Guide dogs in Britain

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Guide dogs in Britain

If you're travelling to Britain with a guide dog, you are advised to contact the Department for Food and Rural Affairs (www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/quarantine/pets/procedures/owners.htm) (Defra) before booking your trip.

Guidelines on bringing pets, including guide/service dogs into the UK change frequently, so consult your veterinary surgeon for information regarding documentation and procedures required for travel into the UK with your dog.

PETS Travel Scheme

Your guide/service dog can enter the UK from certain countries without going into quarantine under the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). Countries participating in PETS include parts of Europe, Bahrain, the USA and Canada. For a full list of participating countries, visit Defra – PETS listed countries (www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/quarantine/pets/territory.htm).

To be eligible for PETS, there are certain procedures you must follow:

Have your pet microchipped
Have your pet vaccinated
Arrange a blood test for your pet
Get PETS documentation
Have your pet treated against ticks and tapeworm
Arrange for your animal to travel with an approved transport company on an authorised route.

For more detailed information on PETS and its procedures, visit Defra – PETS (www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/quarantine/pets/procedures/owners.htm).