Let's talk about pet moves!

If you're relocating to the United Kingdom or taking a vacation with your pet, you may already know that international pet transport isn't as simple as booking a ticket. The UK enforces strict pet import rules, and meeting all the requirements can be overwhelming for the first-time traveler or the globetrotting explorer. Preparation, compliance and timing are critical to a good outcome for you and your pet.

At Air Animal Pet Movers, we specialize in international pet shipping to the UK, helping families move their furry companions safely, legally, and with care. Below, we break down the biggest challenges of pet relocation to the UK—and how we help you overcome them.

1. Understanding the UK's Pet Travel Rules (DEFRA Requirements)

The United Kingdom and most Commonwealth countries follow the DEFRA Pet Travel Scheme to control the spread of rabies and other diseases. This system involves multiple steps that must be completed in a specific order and within a defined timeframe. Air Animal Pet Movers deals with DEFRA regulations on a regular basis.

Common Mistakes:

• Missing the 21-day waiting period after rabies vaccination
• Failing to administer the tapeworm treatment within 24–120 hours of travel
• Using the wrong type of 15- digit microchip, often referred to as the TROVAN Chip, which is common in many parts of the world but not accepted for entry into the UK.

How We Help:

We guide you through every step, ensuring your pet is:

• Microchipped (ISO 11784/11785 compliant)
• Vaccinated against rabies
• Treated for tapeworms (dogs only, with proof from an accredited vet)
• Issued an official Export Health Certificate
• Registered with the CDC to simplify your pet's return trip to the USA (Optional, but we recommend it)

Air Animal Pet Movers ensures all documentation is correct and submitted on time, avoiding costly mistakes and delays.

Booking Approved Flights and Airports

Pets can't arrive in the UK as cabin or checked baggage—they must fly as manifest cargo into DEFRA-approved airports like:

• Booking Approved Flights and Airports
• Precise Timing and Document Handling
• Breed Restrictions and Airline Limitations
• Arrival Process and Pet Reunification

Why It's Challenging:

Pet-friendly flights are limited. Not all airlines accept pets to the UK and routes must comply with both airline and government regulations.

Our Advantage:

Air Animal Pet Movers is a founding member of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) and we have been helping pets travel to and from the UK for more than 48 years. Our experienced Pet Move Managers book the best rates and most convenient flights directly with pet-friendly, DEFRA-compliant airlines and handle customs requirements on arrival. Our relationships with animal reception centers and customs agents streamline your pet's clearance process.

3. Precise Timing and Document Handling

Timing is everything when it comes to shipping pets internationally, especially to the UK. If any document is missing or incorrectly dated, your pet could be denied entry or quarantined. Even if your paperwork is off by a single day, it may be returned by the USDA for corrections which can result in missed flights and lengthy delays.

What Can Go Wrong:

• Rabies certificate too old or too recent
• Tapeworm treatment done outside the required time frame
• Health certificate not issued by an accredited veterinarian

Our Process:

Your Air Animal Pet Move Manager will create a personalized relocation timeline for your pet, ensuring every step - from vet visits to document submission - is scheduled and confirmed. We offer three levels of service to the UK and Commonwealth countries based on your budget and desire for convenience: VIP, Pet Express or Book and Fly. Prior to your trip, your Pet Move Manager will work with you to determine which level of service makes the most sense for you and your pet.

4. Breed Restrictions and Airline Limitations

While the UK allows most breeds, some are banned under the Dangerous Dogs Act, including:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Brasileiro

Some short-nosed breeds (like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats) are also restricted by certain airlines due to respiratory concerns.

How We Handle It:

We evaluate breed-specific restrictions and select the safest, most compliant transport option. Our team is experienced in routing brachycephalic breeds with extra care.

5. Arrival Process and Pet Reunification

After landing, your pet will be transferred to a UK Animal Reception Centre for inspection and customs clearance.

Challenges Upon Arrival:

• Delays at customs
• Incorrect or incomplete paperwork
• Owner unavailable or unaware of collection procedures

We Make It Easy:

We manage direct communication with reception staff and customs officials. Most pets are reunited with their families within hours of landing.

Why Choose Air Animal for Pet Relocation to the UK?

With more than 48 years of experience and a foundation in veterinary care, Air Animal Pet Movers is one of the most trusted names in international pet transport services. We're DEFRA-aware, airline-certified, and deeply committed to treating your pet like family. Dr. Walter Woolf and Dr. Nia Rametta lead the team and are USDA Certified veterinarians. They supervise every trip we coordinate.