversation, offering more personalisation, the sources told Reuters. 

But a more powerful Alexa could mean people will have to pay a $5 (£3) monthly fee to access it. 

The sources said there was currently no plan to introduce the service as part of the Prime membership, which customers already have to pay for. 

Amazon's chief executive, Andy Jassy, has taken a personal interest in seeing Alexa revamped, promising a more "intelligent and capable" device to shareholders back in April. 

An update may also be critical for Amazon to keep up with rivals such as Google, Microsoft and OpenAI, which have all seen a positive reaction from their recently released AI chatbots. 

However, the sources cautioned the plans for Alexa, including price and release date, could be altered or cancelled altogether.

That wouldn't be unusual. Amazon has been plagued by false starts in developing AI. 

The company had reportedly been working on several devices last year, such as Alexa-enabled home energy consumption trackers and a carbon monoxide detector, which still haven't come to market.

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