Introduction
This guidance is intended to assist carriers (e.g. ferry operators, airlines, railway companies) to care for and protect the welfare of pet animals during journeys to and from Great Britain. Although primarily directed at carriers accepting passengers who are transporting pet animals (dogs and cats) under the 'Pet Travel Scheme' (PETS), the principles apply to the transport of any pet dog or cat on other journeys.
Separate guidance is available for pet owners.
Legislation
Whenever animals are transported, including journeys with pets, the law requires that:
"No person shall transport any animal in a way which causes or is likely to cause injury or unnecessary suffering to that animal."[ 1]
If transport involves a commercial transaction between the carrier and the pet owner there are further obligations that must be complied with by the carrier. Therefore, the carrier may specify, within its own terms and conditions of carriage of pet animals, detailed requirements which have to be complied with.
The following sections provide more detailed advice for pet owners and carriers a PDF version of the advice is also available on this website.
- Fitness to Travel
- The travel enclosure or container
- Acceptance, Check in/reception
- During the Journey
- Heat stroke in Dogs
- Travel by Ferry
- Travel by Rail
- Travel by Air
Further Advice is also avaliable on the Pet Passport Scheme and Rabies quarantine websections or from the Animal Health Branch.
[1] Article 4(1) of the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order 1997. This Order implements Council Directive 91/628 EEC (as amended) on the protection of animals during transport.
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