A Guide to Pet Travel in the U.K.

Introduction

Recognised as SME News Best Pet Travel Solutions Retailer 2023, Silver Circle Pets is passionate about helping you create ever lasting travel memories for you and your pet. We believe every journey, from weekend getaways to national escapades, can be a positive adventure for the whole family. In our commitment to your pet's travel well-being, and finding the best pet travel solutions, we've launched this ever evolving blog - your guide to unforgettable adventures with your animal companion.

Embarking on new adventures with our furry friends can be both an exciting and rewarding time - after all, we mostly travel for leisure purposes. Whether that’s a weekend getaway to the countryside, an inter-city invitation, a visit to a less-often travelled park, or an entirely new local landscape that you’ve just discovered; travelling with pets opens up a gateway to a whole new world for our sidekicks.

Interestingly, this comes at a time when pet ownership in the UK has seen a significant rise of late. According to Statista, pet ownership levels peaked to an unprecedented high of 62 percent in 2022, likely as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and increased time spent at home. In 2023, this figure shrank to 57 percent. With more than half of UK households owning at least one pet in 2021/22, dogs and cats were the most common household pets in that year.

This trend presents a great opportunity for pet owners to explore the joy of travelling with their pets, whether it’s within the city, across the country, or just to a new park. After all, for our pets, every new experience is a grand adventure.

Consider this: to a pet, their world often extends no further than your local park or neighbourhood. The sights, sounds, and smells they encounter on their daily walks are their version of 'globetrotting'.
Let's explore the different pet travel pawsibilities.

Walking on the Wild Side

Possibly the most popular mode of pet travel is walking. Taking in the sounds, sights, and scents at your dog’s pace and leisure is, in our opinion, underrated. Being in nature offers numerous benefits, including stress reduction, improved mood, and enhanced physical health for both you and your pet. Research has shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and boost overall mood.

Furthermore, allowing your dog time to check out different scents on their Sniffari is beneficial for their brain health, and captivates their mind leading them down a mental time travel of what other fellow fur friends and wildlife have passed by the area. Also known as 'pee mail'.

As we enjoy the benefits of pet travel and the great outdoors, it’s important to remember our legal responsibilities as pet owners. One such responsibility, as stipulated by UK law, is ensuring our dogs wear a dog tag. This is, in fact, the inspiration behind our name.

According to The Control of Dogs Order 1992, all dog owners in the UK must ensure their dog is wearing a dog tag or has their details inscribed or printed on a dog collar. The tag must state the dog owner’s name and address.

Conversely, cats are not required by UK law to wear a name tag. However, both dogs and cats are required to be microchipped.

Another such law is Controlling your dog in public, which stipulates you must be deemed to be in control of your dog at all times. Additionally, the Countryside Code provides advice for countryside visitors, including dog owners. It advises that dogs should be kept under close control, especially around livestock.

These guidelines ensure that our pets are not only safe but also legal as we explore the world around us.

Find your dog's fit with our Walking collection of premium pet wear - something your dog too can proudly display their silver circle with.

If the weather turns colder, fear not, we've got your dog's back (and their belly) with our dog jumpers.

Empowering Mobility

Injured or paralysed dogs can also be included on neighbourhood travels too, thanks to dog wheelchairs. Dog wheelchairs have revolutionised the way we care for our pets with mobility issues. These specially designed aids provide support for dogs (or cats, goats, and sheep) who have difficulty moving due to injury, paralysis, or age-related conditions. With a dog wheelchair, your pet can continue to participate in daily walks and outdoor adventures, maintaining their quality of life, physical and mental health. These wheelchairs are adjustable, comfortable, and easy to use, ensuring that every pet, regardless of their condition, has the chance to explore the world around them. So, even if your canine companion has mobility challenges, they don’t have to miss out on the joy of neighbourhood travels.

Give your pet a new lease of life with our Dog Wheelchairs and Mobility Accessories.

Saunter or Stroll

When we speak of a stroll along the promenade, we picture a leisurely wander.
To our four-pawed pals, a “stroll” doesn’t have to mean tired legs. A convenient mode of pet travel that allows you all to keep sauntering is a pet stroller. Though usually synonymous with dogs, this mode of transport is not limited to such. It can be, and is designed to be, used by reptile ramblers or by varying fur-friends, such as rabbits for example; like the Ibiyaya Travois Tri-Fold Pet Stroller & Travel System.

