Traveling with Pets
Travelling with a pet can be one of the most rewarding parts of life on the road — having your furry companion along makes every journey feel more complete. Whether it’s a long weekend trip or a full-on European adventure, there’s nothing quite like seeing your dog bounding across open fields or your cat settling into a new cosy spot in the van. But it’s not without its challenges, and comfort — for both you and your pet — should always be part of the plan. That means thinking about where you park up: wide open spaces where a dog can run safely, or somewhere your cat can explore without the stress of being by a roadside or busy car park.
Handling the very hot days to dealing with a wet, muddy dog on your newly washed bed quilt is all in the adventure for you and your fur baby.
Hopefully, we will have some vlogs for you to dive into very soon
Travelling abroad with your pet
Taking your pet on the road or abroad can be a real adventure, but it comes with a fair bit of planning. It’s not just about packing their favourite toy — there are rules, timing, and paperwork to think about, especially if you’re heading into Europe.
Advantages
You get to keep your furry friend with you, which can make trips far less stressful for both of you.
No need to worry about kennels or pet sitters.
Gives pets new experiences and safe socialisation.
Disadvantages
Extra planning and vet visits are needed.
Some transport options, like ferries and the Eurotunnel, have strict pet requirements.
Paperwork can be tricky and sometimes expensive, like Animal Health Certificates (AHCs).
Travelling can be stressful for certain pets, particularly if they’re not used to confined spaces.
Pet Passport Options
Just a thought….Pets with a Northern Ireland-issued passport can still travel to the EU, which can save you from needing an AHC for each trip. Not saying to rush straight over to Ireland. But do some research!!!
Hopeful Return of the UK Pet Passport
This is a BIG one. There are ongoing talks between the UK and EU to bring back a more flexible multi-use pet passport system for UK pets. This would make repeat travel much simpler.
For now, nothing is confirmed, so pets travelling from Great Britain still require an AHC for each EU trip. This page will be updated when any new system is officially in place.
Key takeaway: plan ahead, keep your pet’s vaccinations and paperwork up to date, and check official guidance before you travel. Doing this makes journeys smoother and far less stressful for both you and your pet.
A possible cheaper option for a AHC
I accidentally came across this website business that offers online AHC for 99 GBP you give all the details they require online and you pick the AHC up at 1 of 2 ports where they have offices.
I personally haven’t used these but well worth a look could save you a few pennies. link to Abbeywell Vets
(not affiliated)
Here's some great information & advice
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Getting a Pet Passport in EU
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news… As it stands (legally)
Who can get an EU Pet Passport
EU pet passports must be issued by a vet in the country of residence.
That means the owner usually has to be a resident of that EU country and, in many cases, registered with a local tax or social system.
Simply being a UK citizen visiting the EU does not automatically allow you to get an EU pet passport there.
These passports are intended for pets living in that country — not for travellers trying to circumvent UK rules.
Practical implications
Some people think: “I’ll just pop over to Ireland or the Netherlands, France, Spain get a passport, and travel freely.” In reality, vets will often ask for proof of residence (like an address, utility bill, tax number (Portugal)). Without that, they cannot legally issue the passport.
Northern Ireland is an exception — pets already registered there can get an NI-issued passport valid for EU travel.
Bottom line
EU-issued pet passports are not a loophole for UK residents.
For UK pets, you still need an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) if travelling from Great Britain to the EU.
Trying to get an EU passport while only visiting will likely fail and could cause issues at the border.