Extra Crate Space
These breeds require 10% more space for better airflow to keep them comfortable.
United Kingdom
Pet Relocation United Kingdom
United Kingdom is a pet-friendly haven, with abundant parks, pet-friendly cafes, and accommodations, especially in cities like London and Edinburgh. Pet services, including grooming and daycare, thrive in urban areas, and advanced veterinary hospitals provide excellent care, from routine visits to specialized treatments.
Relocating pets requires compliance with strict DEFRA rules, including health certificates, rabies vaccinations (21 days to 6 months prior), microchipping, and an EU Pet Passport or import permit for non-EU countries. Pets from approved countries can avoid quarantine if rules are met. Plan carefully for a smooth transition.
United Kingdom Pet Import Requirements
01
All pets must arrive as manifest cargo.
02
Animal is microchipped with ISO compatible microchip.
03
Rabies vaccination dated on or after the day the microchip was implanted. The vaccination must be given more than 30 days and less than 12 months before travel.
04
Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) must be carried out on a sample collected by an authorised veterinarian at least 30 days after the date of vaccination.
05
The test must be performed in an approved laboratory in the European Union (EU) or another OIE-approved laboratory.
06
The test must measure a level of neutralising antibody to rabies virus in serum equal to or greater than 0.5 IU/ml.
07
The pet must wait 90 days (starting from the day when the pet’s blood is taken) before entry into the UK is permitted.
08
The cat/dog will require evidence of the FVRCP/DHPPi+L vaccine prior to entry into the UK. The vaccine must be given no less than 30 days and no more than 12 months before travel.
09
The owners must have a responsibility to travel with or allocate someone to travel with their pets +/-5 days either side of the pet’s arrival. Meaning you or the allocated person can travel 5 days before your pet’s arrival or 5 days after your pet’s arrival.
10
Each pet must be accompanied by a health certificate, endorsed by the Government Veterinary Authority, completed within 5 days before travel.
11
Each pet must receive internal and external parasite treatment within 5 days before travel.
12
You must apply for a TOR form to get a tax relief, otherwise, additional charges for importation will be applied.
13
Must go by cargo route, no checked baggage or cabin allowed.
01
All pets must arrive as manifest cargo.
02
Animal is microchipped with ISO compatible microchip.
03
Rabies vaccination dated on or after the day the microchip was implanted. The vaccination must be given more than 30 days and less than 12 months before travel.
04
Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) must be carried out on a sample collected by an authorised veterinarian at least 30 days after the date of vaccination.
05
The test must be performed in an approved laboratory in the European Union (EU) or another OIE-approved laboratory.
06
The test must measure a level of neutralising antibody to rabies virus in serum equal to or greater than 0.5 IU/ml.
07
The pet must wait 90 days (starting from the day when the pet’s blood is taken) before entry into the UK is permitted.
08
The cat/dog will require evidence of the FVRCP/DHPPi+L vaccine prior to entry into the UK. The vaccine must be given no less than 30 days and no more than 12 months before travel.
09
The owners must have a responsibility to travel with or allocate someone to travel with their pets +/-5 days either side of the pet’s arrival. Meaning you or the allocated person can travel 5 days before your pet’s arrival or 5 days after your pet’s arrival.
10
Each pet must be accompanied by a health certificate, endorsed by the Government Veterinary Authority, completed within 5 days before travel.
11
Each pet must receive internal and external parasite treatment within 5 days before travel.
12
You must apply for a TOR form to get a tax relief, otherwise, additional charges for importation will be applied.
13
Must go by cargo route, no checked baggage or cabin allowed.
Important Notes
We know all pet's are special - but for the extra-special snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds there are some specific requirements that can make navigating your adventure a little more challenging. Luckily we specialise in just these types of situations!
Temperature Control
These breeds can only fly under safe temperature conditions, often requiring cooler travel times or temperature-controlled aircraft areas.
Vet Check
We are the only IPATA Certified Veterinary Hospital in the region that can perform the BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) test.
Airline Selection
We can help you to choose carriers that accommodate these breeds, ensuring a safe journey.
IATA-Compliant Crates
- Size: Spacious enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
- Material: Fiberglass, metal, rigid plastics, welded wire mesh, solid wood or plywood (meeting IPPC standards) (There may be special requirements for certain breeds).
- Ventilation: Openings on all 4 sides to provide plenty of airflow.
- Rigid plastic containers must be securely bolted toether with metal nutes and bolts.
- Spacer bars to prevent other freight from blocking ventilation.
- Labeling: Clearly marked with “Live Animal” and your contact details.
FAQs
What is the minimum age for pets to enter the UK?
Is a blood test for rabies antibodies required?
Are tapeworm treatments required for pets entering the UK?
Are there specific crate requirements for transporting pets to the UK?
Can I bring multiple pets to the UK at once?
Can I transport my pet myself or do I need a professional service?
What should I do if my pet needs veterinary treatment upon arrival?
Pets must be at least 12 weeks old and have received rabies vaccination after microchipping.
A rabies antibody blood test is required only if the pet is arriving from a country not listed as rabies-free or with additional requirements.
Dogs must receive tapeworm treatment 1 to 5 days before entering the UK.
Crates must meet IATA standards: sturdy, well-ventilated, secure, and appropriate size for the pet.
Yes, but each pet must meet all entry requirements individually.
You can transport your pet yourself if you comply with all regulations, but professional pet relocation services can help manage the process.
Pets requiring treatment may be placed under veterinary supervision or quarantine until cleared.
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