How to bring your pet to the UK

Planning an international move is complex enough. Add a furry family member into the mix, and things can get even trickier. For pet owners relocating to the UK, one of the most surprising discoveries is this:

Pets are not allowed in the cabin on flights into the UK (with the exception of registered assistance dogs).

So how do you get your beloved pet safely to Britain? There are several routes, each with its own paperwork, cost, and comfort levels. Here’s a breakdown of the main options — and what you need to know to prepare.

How to bring your pet to the UK: the options (and the reality)

1. Flying your pet in the aircraft hold (most common option)

This is the most widely used method, but it’s not as simple as booking an extra ticket.

How it works:

• Pets travel in the cargo hold on approved pet-friendly airlines.

• You can complete the paperwork yourself — including microchipping, vaccinations, and obtaining the required Animal Health Certificate — but it must be done correctly and within precise timeframes.

• Some owners choose to use a pet transport company to help manage logistics and avoid common pitfalls (especially with customs clearance and airline procedures).
• Your pet must arrive at one of the UK’s designated animal reception centres (e.g. Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester).

What you’ll need:

• A compliant microchip

• Up-to-date rabies vaccination

• An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) or valid EU Pet Passport (if applicable)

• Tapeworm treatment (for dogs)

• An airline-approved crate and IATA-compliant travel setup

• Time for pre-arrival paperwork and approvals

💡 Tip: Book early, work with a pet relocation specialist if possible, and prepare your pet gradually for crate travel.

2. Fly to Paris, then use a Pet Taxi to the UK

This increasingly popular workaround avoids flying your pet directly into the UK.

How it works:

• You and your pet fly together to Paris Charles de Gaulle, where in-cabin pet travel is often allowed.
• From there, you take a pet taxi service through the Channel Tunnel (pets are allowed on the Eurotunnel, but not on the Eurostar).
• Some services pick you up at the airport and drop you at your UK destination.

Why people choose it:

• Your pet can stay with you in the cabin on the flight (if under airline size limits).

• It’s generally less stressful than cargo travel and allows a more gradual journey.

🚕 Note: Pet taxi services must be DEFRA-registered. Book well in advance – they fill up quickly.

3. Driving to the UK

If you’re up for a road trip, driving your pet to the UK via the Channel Tunnel is a straightforward (if lengthy) option.

How it works:

• Travel through Europe and take the Eurotunnel from Calais to Folkestone.

• Your pet stays with you in the car the entire time.

• You’ll still need all pet import paperwork, but you avoid air travel stress.

🚗 This option gives you flexibility and more control — but it takes time and planning, especially with hotel stays along the way.

4. Hiring a Private Jet (yes, really)

Believe it or not, some pet owners (especially those with multiple pets or large breeds) choose to fly privately, and some companies offer shared flights for pet owners.

Pros:

• Your pet travels with you in the cabin.

• You avoid cargo or quarantine issues.

Cons:

• Extremely expensive: even shared flights can cost thousands of pounds/dollars.

• Limited availability and booking complexity.

🛩️ Definitely a luxury option, but it’s out there.

5. Boat Cruises (wishful thinking, mostly)

Wouldn’t it be nice to sail into the UK with your pet, wind in your fur? Unfortunately, this is not a realistic option.

• Most passenger ships do not allow pets, or they have strict rules requiring animals to be kept in kennels, not with owners.

• The Queen Mary 2 is one exception (with kennels and pet services), but it sails from New York to Southampton infrequently and books up far in advance.

🛳️ It’s possible, but rare — and may not be worth the effort unless you’re planning a leisurely transatlantic adventure.

A note on Assistance Dogs

The only pets allowed in the cabin on UK flights are officially trained and registered assistance dogs. They must be declared in advance and meet specific documentation and behaviour requirements.

Final Thoughts

Getting your pet to the UK takes preparation, paperwork, and careful logistics, but it’s very doable. Whether you choose to fly direct, take the scenic route through France, or explore other creative options, the key is to plan early.

At Simply London, we can connect you with trusted pet relocation services, guide you through the documentation maze, and help ensure your move is as stress-free as possible, for both you and your four-legged companion. Get in touch today!