It's not just about getting from point A to B, but ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety while enjoying the journey. With a pet stroller, your animal friend can take in the sights, sounds, and smells of the world from a secure and comfortable vantage point. Whether it’s a trip to the vet, a walk in the park, or a day out in the city, there are a multitude of reasons why you might need a pet stroller, which makes every outing an adventure in itself. So, why not give it a try? After all, our pets deserve to travel in style too!

Discover our complete collection of Pet Strollers to help your fur-family navigate your next wander.

The world of pet strollers doesn't stop there, it also expands in to pet travel systems too.
A pet travel system is, naturally, perfect for pet parents who like to take their companion on their journeys with them. It not only offers a pet stroller, for whatever your reason may be for its need when you get to your destination; but it offers a multi-faceted package of pet travel solutions:

1. Pet Stroller: This is a wheeled device similar to a child's stroller, but designed to transport pets. It offers a secure and comfortable space for your pet to sit or lie down while you push the stroller.

2. Car Seat: The system often includes a detachable car seat that can be secured in your vehicle. This allows your pet to travel safely in the car, and the seat can often be used as a pet carrier as well.

3. Pet Carrier: As well as use as part of a pet stroller, the bassinet part of a pet travel system, is also able to be used as an independent pet carrier, or car seat. This is useful for smaller pets or for situations where you need to carry your pet.

4. Accessories: Many pet travel systems also come with additional accessories like storage baskets, cup holders, adjustable handlebars, or free rain covers for added convenience and comfort.

The beauty of a pet travel system is in its versatility. It can adapt to various travel situations, making it a practical choice for pet owners who frequently travel with their pets. Whether you're going for a walk, driving to the vet, or heading out for a weekend getaway, a pet travel system ensures your pet can come along in comfort and style.

Knowing that both pet strollers and pet travel systems will be carrying precious animal cargo, they're made in-line with baby stroller testing standards.

Ibiyaya Cleo Pet Travel System

Find one that fits in with your lifestyle with our unique collection of Pet Travel Systems

Pedalling with Pets

Travelling by cycling only accounts for 1% of distance travelled in the UK, but when added to your adventure arsenal it can provide an exciting prospect. However, before you both feel the fresh summer's breeze flowing through your fur and hair, it’s essential to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet during the journey.

While the UK’s Highway Code provides comprehensive guidance on road use, it does not specifically mention rules about travelling with pets by bicycle. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to ensure that your pet is secure and comfortable during your cycling adventures.

In addition to ensuring the safety of your pet, it’s also important to make sure your bicycle is equipped for safe travel and in good working order. The UK has clear laws regarding bicycle lights:

Lights: The most basic requirement of the law is to fit a white front light and a red rear light which must be clean and working properly, when cycling between sunset and sunrise.

Reflectors: Reflectors should also be fitted to pedals and the rear of the cycle.

Flashing Lights: Flashing lights are permitted but it is recommended that cyclists who are riding in areas without street lighting use a steady front lamp.

Tips for a Smooth Ride

When planning a cycling trip with your pet, consider investing in a specially designed pet carrier that can be attached to your bicycle. This will ensure your pet is secure and comfortable during the journey. Remember to take regular breaks, bring plenty of water for both you and your pet, and most importantly, enjoy the ride!

Long Paws Travel Water Bottle Set

For the most accurate information, you may want to check with local authorities.

Check out our Basil Bike Baskets, you may just pick out your pet's new-found cycle-safe-place.

From Bike Travel to Dog Bike Trailers

While biking with your pet can be a fun and rewarding experience, it’s not always the most practical or safe method, especially for longer journeys or for pets who are older or have health issues. That’s where dog bike trailers come into play.

Dog bike trailers, or dog stroller trailers as they are often referred to as, are a fantastic solution that allows you to bring your pet along on your cycling adventures without the risks associated with having them run alongside you. These trailers attach to your bike, providing a secure and comfortable space for your pet to enjoy the ride.

Some dog bike trailers even convert into a dog stroller, and vice-versa, giving you multiple choices in one product.

Although there are no laws, orders, or codes pertaining to dog bicycle trailers, each has its own safety features implemented into its design.

Safety features such as reflectors like the ones included in Petique's trailers.

Petique Breeze dog jogging stroller and dog bike trailer.

Other canine transport trailers feature reflective material and visibilty flags like the InnoPet Sporty Deluxe.

