How Can I Travel With Pets?

Have you considered travelling with pets? If you’re planning to take your furry friend abroad, there’s lots of things you need to do. In this article we’re going to look at the legal requirements and things to consider so that you and your pet can travel with confidence.

Travelling with pet’s checklist

According to the Government website, there is a simple checklist to follow if you’re taking your pet to a European country.

1. Ensure your pet is microchipped
2. Get your pet vaccinated against rabies
3. Get a pet travel document
4. If you have a dog, check if they need a tapeworm treatment
5. Check the rules for entering and exiting your destination
6. Take out suitable travel insurance for yourself

It’s important to note that travel insurance is designed for you and your family and won’t generally cover pets. Some policies, like our Free Spirit, can include cover for kennel/cattery costs in the event you are unwell abroad and need to extend your stay. However, this is in the instance that you leave your pet at a kennel/cattery at home.

There are several transport options available to you and your pet. Flying with your pet is possible, but this usually means they will have to travel in the hold. This option can cause distress to pets, especially if they have medical conditions or are older, so always put your pet’s health first.

An alternative option is to travel by ferry or with LeShuttle. If you’re travelling by ferry, there are a few rules you have to follow. For example, if you take your dog, they must be muzzled when outside of the car. You should also consider taking toilet training pads in case of an accident as well as things to clean up with.

If you choose to take your pet with LeShuttle, your pet is allowed to stay in your car with you. This way you won’t have to worry about leaving your pet alone and can provide any treats or entertainment as they need it. If you’re travelling to France, there will be a pet reception where you can bring your pet before boarding the train. On returning to the UK you will have a sticker to display in your car after checking your pet in.

You can usually take a dog, cat or ferret abroad. There are different vaccination, treatment and document requirements depending on which animal you are taking, so always check with plenty of time. Getting a pet certificate to travel needs to be done no more than 10 days before departure. Updating their rabies vaccination needs to be done at least 21 days before travel.