How to Move to the UK with a Pet

Are you moving to the UK and worried about how you are going to bring your beloved pet with you?

You need not worry, bringing a pet to the UK isn’t that difficult, you just need to make sure you follow the rules set by the UK government and you shouldn’t have any problems.

We have listed out the main points that you need to know, below.

Please note that the following article covers Dogs, Cats and Ferrets. Other animals including Rabbits and rodents from non-EU countries require a compulsory 4-month quarantine.

There is a link to the UK Government website at the bottom of this article that will help you further.

Check which carrier allows to transport pets before you book

Not all carriers are allowed to transport pets, so make sure you check before you book to fly. Only AHVLA authorized carriers can transport pets into the UK and they also may want more documentation from your vet.

Also note that your pet must arrive within 5 days of you arriving in the UK.

Banned breeds list

There are some dog breeds that are banned in the UK and if you own one of these you will not be allowed to bring them to the country. 

These dogs are:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tose
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Braziliero

Pet Passports

If you are travelling from an EU country, you will need to obtain a Pet Passport. Make sure you read all documentation fully.

If you are bringing your pet from a non-EU country, you will need a Third Country Approved Veterinary Certificate. These certificates also detail other specific documents that you will be required to carry, so please make sure you read and understand them fully also.

Is your pet Microchipped?

To be able to bring your pet to the UK it will need to be microchipped. Your pet’s microchip number will need to be added to the Pet Passport or Third Country Approved Veterinary Certificate.

Rabies

Your pet must have a rabies vaccination after it has been microchipped. If you are from an EU or non-EU listed country, you are free to travel 21 days after the vaccination. Providing you keep up to date with boosters, you will be free to move in and out of the UK.

If you are from a non-listed country, you must give yourself a longer period of time to complete all tests and vaccinations before you travel. You will need to wait 30 days after the rabies vaccination for your pet to then have a blood test. A further 3 months is then needed before you are allowed to travel to the UK with your pet.

Tapeworm (Dogs only)

All dogs need to be treated for tapeworm every time they enter the UK. Treatment must be given 1 to 5 days before arriving in the UK. The vet needs to record the medication name onto the documentation along with the date and time it was given.

Although there are a number of tasks you have to complete before travelling to the UK with your pet, when you are here and settling in it will be worth every minute and every piece of documentation. 

If you would like to find out more information on moving to the UK as an expat, we have a number of articles you may find useful (Links to other expat blogs here).

More information can be found on the UK Government website here: https://www.gov.uk/take-pet-abroad/overview