Moving with a Pet to England

Moving to England with a pet involves a series of important steps to ensure the health and safety of your furry companion. England has specific requirements for vaccinations, microchipping, and paperwork to make sure that pets entering the country do not pose a risk to local fauna or public health. Quarantine is not typically required for pets entering from most countries, provided they meet the necessary health requirements. It's quite common for people in England to have pets, and you'll find that dogs and cats are especially popular. However, the process of bringing them into the country is regulated to prevent the spread of diseases such as rabies. In this article, we'll delve into the details of what you need to know about bringing your dog or cat to England, including prohibited pets, the process of entry, and what to do upon arrival.

Can I bring my dog to England?

Yes, you can bring your dog to England, but there are specific requirements you must meet. Your dog must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have a pet passport or third-country official veterinary certificate. Tapeworm treatment is also required for dogs. The UK does not require quarantine if these conditions are met. It's important to follow the guidelines set by the UK government to ensure a smooth entry for your dog.

Can I bring my cat to England?

Similar to dogs, cats can be brought into England as long as they comply with the UK's pet travel rules. Your cat must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. You'll need to provide a pet passport or third-country official veterinary certificate. Unlike dogs, cats do not need a tapeworm treatment. As with dogs, if you meet all the health requirements, your cat will not need to be quarantined upon entering England.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into England

While many pets are allowed into England, there are some restrictions. Certain breeds of dogs are prohibited, including the Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro. Additionally, it's illegal to bring in any animal that is listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) without the appropriate permits. Hybrids of domestic and wild animals, such as wolf-dogs, may also be subject to restrictions or prohibitions.

How do I bring my pet to England?

To bring your pet to England, you must ensure they are microchipped and vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. You'll need to obtain a pet passport if you're coming from an EU country or a third-country official veterinary certificate if you're coming from outside the EU. The certificate should confirm your pet's microchip number and rabies vaccination. Dogs must also receive a tapeworm treatment between one and five days before entering the UK. It's essential to travel with an approved transport company and route unless you're coming from Ireland. Make sure to check the latest regulations before you travel, as rules can change.

Upon Arriving in England

Once your pet has arrived in England, there are a few things you should do to ensure their well-being and compliance with local regulations. While there's no need for a specific pet license in the UK, you should register your pet with a local veterinarian as soon as possible. Finding a vet can be done online or by asking for recommendations from local pet owners. Dogs and cats are generally well-liked in England, and you'll find plenty of dog parks and pet-friendly places. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with local rules regarding pets in public spaces, such as leash laws and waste disposal. By taking these steps, you can help your pet adjust to their new home and ensure they remain healthy and happy.