All You Need To Know About Pet Traveling to United Kingdom
Bringing your pet to the United Kingdom may initially seem challenging, with complex regulations, medical checks, and paperwork. However, armed with the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate this process smoothly, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for your four-legged companion.
How to Bring Pets to Great Britain?
If you are considering bringing your pet to Great Britain, follow this step-by-step guide for a hassle-free journey.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before bringing your pet, ensure eligibility. Certain dog breeds, such as Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro, are prohibited. Cats, ferrets, and rabbits face no restrictions, but it’s wise to check the government’s website for updates on restrictions and banned animals.
Step 2: Microchipping
All pets entering Great Britain must have a microchip meeting ISO standards for easy scanning. If your pet lacks a microchip, a certified veterinarian in your home country must implant one to guarantee proper identification and maintain high pet care standards.
Step 3: Rabies Vaccination
After getting microchipped, your pet must be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccine should be administered after the microchip has been inserted and at least 21 days before the planned travel date. If your pet is not vaccinated within this timeframe, it will not be allowed to enter Great Britain.
Step 4: UK Pet Passport
Apply for a UK pet passport from an official veterinarian in your home country after microchipping and vaccination. The passport contains crucial information about your pet’s identification, vaccinations, and medical history.
Step 5: Official Health Certificate
A valid health certificate, issued by a certified veterinarian in your home country, confirming your pet’s health and fitness for travel, is mandatory. It should include details of the microchip number, rabies vaccination, and any other required vaccinations.
Step 6: Plan the Travel Route
Once you have completed all the necessary steps, it’s time to plan your pet’s journey. You can bring your pet to Great Britain via air, sea, or rail. Make sure to check with the specific airline, ferry company, or train operator for their rules and regulations regarding traveling with pets.
Step 7: Traveling as Manifest Cargo
Pets cannot travel in the cabin unless specified as manifest cargo. Make necessary arrangements with the airline or ferry company beforehand.
Step 8: Prepare for arrival
Before arriving in Great Britain, make sure to prepare everything your pet will need. This includes a comfortable carrier that meets the airline’s requirements, a leash, food and water bowls, enough food for the journey, and any necessary medication. It is also advisable to have your pet’s favorite toys or blankets with them to help alleviate stress during travel.
Step 9: Completing Customs upon Arrival
Upon arriving in Great Britain, you will need to complete customs formalities before your pet can enter. This includes presenting all the necessary documents, including the pet passport and health certificate. An official veterinarian may also examine your pet to ensure it meets the UK’s health requirements.
Step 10: Register your pet with a local veterinarian
After completing customs, it is essential to register your pet with a local veterinarian in Great Britain. They will be able to provide you with any additional vaccinations or treatments your pet may need and ensure their continued health in their new home.
If you any help or have any questions about bringing your pet to Great Britain, it is always best to consult with us as we have a team of experts who can guide you through this process and make sure your pet has a smooth transition into their new home. So, don’t let the regulations and paperwork discourage you from bringing your beloved furry friend to Great Britain – with the right knowledge and preparation, it can be a stress-free experience for both you and your pet.