Whereas others offer safety in the way of battery powered lights - as can be found on Croozer's version of the dog bike trailer.

Considering hitting the undulations of local trail routes with your waggy-tailed pal in tow?

Prioritise your pet's safety on off-road adventures with DoggyTourer dog bike trailers. Built with sturdy 1.5mm aluminum, these trailers handle even the most adventurous outings. Their all-round tubular frame construction adds strength and lightness, while the optional Grid box provides overhead protection and doubles as a resting spot for you and your furry friend.

DoggyTourer dog bike trailers are even compatible with e-Bikes, like the DoggyTourer Idefix, all thanks to world-renowned German engineering.

Explore with peace of mind, knowing your dog enjoys maximum comfort and protection with DoggyTourer.

Persue your next wild ride with our Dog Bike Trailers.

More Hiker than Biker

 
Imagine your furry friend bounding along a scenic trail, sniffing new scents and exploring alongside you. Hiking with your pet can be a rewarding experience, offering you both a chance to explore what nature has to offer. However, just like us, our furry companions need to share the beauty of nature responsibly with wildlife, semi-domesticated livestock, and plant life. Imagine stumbling upon a grazing sheep herd during your hike. How can you ensure both a peaceful encounter and minimal impact on their habitat?

Here are some guidelines to ensure that your adventures are safe, enjoyable, and respectful to the environment.

Nature is considered one of the beauties of the world, and one of the ways to preserve it is by following the Leave No Trace guidelines, which originated in the United States of America. This is a set of principles that outlines a responsible exploration of rural routes and has also been adopted in the UK by Wilderness England.

The Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 is our reminder it is our responsibility to keep pets on a leash to protect wildlife, and also to respect other trail users. Remember, our goal is to explore without impacting the natural environment.

If we want to continue to take in the variety of peaceful, often vast lush green landscapes, or the stark ruggedness, and above all cleanliness, of Mother Nature then we should all do our bit to look after it.

With our Pet Carriers, not only can you can take along your essential belongings,

But you can take the pressure off your furry friend's paws with a comfortable pet carrier. This allows you to explore longer distances together while ensuring their safety and enjoyment.

Hazards and Poisonous Plants

The countryside in the UK is a habitat for diverse plant species, some of which can pose a risk to pets. Notably, plants like Foxglove

and Deadly Nightshade, which are prevalent in the UK, can be poisonous to our pets if consumed.

Therefore, it's crucial to monitor them closely to prevent them from ingesting anything potentially harmful.

Dealing with Dog Waste

Although the 'stick and flick' approach is occasionally recommended for rural areas, it's generally more advisable to collect your pet's waste and carry it with you. This practice helps maintain the cleanliness of trails for other users and contributes to the protection of the local ecosystem.

Making a pup-stop along the way? Take a look at our Long Paws Travel Bowl Set.

Happy hiking! 🐾

Buckle Up

Packing up and heading off to the beach can be a welcome break from your regular local walking routes. Before you do so, it's best to be safe than sorry when it comes to pet travel in car.

Did you know, according to Statista, there were approximatley 32.7 million passenger cars in operation in the United Kingdom as of 2020?

That's a lot of wheels hitting the road! Our roads have become increasingly busier, and so we should take precautions on behalf of our fur-family.

Restraint is key:

Just like we click our seatbelts for every journey, our four-legged companions need proper restraint in the car too.

Do dogs in cars have to be restrained?

Not only should they be secured for their safety, it is also a requirement by UK law.

Rule 57 of The Highway Code states:

When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.

Failing to follow the Highway Code could result in being considered to be driving without due care and attention.

What is 'suitably restrained'?

Suitably restrained, according to the Highway Code Rule 57, classes as your pet not being free to distract you, or injure you, or themselves.

Are dogs allowed in a car (passenger) front seat?

Yes, but further to this, if you've a front seat fur child it is recommended to move their seat as far back as possible, as well as switching off the passenger-side airbag. Airbags can deploy with significant force during an accident, and they may do more harm than good to your pet.

Airbags in the rear of a car are less likely to harm your pets. And so, generally speaking, there is no need to disable these.

Driving within the guidelines of the law whilst you're both in the car can come in varying forms. This can start with a harness, opposed to a collar for a dog - due to the body fitting of a harness, instead of a potentially life threatening collar.

