Getting There with Your Pet in United Kingdom
Eurotunnel, pet-friendly ferries, DEFRA-approved flight routes, driving on the left, and trains.
- Eurotunnel Le Shuttle: the main pet route, via a 24-hour Pet Reception at each terminal.
- Only APHA-approved airlines and airports can fly pets into Great Britain — no approved air route into Wales.
- Up to two dogs travel free on most National Rail services, on a lead throughout.
Guides in this topic
5 guides · updated October 2026
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Eurotunnel Le Shuttle
Check in at Pet Reception, stay in the car for the crossing, and you're in Great Britain about 35 minutes later.
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Ferry Crossings
A real alternative to Eurotunnel on Channel and North Sea routes — check each operator's own rules before booking.
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By Plane
Only routes and carriers approved by the Animal and Plant Health Agency can bring pets into Great Britain by air — and there are currently none into Wales.
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Driving on the Left
The UK is one of the few places in Europe that drives on the left — and the Highway Code has a specific rule about restraining your pet.
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By Train (National Rail)
Up to two dogs travel free on most National Rail services, on a lead for the whole journey, including on the station platform.