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Did You Know?
Did you know that Queen Elizabeth II is a known dog lover and has owned numerous corgis throughout her reign? Her first corgi, Dookie, was a gift from her father, King George VI, when she was a child. Since then, she has had over 30 corgis, and they have become synonymous with the Queen.
However, in recent years, the Queen decided not to breed any more corgis to avoid leaving any behind after her passing. Instead, she has adopted two dorgis (corgi-dachshund crosses) named Candy and Vulcan. The Queen’s love for dogs and her corgis, in particular, has been a charming and well-known aspect of her public image.
RELOCATING TO THE UK WITH YOUR PET? HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FOR YOUR FURRY FAMILY MEMBER.
When moving to the UK with your pet dog or cat, you can expect access to a range of pet-friendly facilities and services. The United Kingdom is known for its love of pets, and many establishments cater to the needs of furry companions. Here are some pet-friendly facilities and services you can expect:
Pubs and Restaurants
Explore pet-friendly pubs and restaurants like The Duncombe Arms, Staffordshire, The Thomas Cubitt, London, The Goshawk, Mouldsworth & Cheshire. St Petroc’s Bistro, Cornwall is another option which is just a stroll from Padstow’s tourist-magnet port.
Public Transportation
Check out pet-friendly transportation options such as Virgin Trains, which allows well-behaved pets on board. For buses, companies like Stagecoach often have pet-friendly policies—always confirm the guidelines for your specific journey.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
When you relocate to the uk with your pet, consider staying at pet-friendly hotels like Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire, The Mitre Hotel known for its pet amenities. For a beautiful Dartmoor country house experience, where its grade I-listed gardens have all sorts of exotic foliage, grottos, dells and glades to sniff around, visit Hotel Endsleigh , offering a warm welcome to furry guests.
Pet Stores
Explore popular pet stores like Pet Planet , Real Pet Store or The Pet Hut where you can find a diverse range of pet products. Jollyes is another store which offers pet products, grooming services, and veterinary clinics for comprehensive pet care.
Credit: K-9 Jets
Pet Relocation Services
Pet relocation services like Petair UK, Extrordinair , JCS Pet travel or K-9 Jets specialize in the import and export of pets. These services assist with paperwork and procedures to ensure a smooth relocation for pets.
Dog Parks and Walking Trails
Discover beautiful parks such as Hyde Park in London, which features a dedicated area for off-leash dog activities. For scenic walking trails, consider places like Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh, providing stunning views and dog-friendly paths.
Pet Events and Festivals
Attend pet-friendly events like DogFest or Pamper our Pets show offering a fun-filled day for dogs and their owners. The National Pet Show is another notable event featuring various exhibits and activities for pet enthusiasts.
Pet Cafés
Experience the charm of pet cafés like Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium in London, where patrons can enjoy beverages surrounded by resident cats. The Dog and Scone in Manchester offers a similar experience with dogs as companions.
Pet Insurance Providers
Consider reputable pet insurance providers like Agria Pet or Petplan, offering coverage for veterinary expenses. EveryPaw Insurance is another trusted option to ensure the health and well-being of your cats and dogs.
Remember to research and confirm specific pet policies and regulations in the area you plan to move to, as rules may vary. Overall, the UK offers a welcoming environment for pet parents, making it easier for you and your pets to settle into your new home.
STEP 1: Initiate the Process Early
Start the pet relocation process at least 4 months before the planned movement date.
STEP 2: Microchip Implantation
Implant an ISO 11784/785 microchip (15 digits) before Rabies vaccination. Veterinarians can assist, or you may contact us for microchip procurement.
STEP 3: Vaccination
For dogs, administer Anti-Rabies, Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus (DHLPP). Cats require Anti-Rabies, Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP).
STEP 4: Rabies Serology Titration Test (RNATT/FAVN)
Ensure an adequate rabies serology titer result from an approved laboratory. Draw a blood sample at least 30 days post Anti-Rabies vaccination and before expiration. The acceptable result is >=0.5 IU/ml, with a minimum 90-day wait period.
