The UK is One of the Most Pet-Unfriendly Countries
If you’re planning to travel with your furry best friend, then you’ll need to know about the rules and regulations for flying with a pet in the United Kingdom.
What are the Regulations?
The UK has strict regulations when it comes to flying with pets, especially dogs. In order for your dog to fly in the cabin of an aircraft, they must be placed in an appropriately sized animal carrier that fits within certain size requirements. The carrier must also be well-ventilated and secure enough so that the dog cannot escape during the flight. Some airlines may require that your dog is muzzled while inside of the carrier as well.
In addition, all dogs must have an up-to-date vaccination certificate or pet passport before they can board any plane or enter any country within Europe. You should also make sure that you have taken out appropriate pet insurance as some airlines will not cover damages if your pet is injured or lost during travel.
The problem with all of the above is that it is just theory. In practice only Virgin Atlantic and foreign airlines carry dogs in the cabin on the way out of the UK but none does so on the way back. This makes the United Kingdom one of the most un-friendly countries when it comes to your furry pets.
It also make the country the most expensive in pet travel in the European continent.
Where Can I Fly My Dog?
Many major airlines offer flights where dogs can travel in the passenger cabin including Lufthansa, Virgin Atlantic and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. However, there are some destinations that do not allow pets such as Australia and New Zealand due to their strict quarantine laws. It is inconceivable why two “developed” countries such as Australia and New Zealand have such antiquated laws against animals. But they do.
It is always best to check with your airline prior to booking flights just to make sure that they do indeed accept pets on board as policies may change from time to time without notice. Bookings for pets only happen via the phone. All airlines require a call so they can arrange the pet to fly as they have restrictions on how many pets they can carry per flight.
A Nightmare With No End
Flying with your dog in and out of the UK is daunting. Be prepared for the worst. Knowing what restrictions apply for flying with a pet in the United Kingdom will help ensure that you are prepared for every step of your journey. The usual way back for a dog is to fly to France, Paris, and then crossover from Calais. This will add a considerable cost to your journey, for flights, trains, the Calais crossing fees and all other associated costs.
Not a great experience.