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Bringing your pet dog, cat or ferret to Great Britain
What are the benefits of using a Pet Relocation Partner?
Moving with your pet in the car can be stressful, but pet transportation services offer a convenient and relaxed alternative with several benefits:
Expert Care: Professional pet transportation services have expertise in pet handling and travel laws, ensuring your pet is well cared for during the journey, including special arrangements if needed.
Stress-Free Travel: These services handle all travel complexities, including airport procedures and documentation, eliminating the hassle of dealing with airport gates and custom-built crates.
Door-to-Door Convenience: Pet transportation services manage the entire journey from pick-up to drop-off, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience without the need to rush to the airport with your pet
Peace of Mind: Knowing professionals are taking care of your pet allows you to focus on your move or trip. Regular updates on your pet's wellbeing provide peace of mind throughout the journey.
Considerations Before Using Pet Transportation Services
Know Your Pet's Needs: Evaluate your pet's temperament and health. Some pets may need calming aids or ground transport before flying.
Paperwork Matters: Ensure your pet's vaccinations, microchipping, and health certificates are up to date. Understand the specific documentation required for your destination, especially for international trips.
Choosing the Right Service: Research and select a reputable company. Look for credentials, experience, positive reviews, temperature-controlled carriers, and emergency services.
Cost Considerations: Be aware of the various costs involved, including airline fees, carrier charges, labour, and care duties. Consider the journey length, your pet's size, service level, and assistance with paperwork when budgeting.
Using a reputable pet transportation service ensures your pet's safety and comfort, making your move or trip much less stressful.
Tips for Bringing Pets into the UK from Canada
Bringing your pet from Canada to the UK involves several steps to ensure a smooth journey and compliance with UK regulations. Here are some essential tips to help you navigate the process:
Understanding the Current Regulations
Not long ago, the UK had some of the strictest regulations for bringing pets into the country, including a mandatory six-month quarantine. Nowadays, with the Pet Passport scheme or an Animal Health Certificate (AHC), the quarantine period is essentially done in the country of origin. If all paperwork is in order, your pet can enter the UK without quarantine.
However, incorrect paperwork could still result in quarantine, although it won’t be for six months.
Step-by-Step Guide to Bringing Your Pet to Great Britain
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Check Eligibility Ensure your pet is allowed entry into the UK. Some species or breeds may have restrictions.
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Microchip Your Pet Microchip your pet before any vaccinations. This ensures they can be identified and traced back to you.
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Vaccinate Against Rabies Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. Ensure the vaccination is valid and up to date.
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Obtain a Pet Travel Document For pets traveling from Canada to the UK, you'll need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). This proves your pet meets all the health requirements for entry.
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Keep Your Pet Contained in Vehicles Whether traveling by car, bus, ferry, or train, keep your pet on a leash or in a crate to ensure their safety and comfort.
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Check Airline Pet Policies Each airline has specific regulations for traveling with pets. Check the airline's website or contact their customer service for detailed requirements.
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Visit the Vet Pre-Travel Schedule a vet visit before you travel. Ensure all vaccinations are up to date, discuss any concerns, and get advice on calming options if needed.
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Plan for Your Pet’s Physical Limitations Consider your pet’s age and health. Plan for rest breaks and be mindful of their physical limits.
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Pack Pet Essentials Bring your pet’s usual food, treats, serving bowls, medications, and supplements. Pack bottled water to avoid digestive issues from unfamiliar water sources.
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Exercise and Potty Breaks Before any long journey, give your pet a good walk to tire them out and ensure they have relieved themselves. Check for pet relief areas if traveling by air and maintain their regular potty routine once you reach your destination.
For detailed information on the requirements and process, refer to the official UK government guide on bringing pets to Great Britain here.