rebeccajo

There are only certain routes by which you can bring an animal into the UK. "Route" doesn't mean method - it is literal as in "place". Adding another country into the mix just complicates things.

http://www.defra.gov.uk/files/pets-air-routes.pdf

Routes by sea:

http://www.defra.gov.uk/files/pets-sea-rail-routes.pdf

The airline determines how the pet flies. Usually as cargo.

happyglow

Just certificates for now, is what my vet said. He fills in the form at the end, when he does the tapeworm treatment.

happyglow

True - luckily the ferry into Harwich is an approved route. ISTR it's quite a comprehensive list.

There's a distinction between "cargo" and "excess baggage". For the pet it's the same, but the ticket is different.

I transported a pet a long time ago using one of those pet transport companies, and THAT was complicated. They seemed to delight in making everything into a drama, I guess to justify their exhorbitant fees. Very stressful for all concerned.

happyglow

.... and I'd just like to add, if that was the only option this time around we'd flipping SWIM it!

rebeccajo

I agree that those companies aren't necessary. The DEFRA regs were simplified about a year ago. I don't see the angst-ridden threads I use to see, so the simplification must be working.

happyglow

Very glad to hear it! I wonder why the UK insists that incoming dogs on flights have to use the "cargo" system, unlike mainland europe. The cynic in me suspects that somebody somewhere finds it a nice little earner, and is greasing a few palms. Tut tut.

rebeccajo

If coming by air, I was under the impression that it's more a matter of airline regulations..............

happyglow

Apparently it's DEFRA. There's an explanation here: http://www.mike-jess.com/2012/05/why...my-pet-in.html

rebeccajo

Interesting. Thanks for that. *I had a weiner dog once. Miss him to bits*