Moving to Europe is exciting, but if you have a dog, cat or ferret, there’s one more thing to think about: how are you going to get your pet there safely?
A long-distance move involves more than putting your pet in the car and heading for the Channel. You need to check the travel paperwork, make sure vaccinations are up to date, plan the route and think about how your pet will cope with several hours on the road.
With the right preparation, though, the process can be much easier.
What Is Pet Relocation?
Pet relocation is simply the process of moving your animal from your current home to a new home in another country. It’s commonly used by families who are moving permanently, taking up a job overseas, retiring abroad or spending a long period in Europe.
Rather than arranging different parts of the journey yourself, a professional transport service can collect your pet from your UK home and take them directly towards the new address.
The journey might involve the Channel Tunnel, several road stops and, for longer routes, an overnight stay.
Of course, every move is different. A trip from London to northern France is a very different proposition from taking a large dog from Manchester to southern Spain.
What Does My Pet Need to Travel to Europe?
This is one of the first things you should sort out.
For most journeys from Great Britain to the EU, dogs, cats and ferrets need to meet specific identification and health requirements. Your pet will generally need a suitable microchip and a valid rabies vaccination.
If your pet is having its first rabies vaccination, you normally have to wait at least 21 full days before travelling.
You may also need an Animal Health Certificate, which must be completed by an authorised Official Veterinarian within the required period before travel.
Some countries have extra requirements, too. For example, there are particular tapeworm rules for dogs travelling to certain destinations.
The important thing is not to rely on paperwork from an old trip. Check the current requirements for the country you’re moving to before setting your travel date.
When Should I Start Getting Ready?
Ideally, don’t leave everything until the last few days.
Start by checking your pet’s microchip details and vaccination record. If a rabies vaccination is needed, allow enough time for the waiting period.
You can then arrange the veterinary appointment and get the required travel certificate within the correct timeframe.
It also helps to prepare your pet for the journey itself. If your dog isn’t used to long car journeys, a few shorter trips beforehand can help. Cats may benefit from spending some time getting comfortable with their travel carrier.
Before moving day, make sure you have:
- Your pet’s travel documents
- Vaccination information
- Microchip details
- Food and drinking water
- Any regular medication
- A familiar blanket or toy
- Lead and collar or harness
- Suitable carrier if required
A little preparation now can save a lot of hassle later.
How Does Road Pet Transport Work?
For many European destinations, travelling by road is a convenient option.
Your pet can be collected from your UK home and travel in a suitable vehicle towards the Channel crossing. Once the vehicle reaches mainland Europe, the journey continues by road towards your destination.
For pet owners, one of the biggest advantages is that the journey doesn’t involve several airport transfers or cargo-handling stages.
Long journeys also need to be paced properly. Your pet should have opportunities for water, toilet breaks and some time to settle during the trip.
If the destination is several hundred miles away, an overnight stop may be needed.
What Happens at the Channel Tunnel?
For many mainland European journeys, the Channel Tunnel is part of the route.
The vehicle travels from the UK to Folkestone before crossing to Calais on Le Shuttle. The tunnel crossing itself takes roughly 35 minutes, although the whole process takes longer once check-in and border procedures are included.
Once the vehicle reaches France, the road journey continues towards the final destination.
This can be a straightforward way to reach countries such as France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Spain and Italy without putting your pet through a flight.
How Much Does It Cost?
There isn’t a single price for moving a pet from the UK to Europe.
The cost depends on several things, including where your pet is being collected, where they’re going, the number of animals, their size and the distance involved.
A short trip to France will naturally require a different arrangement from a journey to Portugal or southern Spain.
The quotation may also take account of:
- Total driving distance
- Channel crossing
- Number of pets
- Size of the animals
- Travel date
- Overnight accommodation
- Special care requirements
- Private transport arrangements
That’s why it’s better to request a price based on your actual collection and delivery addresses.
Which Pets Can Travel?
Dogs, cats and ferrets can all be transported, provided the relevant travel requirements are met.
Dogs can travel in a secure area suited to their size. Cats will generally travel in a suitable carrier, while ferrets have their own documentation and health requirements.
Every animal is different. If your pet is nervous, elderly, very young or needs regular medication, mention this before the journey is booked. The transport plan can then take those needs into account.
Where Can I Move My Pet?
France is a popular choice because it’s relatively close to the UK and easily reached after the Channel crossing.
Spain is another common destination, particularly for people moving to areas such as Alicante, Valencia, Málaga and the Costa del Sol. Because of the distance, these journeys often need more planning.
Pets can also travel to destinations such as Portugal, Germany, Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands.
UK and Europe Pet Taxi can help arrange journeys for owners who are moving their pets from Britain to European destinations.
Can I Travel With My Pet?
In some cases, yes.
Whether you can travel alongside your pet depends on the vehicle, route and available space. It’s best to mention this when asking for a quotation rather than assuming it’s included.
For some owners, travelling together makes the whole move feel much easier.
How Long Will the Journey Take?
That depends entirely on the destination.
France may be possible within a single day, while Spain, Portugal and Italy can take considerably longer. Traffic, rest breaks, the Channel crossing and the final delivery address all affect the schedule.
Long-distance journeys shouldn’t be rushed. Your pet’s comfort needs to remain part of the plan from collection through to arrival.
Making the Move Easier for Your Pet
Moving abroad is a big change for an animal, too. Familiar smells, routines and people can make a difference, so try to keep things as normal as possible before departure.
Get the paperwork sorted early, speak to your vet about any health concerns and make sure your pet is comfortable with their travel arrangements.
Once the journey is properly planned, you can concentrate on what really matters: getting settled into your new home together. Read more: luxury pet travel uk to europe