Bringing Your Pet to the UK: A Personal Guide

 


Bringing a beloved pet to the UK can be both an exciting and daunting experience. Based on personal anecdotes and experiences, this guide covers the costs, best agents, time taken, procedures, and what to expect during the process.

The Costs

The cost of relocating a pet to the UK varies significantly, often depending on the service provider and specific requirements. Here are some real-life examples to give you an idea:

  • R25,000 - R42,000: This range covers most experiences, with the majority spending around R30,000 to R40,000.
  • Additional Costs: Veterinary expenses for vaccinations, microchipping, and rabies tests are often not included in the initial quote. One user mentioned, “We paid approx R30k, excluding vaccinations, microchipping, and rabies test which we did prior to Petport collecting.”

Best Agents to Use

Choosing the right pet relocation agent can make a significant difference. Here are some of the top recommendations based on user experiences:

  • Petport: Mixed reviews. Some users had a smooth experience, while others faced issues with administrative tasks and unexpected costs. One user said, “Petport worked very well for me. 9-year-old Yorkie,” while another warned, “DO NOT USE PETPORT” due to poor follow-up and additional fees.
  • Animal Travel Services: Highly praised for being organized and experienced. “Currently using Animal Travel Services, they’ve been amazing. My furbaby flies Thursday,” shared one pet owner.
  • Global Paws: Frequently recommended for their excellent service. A satisfied user noted, “Global Paws - fantastic service - my 2 border collies arrived a few weeks ago. Ask for Gemma.”
  • Pets Travel: Known for treating pets like family. One user said, “Pets Travel were amazing with our three furry kids. Treated them like they were their own.”
  • Keringa Petwings: Positive reviews as part of a reputable pet travel network. “We used Keringa Petwings (they were great),” mentioned a happy customer.
  • Aeropets: Professional and supportive service. “Contact Kirsten at Aeropets. They are amazing,” recommended one pet owner.

Time Taken

The time taken to relocate your pet can vary. It generally includes preparation time for vaccinations and tests, as well as the actual travel and any required quarantine or customs processing. Here are some insights:

  • Preparation Time: This includes getting all vaccinations, microchipping, and rabies tests done according to UK regulations. One user shared, “Make sure you have all your annual jabs, rabies, microchip certificates and also your rabies titre test done according to the rules.”
  • Travel Time: Depending on flight availability and the service provider, the actual travel time can vary. Delays can occur due to flight schedules or paperwork issues. One user mentioned, “Our 2 dogs and 1 cat all arrived safely on the same day as us,” indicating that timing can align well with your own travel plans if managed properly.

Procedures to Bring Your Pets

Relocating your pet involves several steps. Here's a general outline of the procedures:

  1. Microchipping and Vaccinations: Ensure your pet is microchipped and has all necessary vaccinations, including rabies.
  2. Rabies Titre Test: Conducted at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination to confirm sufficient antibodies.
  3. Pet Passport or Health Certificate: Required documentation for your pet’s travel.
  4. Booking with a Pet Travel Agent: Choose a reliable agent to handle logistics.
  5. Pre-Travel Health Check: A final check-up by a vet before travel.
  6. Travel and Customs Clearance: Includes flight, customs clearance, and possible quarantine.

What to Expect

Relocating your pet can be stressful, but knowing what to expect helps. Here are some personal anecdotes:

  • Smooth Experiences: Many users had positive experiences with their chosen agents. One shared, “We used petport at the beginning of this year and they were great, yes things did take a bit longer and there were a few extra costs but they were all covid related so out of their control.”
  • Challenges: Some faced issues with paperwork and unexpected delays. “Petport put them into the crates and they were loaded onto a Qatar plane, then after about 3 hours they were offloaded and sent back to kennels,” recounted one frustrated pet owner.
  • Adjustments: Pets may need time to adjust to their new environment. Ensuring they are comfortable and familiar with their new home is crucial.

Conclusion

Bringing your pet to the UK involves careful planning and choosing the right service provider. Costs can vary, so budgeting around R30,000 to R40,000 is reasonable. Opt for reputable agents like Animal Travel Services, Global Paws, or Keringa Petwings for a smoother experience. Be prepared for the necessary procedures and potential challenges, and soon, your furry friend will be happily settled in their new UK home.

Have you relocated your pet to the UK? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!


We at Immigration assist may not be able to bring your fur babies over but we can assist with all that you need for your processes when Emigrating to the UK.

www.immigrationassist.co.za


Services Provided

Unabridged Birth Certificates expedited

Unabridged, Birth and Marriage Certificates in 2 to 3 weeks.

Vault copies in 7 to 10 working days

Letters of Non-Impediment.

Retention of South African Citizenship

Police Clearances in 7 working  days

Expungements of criminal records 10 years or older.

UK Birth, Death and Marriage Certificates.

British Passport renewals and First time applications.

UK Citizenship through UKM, UKF and MN1 and double decent

Ancestral Visas for the UK

Tourist Visas for the UK

Family Settlement Visas both Spousal and dependency

Apostilles in a week

Legalizations and Authentication  of documents.

Zambian, Zimbabwean Birth and Marriage certificates

Translation of documents

National Archive documentation searches.

Confirmation of SA Drivers licenses


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