Bringing your dog, cat, or other pet to the United Kingdom can be stressful — especially if you are moving from overseas. The UK has strict rules to protect animals, people, and the environment. If you do not follow the process correctly, your pet may be refused entry, quarantined, or sent back to your home country.
This guide explains how to bring your pet into the UK legally and safely. It includes key rules, documents, and tips to help you and your furry companion start your new life smoothly.
Can You Bring Pets to the UK?
Yes — the UK allows people to bring pets, but only under specific rules. These rules depend on:
- Your country of origin
- The type of animal
- Whether you are travelling by plane, ferry, or train
This guide focuses on dogs and cats, as they are the most common pets brought into the UK. Other animals (e.g. rabbits, birds, reptiles) have different rules and may need special approval.
Step 1: Check the Rules for Your Country
The UK groups countries into three categories:
1.
Part 1 listed countries
(e.g. EU nations, Australia, New Zealand)
- Lower risk of disease
- Easier entry with a pet passport or health certificate
2.
Part 2 listed countries
(e.g. USA, Canada, UAE)
- Extra paperwork required (including a UK health certificate)
3.
Unlisted countries
(e.g. some African, Asian and South American countries)
- Stricter rules
- Requires a rabies blood test and waiting period
👉 Check if your country is listed here
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
To bring a dog or cat into the UK, you usually need:
- Microchip (must be ISO-compliant and done before rabies vaccination)
- Rabies vaccination certificate
- Pet passport or animal health certificate (issued within 10 days of travel)
- Tapeworm treatment (for dogs, if arriving from certain countries)
- Proof of transport with an approved travel company
👉 Use this travel checklist for pets
Missing any of these steps may lead to quarantine or entry refusal.
Step 3: Choose How to Travel
Pets must arrive in the UK on approved routes and with approved carriers. You cannot bring pets to the UK in the cabin of a plane (except for assistance dogs). Options include:
By Plane
- Pets travel in the cargo hold with approved airlines
- You must book through a registered pet transport company
- Your pet will be checked by UK animal authorities on arrival
By Ferry or Eurotunnel
- Available for car travellers from Europe
- Some ferry routes allow pets to stay in the car or designated pet areas
👉 Compare approved pet travel options here
Do not attempt to bring your pet in your personal luggage or on unapproved routes.
Step 4: What to Expect on Arrival
When your pet arrives in the UK:
- It will be checked by Border Force Animal Reception staff
- If documents are complete, your pet will be released to you
- If something is missing, your pet may go into quarantine (up to 4 months)
Quarantine is stressful and expensive — it is best to double check every requirement before you travel.
Quarantine Rules
Pets only go into quarantine if:
- They do not have the correct documents
- Their rabies vaccination is invalid or out of date
- They arrive through an unapproved route
If your pet needs quarantine:
- You cannot visit them during this time
- You must pay all costs
- It can last up to 4 months
👉 View list of UK pet quarantine centres
Finding a Vet in the UK
Once your pet arrives, it is a good idea to register with a local veterinary clinic. Vets in the UK can help with:
- Health checks and vaccinations
- Pet passports for future travel
- Microchip updates
- Flea and worm treatments
Use websites like VetHelpDirect or ask your neighbours for local recommendations.
Getting Pet Insurance
Vet care in the UK is not free. Many people get pet insurance to cover:
- Accidents or injuries
- Illnesses or long-term conditions
- Emergency care
- Third-party liability (if your dog causes damage)
Policies start from around £10 per month, depending on the animal, breed, and age.
👉 Compare pet insurance options
Other Useful Tips
- Use an airline-approved crate for travel
- Add a familiar toy or blanket to reduce stress
- Avoid sedatives — they are not usually recommended for air travel
- Label your pet’s crate clearly with your name, address, and contact number
- Bring pet food and water bowls for the journey
👉 Shop for approved travel crates here
Final Thoughts
Bringing a pet to the UK requires careful planning, but it is possible and safe if you follow the rules. Start early, get all the correct documents, and use trusted travel routes.
Once in the UK, register with a vet, consider pet insurance, and give your pet time to adjust to their new environment. The UK is a pet-friendly country, with plenty of green spaces, dog parks and services for animals.