STEP 5: Measure Your Pet
Measure your pet and procure an IATA-specified crate. Our recommended brands, including Petmate, Varipet, and SkyKennel, which you can conveniently purchased.
STEP 6: Crate Training
Ensure your pet becomes familiar with the travel crate. Refer to our crate training document for helpful tips.
Step 7: Finalize the Relocation Type
Due to Heathrow airport regulations, all pets must travel to the UK as Manifest Cargo. There are other routing wherein this can be bypassed on case to case basis. Reach out to your pet relocator to discuss.
STEP 8: Choose the right airline & book Pet’s Space
Coordinate with airlines or pet relocators to book the pet’s space, considering routing, layovers, time of travel, and crate size.
STEP 9: Vet Check and Document Endorsement
Within 10 days before the travel date, complete a vet check, and have the veterinarian issue/endorse health and fitness certificates, microchip certificate, sterilization certificate, and external/internal parasite treatment certificate.
STEP 10 :Tapeworm Treatment
For dogs, get tapeworm treatment no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before entering the UK. Ensure the treatment is approved for use and contains praziquantel or an equivalent effective against Echinococcus multilocularis tapeworm.
STEP 11: UK Health Certificate
Complete a standard Health Certificate, endorsed by the Government Veterinarian at the Ministry of Animal Quarantine & Certification Services or equivalent body. The certificate is valid for ten days.
STEP 12: The UK +/- 5 – Day Rule
Pets must fly non-commercially within five days of their parent for non-commercial moves. Failing this rule turns the move commercial, altering UK import requirements and timelines. Discuss commercial moves with your relocation coordinator.
STEP 13: Final Health Check and Certificates Issuance
Take an appointment with the Government Veterinarian 4-5 days before travel for a final health check and issuance of certificates. This ensures validity in case of flight delays, etc
This comprehensive guide ensures a systematic and well-prepared approach to pet relocation to the UK for further assistance, feel free to contact us as your dedicated pet relocation partner.
The United Kingdom also has several pet-friendly neighborhoods where you and your furry companions can feel welcome. Here are some of the most pet-friendly neighborhoods across the UK:
Notting Hill, London
Notting Hill is known for its beautiful parks, including Holland Park and Hyde Park, providing ample space for dog walks. Additionally, the area has pet-friendly cafes and shops.
Edinburgh, Scotland
The city of Edinburgh is generally pet-friendly, with numerous parks and walking trails. Areas like Holyrood Park and The Meadows are great for dog owners.
Chorlton, Manchester
Chorlton is often considered one of Manchester’s most pet-friendly neighborhoods. It has spacious parks and a community that embraces a pet-friendly lifestyle
Clifton, Bristol
Clifton in Bristol is known for its green spaces, including Clifton Downs, where dogs can enjoy off-leash areas. The neighborhood also has pet-friendly cafes and shops.
Leith, Edinburgh
Leith, a vibrant district in Edinburgh, has pet-friendly pubs, cafes, and parks. The Shore area is particularly popular among dog owners.
Hackney, London
Hackney is a diverse and trendy area with several parks like London Fields and Victoria Park. The neighborhood is home to pet-friendly businesses, including cafes and grooming services.
Bristol, Harbourside
The Harbourside area in Bristol is known for its waterside walks and pet-friendly establishments. It’s a popular spot for dog owners looking for scenic walks.
Glasgow West End
The West End of Glasgow has a welcoming atmosphere for pets. Kelvingrove Park offers green spaces, and the area has pet-friendly cafes and shops.
Bath, Widcombe
The Widcombe area in Bath is known for its pet-friendly parks and canal walks. It’s a quieter neighborhood with a community that appreciates pets.
Birmingham, Moseley
Moseley in Birmingham is often regarded as a pet-friendly area. It has parks and green spaces, and many local businesses are accommodating to pets.
While these neighborhoods are generally considered pet-friendly, it’s essential to check specific regulations and policies of accommodations, parks, and establishments in each area. Local attitudes toward pets may vary, and it’s always a good idea to confirm the pet-friendly status of a place before moving or visiting with your furry friends.
Take your pet along on your next international travel! We can make it happen!