Whilst a collar itself isn’t life threatening, when clipped on to a pet seat belt as a sole restraint, any accidental collisions could result in your pet having a broken neck. A horrific thought it may be, and makes for stark reading, but these are the realities.

Other options include: pet-friendly seatbelts, a hard-case pet carrier, a mesh boot guard, or a steel car crate.

Alternatively, you could opt for a dog car seat.

Dog car seats are a great option for several reasons:

Elevated Comfort: Dog car seats provide a cozy perch for your pet. They elevate your dog, allowing them to enjoy the view during the ride.

Safety Straps: Most dog car seats come with built-in safety straps that attach to your car’s seatbelt. This keeps your dog securely in place.

Ideal for Small Breeds: Dog car seats are especially suitable for small dogs who need a safe and comfortable seat when travelling; a place to call their own.

Take a seat with our collection of Dog Car Seats.

Ibiyaya Two-Tier Pet Backpack

Pillion Passenger

Motorcycle enthusiasts find joy in hitting the open road, and sometimes, they’re not alone. Whether you’re exploring picturesque landscapes or simply commuting, having your pet ride pillion alongside you can be a fun adventure. However, safety and adherence to legal requirements are crucial.

Whilst the Animal Welfare Act 2006 doesn't include any ruling specific to travelling your pet via motorbike (and sidecar), it does state that 'It is an offence to transport any animal in a way that causes injury to that animal'.

The Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs states you must travel your dog comfortably and safe at all times.

The Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats states you should seek veterinarian advice if you have concerns about pet travel.

Ways of keeping your pet safe when riding pillion would be to invest in a specialist pet carrier. A suitable motorbike-compatible pet carrier is required by law when travelling your fur friend by two-wheels.

The safest way of this method of pet travel would be to invest in a specific (dog) adapted sidecar, along with associated safety gear.

Pawblic Pet Travel

While pet travel by foot (or paw) provides a great opportunity for exercise and exploration, there are times when public transport becomes a more practical option. Whether it’s a trip to the vet, a visit to a friend’s house, or a journey to a pet show, public transport can help get you and your pet where you need to go.

Fur Fare

By far the most used way of public transporting in the UK is catching the bus. Picture your dog’s wonderful work of window, nose-art making its way across town for all to see as the bus passes through its designated routes. Or even your cat popping its head up to say hello, accepting of a head scratch from your nearest fellow passenger - what a purrfect interaction. If your pet is already acclimated to bus rides, these journeys can become a familiar and enjoyable part of their routine, offering them a chance to observe the world from a different vantage point.

However, common questions arise, such as:

Are service dogs allowed on buses?

It is written in the Public Service Vehicles Regulations 2022 that all service dogs can not be rejected from boarding and traveling on public transport, subject to there being adequate space.

Are pets allowed on buses?

It is important to remember that, as there are many different bus operators in the UK, each company has its own policies and views on allowing pets on board.

The largest operators in the UK are:

• Transport for London (TfL) who are pet-friendly, at the driver's discretion, and does not charge a fare.
• Arriva whose policy states that they do allow dogs on board, at the discretion of the driver. They too do not charge a fare.
• Go-Ahead Group: Yes, they do allow dogs and small pets at no cost, according to their FAQ.
• Mobico Group: As they do not have a publicly available pet policy, we reached out to them for a response.

• Stagecoach: Once again, their policy is to allow to dogs and cats, at the descretion of the driver.
• National Express do not permit pets, with the exception of service dogs.

It is always advisable to check with your local bus operators ahead of your journey as some bus companies state that pets other than dogs must be in a suitable pet carrier.

Can dogs sit on bus seats?

Dogs typically aren't permitted to sit on bus seats. This rule helps keep the seats clean and comfortable for all passengers. Dogs should be kept on a leash or in a carrier and remain on the floor near your feet or in the aisle. However, the rules can differ among bus companies, so it's recommended to check with the specific company you're traveling with. Exceptions are often made for assistance dogs. Remember, these rules can change, so always check the most current policies.

Our range of Pet Carriers, such as the Ibiyaya Adventure Cat Carrier, can help your canine, feline, or any other kind of pet, on their adventure.

Pet carriers are also great for feline friends who love the feeling and sights of the great outdoors. Maybe you’ve got a routine check-up for your reptilian rascal? - there’s a pet carrier to suit you too.

Train Trussle

A common query is Are dogs allowed on trains in the UK?

