So Why use Professionals to Move My Dog Safely to France from UK
If you’re searching for how to move my dog to France from UK, planning carefully is the key to a smooth and stress-free journey. Taking your dog abroad involves more than just travel; it includes legal requirements, paperwork, and ensuring your pet’s comfort along the way. With the right preparation, road travel offers one of the safest and calmest ways to move dogs between the UK and France.
Entry Requirements for France
Before leaving the UK, you must make sure your dog meets all French entry rules. Following these requirements avoids delays at the border and guarantees safe travel.
- Microchip: Your dog must be fitted with a registered microchip before any vaccinations. This ensures your pet’s identity can be confirmed at all checks.
- Rabies vaccination: A rabies jab is required after microchipping and must be given at least 21 days before travel. Boosters must also remain valid.
- Animal Health Certificate: The AHC replaces the old EU Pet Passport for UK travellers. It must be issued by an official vet within ten days of travel and is valid for one trip into the EU and onward travel for up to four months.
- Tapeworm treatment: Dogs do not need treatment to enter France, but it is mandatory before returning to the UK. It must be administered by a vet between 24 and 120 hours before re-entry.
Getting these steps completed well in advance helps ensure your dog’s travel is fully compliant.
Preparing Your Dog for the Journey
Travelling by road is often more comfortable for dogs than air travel, as it allows them to remain in a familiar and calm environment. Good preparation makes the experience even better.
- Familiarise with the crate: Introduce the crate early and make it a comfortable space with bedding and toys.
- Feeding routine: Feed light meals before travel and provide regular water breaks. Avoid heavy feeding just before departure.
- Pack essentials: Bring food, bowls, medication, and cleaning items.
- Vet check: Arrange a veterinary visit to confirm your dog’s health and collect the Animal Health Certificate.
These small steps help reduce anxiety and keep your dog comfortable during the trip.
Travel Routes from UK to France
The most popular and convenient route for dogs travelling to France is by road using the Le Shuttle pet service. The 35-minute crossing from Folkestone to Calais allows pets to stay inside the vehicle with their handler, reducing stress.
Once in Calais, the journey continues by road to your chosen French destination. For many pet owners, this door-to-door approach provides a safe and straightforward experience. Travel times vary depending on where you are heading—Paris, Lille, or the south of France—but regular rest stops for water and short walks make it manageable.
Ferries are another option, though some operators have restrictions on pet areas. Most owners prefer the simplicity of Le Shuttle for smoother crossings.
Why Use Professional Pet Relocation Services?
While it is possible to travel independently, professional pet transport services make the process easier and safer. They handle documentation, logistics, and your dog’s comfort throughout the journey.
Advantages include:
- Vehicles fitted with secure, climate-controlled travel areas.
- Trained handlers who monitor your dog during the trip.
- Scheduled stops for food, hydration, and exercise.
- Proper management of paperwork to prevent border issues.
- Real-time updates so you know your dog is safe and calm.
Professionals reduce the stress of planning and make sure every requirement is met correctly.
Local and International Pet Travel
Moving a dog to France often involves both local and international travel. Services like Kent Pet Taxi can collect pets within the UK, while Europe Pet Taxi manages the road journey to France.
Using a single company for the entire process keeps care consistent and avoids unnecessary handovers. This ensures your dog remains under the same team’s supervision throughout the trip.
Cost of Dog Transport from UK to France
The total cost of moving a dog depends on several factors, including distance, paperwork, and care requirements.
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Distance | Longer routes increase fuel and time costs. |
| Number of Pets | More pets require additional space and handling. |
| Paperwork | Vet visits for AHC and vaccinations add to the total. |
| Travel Route | Le Shuttle and ferry prices may differ. |
| Special Requirements | Medication, special feeding, or overnight stays can raise the price. |
Planning early helps you manage costs and confirm availability with trusted providers.
Travel Tips for Dog Owners
- Carry printed copies of the AHC, vaccination records, and microchip information.
- Label your dog’s crate with your name and contact number.
- Bring familiar items like blankets or toys to help your dog feel at ease.
- Schedule regular rest breaks during the journey.
- Stay flexible with timings in case of traffic or weather changes.
These small details make a noticeable difference to your dog’s comfort and confidence.
Book with Europe To UK Pet Taxi
At Europe To UK Pet Taxi, we specialise in safe and reliable pet relocations across Europe, including France. Our experienced handlers manage every stage of the journey, from paperwork and route planning to care during travel.
If you’re ready to move my dog to France from UK, contact us today for a tailored quote. With our road-based transport service, your dog will travel safely, comfortably, and in full compliance with all EU regulations.