International flights

Please find below a summary of the information you need to know if you are planning to take a guide dog on an international flight.

You may also wish to download a copy of the "Preparation of UK Guide Dogs and other Assistance Dogs for International Travel" document which is designed to provide advice to UK guide dog owners and other assistance dog owners.  However, many of the principles outlined in this document may apply to overseas residents contemplating travel to the UK.

• To meet the rules of the Pets Passport Scheme, the dog must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, blood tested and provide a satisfactory outcome to the test six months prior to travel and be treated for Ticks and Tapeworm 24 to 48 hours before re-entering the UK through an approved animal reception facility.
• DEFRA approved routes are available into Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester Airport.
• Guide dog and other assistance dog owners are encouraged to plan ahead and discuss travel plans with airline or booking agent as well as their local district team manager.
• When travelling with a guide dog owners should bring with them identification for themselves and their dog as well as a suitable car safety harness for securing the dog at take off and landing and at any other required time during flight.
• Pets Passport documentation should be sent by fax to the Animal Reception Centre, at the UK destination airport, ahead of flight.
• On arrival back in the UK, a nominated person will meet the guide dog or assistance dog owner at the arrival gate where documentation will be checked in accordance with the Pets Passport Scheme.
• The animal reception staff will attach a sticker to the dog, enabling it and its owner to continue through Customs and Immigration to their onward journey.
• Many of the UK airlines now operate long haul and short haul routes into the UK under the PETS Passport Scheme to Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester and Guide Dogs hope in the near future other airports will put in place the necessary facilities to enable guide dogs to travel into the UK with their owners.
• For details of up to date routes available under PETS visit the DEFRA website or ring the Helpline on 0870 241 1710.