Yes, dogs are allowed on the train in the UK. Each passenger can bring up to two dogs or other small domestic animals for free. Dogs must be kept on a lead or in a pet carrier throughout the journey. However, dogs are not allowed on the seats as they are reserved for passengers. If you plan to bring more than two animals, you may need to pay a fee and should check with the Train Operating Company responsible for your service. Please note that these rules are subject to change, so it's always best to check the most current policies.

Taxi? Taxi!

There are an abundance of taxi firms in the UK, and so each will have their own pet policy. It is always advisable to ask them when you call to book your taxi. Some taxi firms have dedicated drivers who are pet-friendly, some will have a strict 'no pets allowed' rule.

What is a pet taxi?

To alleviate this worry of finding the right cab for you, dedicated services in the UK exists, simply called a Pet Taxi; again, there are many. These are usually in the form of a van equipped with specialist travel cages to keep the animal passengers safe and secure.

They are governed by the Department for Evironment, Food & Rural Affairs (D.E.F.R.A) who state Pet Taxi operators should be Type 2 Authorised for long journeys.

D.E.F.R.A define a long journey as anything over 65km. 

When transporting any animal in the UK, commercially or privately, you must adhere to D.E.F.R.A's travel safety guidelines.

Furthermore, pet taxis should be regularly cleaned using DEFRA approved disinfectants, such as those available at Safe4.

British Furways

Jet-setting off to lands overseas is an appealing prospect, but preparing us and our travel buddy is essential. From passports to vaccinations, the list is long!

Like humans, pets need a form of passport to be able to travel too - for which the pet travel rules changed on January 2021. This is made possible by the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). There are different rules dependant whether you are travelling within the EU or not.

Travelling within the EU and Northern Ireland with a dog, cat, or ferret?

Your pet will need the usual health precautions such as;

• an owners microchip,
• a rabies vaccination,
• a tapeworm treatment.

A pet passport or health certificate is also a requirement - which can be obtained from a veterinarian.

These are valid to enable you to travel for 10 days* from administration - proof of which you will need to provide when you arrive at your desitination country, also called a travellers' point of entry.

*These rules also apply to assistance dogs too, and each country has its own rules - more of which can be found on Gov.uk.

Travelling to a non-EU country requires an export health certificate (EHC).

Travelling by airliner naturally brings questions:

Are airports pet friendly?

Yes, and no. The major airports in the UK have their own policies when it comes to pets - some have designated areas, some only allow assitance dogs.

Important regional airports in the UK and their pet policies:

1. Manchester Airport:
   - Pet Policy: Manchester Airport allows pets to travel in the cabin or as cargo. They have a designated pet lounge for passengers traveling with pets.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are welcome at Manchester Airport. Passengers with assistance dogs can find relief areas and assistance services.

2. Birmingham Airport:
   - Pet Policy: Birmingham Airport permits pets to travel in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a specific pet lounge.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are allowed at Birmingham Airport. Passengers with assistance dogs can access relief areas and receive support.

3. Liverpool Airport:
   - Pet Policy: Liverpool John Lennon Airport provides pet-friendly services. They have a pet lounge for travelers with pets.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are welcome at Liverpool Airport. Passengers with assistance dogs can use designated areas.

4. Bristol Airport:
   - Pet Policy: Bristol Airport allows pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a dedicated pet lounge.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are permitted at Bristol Airport. Facilities are available for assistance dog users.

5. Glasgow International Airport:
   - Pet Policy: Glasgow Airport accommodates pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a separate pet lounge.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are welcome at Glasgow Airport. Facilities are provided for assistance dog users.

6. Leeds Bradford Airport:
   - Pet Policy: Leeds Bradford Airport allows pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a specific pet lounge.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are permitted at Leeds Bradford Airport. Facilities are available for assistance dog users.

7. Edinburgh Airport:
   - Pet Policy: Edinburgh Airport permits pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a dedicated pet lounge.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are welcome at Edinburgh Airport. Facilities are provided for assistance dog users.

8. Newcastle Airport:
   - Pet Policy: Newcastle Airport allows pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a specific pet lounge.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are permitted at Newcastle Airport. Facilities are available for assistance dog users.

Smaller airports:

9. Exeter Airport:
   - Pet Policy: Exeter Airport allows pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a dedicated pet lounge.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are welcome at Exeter Airport. Facilities are provided for assistance dog users.

