Let's talk about pet moves!

Relocating internationally is stressful enough, adding a beloved pet to the mix can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, moving your pet from the United States to London is very achievable when you understand the rules and plan ahead. The UK has some of the world's strictest pet import requirements, but with the right preparation, your pet can arrive safely and comfortably.

Below is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process successfully.

Start with Eligibility

England allows the import of dogs, cats, and ferrets under its Pet Travel Scheme. Pets must:

• Be at least 15 weeks old
• Meet all vaccination and identification requirements
• Comply with UK breed restrictions for dogs

Starting early ensures there's time to address any issues before travel.

Microchip Comes First (No Exceptions)

Your pet must be implanted with an ISO-compliant microchip before receiving their rabies vaccination.

This is critical:

• If rabies vaccination is done before microchipping, it becomes invalid
• The entire process would need to be repeated

Have your veterinarian confirm the chip can be read by international scanners.

Rabies Vaccination & Waiting Period

Once microchipped:

• Your pet must receive a current rabies vaccination
• After the first valid rabies vaccine, you must wait 21 days before entering the UK

Pets traveling directly from the U.S. do not need a rabies titer test, which simplifies the process. A rabies titer test (also called a rabies antibody test) measures the level of rabies antibodies in your pet's blood to confirm that the rabies vaccination was effective.

USDA-Accredited Health Certificate

Within 10 days of arrival in the UK, your pet must:

1. Be examined by a USDA-accredited veterinarian
2. Receive a completed Animal Health Certificate
3. Have that certificate endorsed by the USDA

This paperwork is one of the most common reasons pets are delayed or denied entry, so accuracy and timing are essential.

Tapeworm Treatment (Dogs Only)

Dogs must receive an approved tapeworm treatment:

• Administered by a veterinarian
• Given 24-120 hours (1-5 days) before arrival
• Recorded correctly on the health certificate

Cats are exempt from this requirement.

Booking the Right Airline & Route

Unlike many countries, the UK does not allow pets to enter the country in the cabin (with very limited service animal exceptions).

Pets must:

• Fly as manifested cargo
• Arrive at an approved UK airport, most commonly London Heathrow
• Travel on an airline authorized to transport animals into the UK

Airline rules, seasonal embargoes, and breed restrictions can complicate this step.

Use an Approved Travel Crate

Your pet must travel in an approved travel crate that:

• Allows them to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably
• Is properly ventilated
• Is clearly labeled with live animal markings and documentation

Crate training in advance can significantly reduce travel stress.

Arrival & Customs Clearance in London

Upon arrival:

• UK authorities inspect your pet and documents
• If everything is correct, release is typically smooth
• Errors can result in quarantine, refusal of entry, or return to the U.S. at the owner's expense

The UK enforces its rules strictly, with little room for correction after arrival.

A Simple Timeline to Remember

At minimum, plan for:

• Microchip → rabies vaccination → 21-day wait
• Health certificate issued within 10 days of arrival
• Tapeworm treatment (dogs) 1-5 days before arrival

Most successful moves begin 2-3 months before travel.

Should You Use a Professional Pet Transport Service?

While some owners handle the process themselves, many choose professional pet movers because:

• UK regulations allow zero margin for error
• Airline cargo bookings are complex
• One small paperwork mistake can delay or endanger a pet's journey

Experienced pet transport companies coordinate veterinary requirements, USDA endorsements, airline bookings, and UK clearance, giving pet parents peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Moving your pet from the U.S. to London is possible, but it requires careful planning, precise timing, and attention to detail. Starting early and following the correct order of steps is the key to a smooth, stress-free journey for your pet.

If you're planning an international move with your dog or cat, preparation is the best gift you can give them.