Our New London Route: Pet Travel to the UK Reimagined

Bringing a pet to the United Kingdom has long been one of the most bureaucratically demanding pet relocation journeys in the world. Between the GB Pet Travel Scheme, Animal Health Certificates, tapeworm treatments, titre testing and the strict timeline requirements that govern each step, it is a process that catches many pet owners off guard.

Skye Pets' Dubai–London and Melbourne–London routes change the experience entirely. Your pet travels in the cabin, not in cargo. And our team handles the complexity so you don't have to.

UK Pet Import Requirements at a Glance

To bring a pet into the UK, your animal must meet the requirements of the GB Pet Travel Scheme. These include:

• ISO-compliant microchip (implanted before or on the same day as rabies vaccination)
• Valid rabies vaccination (given after microchipping)
• Rabies titre test showing a result of at least 0.5 IU/ml (from an EU-approved laboratory)
• Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued no more than 10 days before arrival, or a valid pet passport issued in an EU member state or Northern Ireland
• Tapeworm treatment for dogs, administered by a vet 24 to 120 hours before arrival
• Entry via an approved port or airport

What About the AHC?

Great Britain no longer issues its own pet passports. For entry into Great Britain, an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is required — though a valid pet passport issued in an EU member state or Northern Ireland remains accepted for entry into Great Britain. The AHC must be issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV), a vet specifically authorised by the government to sign health certificates for international travel. Not all vets hold OV status, so it's important to find one with the right accreditation in advance.

The Tapeworm Treatment Requirement

Dogs travelling to the UK must be treated for tapeworm (specifically Echinococcus multilocularis) by a vet, no fewer than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours before scheduled arrival. This treatment must be recorded in the animal's AHC. Missing this window, even by a few hours, can result in your dog being refused entry or placed in quarantine at your expense.

The Skye Pets Difference on UK Routes

When you fly the London route with Skye Pets, our team will brief you on the full timeline, required documents, and treatment windows specific to your origin country. You'll have access to our Pet Portal, pre-travel consultation, and direct support from our team throughout the process.

Departure is from Dubai International Airport or Melbourne Airport via a private charter terminal, away from the crowds, with dedicated check-in and a private lounge before boarding.

If you're planning a move to the UK with your pet, the earlier you start, the better. Get in touch with our team to begin the consultation process.