10. Newquay Airport:
    - Pet Policy: Newquay Airport permits pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a specific pet lounge.
    - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are allowed at Newquay Airport. Facilities are available for assistance dog users.

11. Southampton Airport:
    - Pet Policy: Southampton Airport allows pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a separate pet lounge.
    - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are welcome at Southampton Airport. Facilities are provided for assistance dog users.

12. St Mary's Airport (Scilly Isles):
    - Pet Policy: St Mary's Airport permits pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a dedicated pet lounge.
    - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are permitted at St Mary's Airport. Facilities are available for assistance dog users.

13. Stornoway Airport:
    - Pet Policy: Stornoway Airport allows pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a specific pet lounge.
    - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are allowed at Stornoway Airport. Facilities are available for assistance dog users.

14. Cardiff Airport:
    - Pet Policy: Cardiff Airport accommodates pets in the cabin or as cargo. They do not have a separate pet lounge.
    - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are allowed.

15. Isle of Man Airport:
   - Pet Policy: Pet animals cannot be landed directly from an EU country to the Isle of Man by private air transport or private boat. If traveling by air, pet animals can only land in the Isle of Man via a DEFRA approved pet transporter.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are allowed in all areas of Isle of Man Airport.
  

Can pets be brought on planes?

 Well, let's find out, there are 12 main airline operators based in the UK:

1. Aer Lingus UK:
   - Pet Policy: Aer Lingus does not allow pets to travel in the cabin on flights to/from the United States. Additionally, pets are not allowed to travel under Aer Lingus' pet cabin program on flights to/from the United Kingdom or South Africa, although exceptions may be made for certified service animals.
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Recognized service dogs are allowed in the cabin.

2. BA CityFlyer and BA EuroFlyer (British Airways subsidiaries):
   - Pet Policy: Unfortunately, British Airways, including BA CityFlyer and BA EuroFlyer, doesn't allow pets to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage. Only recognized assistance dogs are allowed to fly in the cabin, free of charge.

3. British Airways (BA):
   - Pet Policy: Recognized service dogs are allowed in the cabin, as well as other pets up to 6 kg. Other pets must be transported in a waterproof bag or cage with maximum dimensions of 20 x 30 x 20 cm (7.5 x 11.5 x 7.5 in).
   - Assistance Dog Policy: Assistance dogs are permitted in the cabin.

4. Eastern Airways:
   - Pet Policy: Eastern Airways does not permit any pets on board their flights, other than guide dogs for passengers with disabilities.

5. easyJet:
   - Pet Policy: easyJet does not allow pets in the cabin. Only recognized assistance dogs are permitted.

6. Jet2.com:
   - Pet Policy: Jet2.com does not allow pets in the cabin. Only recognized assistance dogs are allowed.

7. Loganair:
   - Pet Policy: Loganair allows pets to travel as checked baggage on most domestic flights within the common travel area of the UK, including the Channel Islands, Isle of Man, and the Republic of Ireland. Only dogs and cats are permitted, with a weight limit of 32 kg including their crate.

8. Norse Atlantic UK:
   - Pet Policy: Norse do not have a publicly available policy and so, again, we reached out. They confirmed: ‘We only allow certified trained service dogs onboard our aircrafts.’

9. Ryanair UK:
   - Pet Policy: Ryanair does not allow pets in the cabin. Only recognized assistance dogs are permitted.

10. Virgin Atlantic:
    - Pet Policy: Virgin Atlantic previously flew pets as cargo, but this service is temporarily unavailable.

11. Wizz Air UK
    - Pet Policy: Wizz Air UK specifically excludes emotional service dogs. Only recognized assistance dogs are allowed in the cabin.

A government document provides a list of Community Air Carriers and Airports who are legally bound to accept with disabilities and their assistance dogs.

For a list of pet-friendly Commercial airlines you should check the Gov.uk website.

Please note that policies may change, so it's essential to verify with the airline directly before your travel. Safe travels! 🐾✈️

D.E.F.R.A approved pet carriers are defined by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).

DEFRA-approved pet carriers must meet specific size requirements to ensure the safety and comfort of pets during travel. While the exact dimensions vary from passenger airline to passenger airline, here are some general guidelines:

Carrier Dimensions: Most approved carriers have dimensions that allow them to fit comfortably under an airliner seat.

Each aircraft’s seats differ from one another so you should obtain this information from your chosen airline.

