Relocating from Europe to the UK with your pet? Our professional pet import service handles everything - from EU documentation to UK border requirements. We collect from any European country and deliver to your new UK address.
Pet Import Service: Europe to UK
Bringing a pet into the UK from Europe requires careful planning and specific documentation. Post-Brexit rules mean EU pets now need additional paperwork to enter Britain. Our relocation service includes:
- Document verification - We check all paperwork before travel
- Tapeworm coordination - Arranging the required treatment in Europe
- Door-to-door collection - From your European address
- UK border clearance - We handle all entry requirements
- Home delivery - Direct to your new UK address
UK Pet Import Requirements
Since Brexit, pets entering the UK from EU countries must meet specific requirements. Here's what your pet needs:
Essential Requirements
- Microchip - ISO 15-digit compliant chip (must be readable)
- Rabies vaccination - Valid and up to date
- EU Pet Passport or Animal Health Certificate - Documenting vaccination history
- Tapeworm treatment (dogs only) - CRITICAL: Must be administered by a vet 24-120 hours (1-5 days) before UK arrival
The Tapeworm Rule Explained
This is the most important requirement for dogs entering the UK. The tapeworm treatment:
- Must be given by a qualified veterinarian
- Must be recorded in your pet passport or health certificate
- Must be administered no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours before arrival
- Must use a product containing praziquantel (or equivalent)
We coordinate this for you - We'll arrange for a vet visit in your European location at the correct time before travel.
Why Import Your Pet by Road?
Compared to air freight, ground transport offers significant advantages for pet relocation:
| Factor | Air Freight | Our Ground Service |
|---|
| Pet travels in | Cargo hold crate | Climate-controlled vehicle |
| Handling | Multiple handlers, conveyor belts | One dedicated driver throughout |
| Comfort breaks | None | Regular stops for water & exercise |
| Owner contact | No contact during flight | Real-time updates, can accompany |
| Stress level | High (noise, pressure changes) | Low (calm, familiar environment) |
| Door-to-door | Airport to airport | Full door-to-door service |
The Import Process
Step 1: Book Your Relocation
Contact us with your current European location, UK destination, and preferred travel dates. We'll provide a quote and timeline.
Step 2: Document Check
Send us copies of your pet's EU passport or health certificate. We verify everything is in order and advise on any missing requirements.
Step 3: Tapeworm Coordination
For dogs, we arrange the required tapeworm treatment at a vet near your European address, timed correctly for UK entry.
Step 4: Collection
Our driver collects your pet from your European address. We verify all documents and ensure your pet is comfortable for the journey.
Step 5: Travel to UK
We drive to Calais and cross via Eurotunnel to Folkestone. The Channel crossing takes 35 minutes. Your pet stays in our vehicle throughout.
Step 6: UK Border
At the UK border, pet documentation is checked. We handle this process - you don't need to be present.
Step 7: UK Delivery
We deliver your pet directly to your UK address. Whether that's London, Manchester, Scotland, or anywhere else - we cover all of the UK.
Popular Import Routes
France to UK Pet Relocation
The most common route. Whether you're returning from Paris, moving back from the South of France, or collecting a rescue pet from French shelters.
Guide: Bringing dog from France to UK →
Spain to UK Pet Relocation
Popular for expats returning home and for rescue dogs from Spanish shelters. We cover all of Spain including the costas.
Guide: Bringing dog from Spain to UK →
Netherlands to UK Pet Relocation
Quick route for those relocating from the Netherlands back to Britain.
Guide: Bringing dog from Netherlands to UK →
Rescue Dog Import Service
We specialise in importing rescue dogs from European shelters to their new UK homes. Many UK families adopt dogs from:
- Spain - Podencos, Galgos, and street dogs
- Romania - Street dog rescue programmes
- Greece - Island rescue dogs
- Cyprus - Shelter dogs seeking homes
We work with rescue organisations to ensure all documentation is correct and coordinate the tapeworm treatment timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cats enter the UK from Europe?
Yes. Cats need the same microchip and rabies vaccination requirements as dogs. Cats do NOT need tapeworm treatment - this only applies to dogs.
What about ferrets?
Ferrets can enter the UK with the same documentation as cats - microchip, rabies vaccination, and EU pet passport or health certificate. No tapeworm treatment required.
How long does the journey take?
From Northern France or Belgium: 1 day. From Spain or Italy: 2-3 days with overnight stops. From Eastern Europe: 3-4 days.
What if my pet's documents aren't correct?
We check all documentation before travel. If something is missing, we'll advise on how to resolve it before your pet travels.
Can you collect from anywhere in Europe?
Yes. We collect from all EU countries plus Switzerland and Norway. Contact us for locations further east.
Book Your Pet Import
Ready to bring your pet to the UK? Get in touch for a free quote.
Related Articles