Travelling to the UK with your dog
The Kennel Club welcomes overseas dogs competing at UK licensed
events, but bringing your dog into the UK takes some organisation.
Of course you will need to comply with all the regulations required
for the Pet Travel Scheme, but there are many other regulations
that require consideration, from travelling safely in a car to
travelling on planes or ferries. These regulations can change on a
regular basis, so it is wise to check before you leave.
Welfare of your dog
Dog welfare is of primary concern to the Kennel Club. When
deciding whether you want to travel to the UK to compete
with your dog, you really need to decide whether it is in your
dog's best interest to travel a great distance to compete in the
UK. If you are certain that the welfare of your dog will not be
compromised when travelling to the UK, then the following
information should be useful to you.
Quarantine Regulations
There are strict rules on bringing your dog into the UK,
and you will need to act at least eight months before you travel.
Full details.
ATC (Authority to Compete) Number
You will NOT need to obtain an ATC number from the Kennel
Club to compete in the European Open Agility
Championships 2012. However you will need an ATC number to compete
in the Kennel Club International Agility Festival which follows, or
any other Kennel Club licensed agility shows while you are in the
UK. You should apply for an ATC number at least one month before
entries for the relevant agility show close. Full details.
Insurance
It is strongly advised that you consider travel insurance which
will cover you and your pet for emergency overseas veterinary
costs, kennelling fees and third party liability.
Air travel with your dog
- When flying into the UK, ensure that the airport has the
facilities to cater for dogs entering the UK under the Pet Passport
Scheme - not all airports in Britain have signed up to the Scheme
yet.
- Ensure that your dog has sufficient water in its flying crate
and that this will be checked by the airport staff before your dog
is loaded onto the aircraft and at any stop-overs.
- On arrival in the UK, Customs may request that you give a value
for your dog. Although viewed by Customs as imported 'goods', you
should not overstate the value of your dog since this attracts
tax.
Staying in the UK
- Once in the UK, be aware that not all hotels will accept dogs.
If they do, they may make an additional charge for its stay.
(Please see our European Open 2012
Accommodation Guide for more information)
- Transport your dog safely, preferably by using a special dog
guard, dog cage or canine harness. Always ensure your dog has
plenty of ventilation and shade in a car and that fresh drinking
water is always readily available.
- Never leave your dog unattended in a car for long periods of
time, and NEVER in hot weather.
Dog laws in the UK
Please be aware of dog laws in the UK. The Kennel Club
Information Guide, Do you know dog
law? will assist you.
Further relevant information on travelling with your dog in the
UK can be obtained by reading the Kennel Club Information Guide Road travel with
your dog.