However, we took the dimensions of the under-seat spaces from each U.K. based passenger airliner and came up with the average:

Width: 47.89 cm
Height: 34.56 cm
Depth: 20.22 cm

Pet Weight Limit: The weight limit for pets in the cabin typically ranges from 6 kg to 8 kg (approximately 13 lbs to 18 lbs).

Planning a trip on a passenger airliner? Checkout our Airline-approved Pet Carriers.

Sea and Biscuits

Maybe you're more inclined to keep your feet (or paws) on the ground so to speak, and you prefer a gentle ferry trip to a nearby island, such as Isle of Man, or Isle of Wight. The joy of discovering new shores awaits you, but:

Are pets allowed on ferrys?

There are currently 45 different ferry companies in the UK, and each one will have their own policy - which could be route dependant.

However, the main ferry operators in the UK are:

1. P&O Ferries:
    - P&O Ferries operates across the English Channel, North Sea, and Irish Sea.
    - Pet Policy: Depending on the route, pets may need to remain in the car during the crossing, with no passenger access.

2. Brittany Ferries:
    - Brittany Ferries serves various routes between the UK and France.
    - Pet Policy: Pets are allowed in designated areas on board, and some routes offer pet-friendly cabins.
  
3. DFDS Seaways:
    - DFDS operates routes between Dover and Calais, Dover and Dunkirk, and Newhaven and Dieppe.
    - Pet Policy: Pets are allowed in specific areas on board.
  
4. Stena Line:
    - Stena Line connects the UK with Ireland and other European destinations.
    - Pet Policy: Pets are allowed in designated areas on board.
  
5. Irish Ferries:
    - Irish Ferries operates between the Irish Sea and Celtic Sea.
    - Pet Policy: Pets are allowed in specific areas on board.
  
6. Condor Ferries:
    - Condor Ferries serve the Channel Islands, connecting the UK with Guernsey, Jersey, and St. Malo (France).
    - Pet Policy: Pets are allowed in designated areas on board.
 
Please note that policies may vary based on the specific route and type of ferry. Always check with the ferry operator directly for the most up-to-date information before traveling with your pet.

(credit: P&O Ferries)

Can dogs go on ferry to Isle of Wight?

Certainly! Not only can dogs go to Isle of Wight, the countries' dedicated ferry service to and from Southampton in the UK, Red Funnel Ferries, has their own pets on board policy.

Not only is it free of charge: Taking your pet on board won’t cost you a penny. Red Funnel understands that our furry friends are part of the family.

But they have an in-car cption: If your pet is comfortable in the car, they can stay there during the crossing. No need to leave them behind!

They also have designated pet areas: For those who prefer to be closer to their pets, designated pet areas are available on the A and B decks.

You do not need a Pet Passport, or Animal Health Certificate (which replaced the Pet Passport in 2021) to travel to the Isle of Wight with your pet.

For more Isle of Wight pet travel information, you can refer to the Wight Link website.

Taking pets to the Isle of Man is indeed possible without a passport. Pet owners can travel freely between the UK and the Isle of Man without the need for a pet passport. It's great news for those planning to explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of this unique island destination. So pack your bags, leash up your furry companion, and embark on an adventure to the Isle of Man!

The Isle of Man's ferry service, operated by Steam Packet Company, have several different options for traversing your pet with you. Some options are free, some options require a fee. Ultimatley, passengers travelling with pets should make their choice from the options provided. 

Conclusion

Travelling with a pet doesn't always mean jet-setting across the globe, or cruising along the waves. In fact, for our sidekicks, a trip to a different city or even a different part of town can be as exciting and novel as an international journey is for us.

So, when we talk about 'travelling' with our pets, let's redefine the scale. A 'national' trip could be a visit to a new city or town. An 'international' journey could be as simple as exploring a new park or trail.

Remember, it's not about where you've come from or the distance covered; it's about where you're at in the moment and the new experiences and adventures that come along the way, or when you've reched your destination. So pack up those pet essentials and get ready to explore your local 'globe' with your four-legged companion!

Here at Silver Circle Pets, we are aiming to become your all-encompasing best pet travel solutions retailer. Whether you're planning a road trip, a ferry adventure, or a flight with your furry companions, we've got you covered. From cosy pet carriers to smooth pet strollers, and pet travel system essentials, we're here to make your pet's journey safe, comfortable, and full of tail-wagging excitement. Welcome aboard! 🐾