Yes, dogs can absolutely travel on the Eurotunnel (LeShuttle) as it's a popular pet-friendly way to get to Europe, allowing them to stay with you in your vehicle for the short journey, but you must meet strict requirements like microchipping, rabies vaccination, and having correct documentation (like an Animal Health Certificate) before checking in at the dedicated pet reception for inspection.
Get a pet travel document from your vet. The type of document you need will depend on the country you're travelling from. If you have a dog, you may need a vet to give them tapeworm treatment. Your dog must be treated no less than 24 hours before (and no more than 5 days before) you arrive in Great Britain.
The "7-second rule" for dogs is a simple test to check if pavement is too hot for their paws: place the back of your hand on the surface, and if you can't comfortably hold it there for a full 7 seconds, it's too hot for your dog, who can suffer severe burns on hot asphalt or concrete. This rule helps prevent paw injuries by encouraging walks in cooler morning or evening hours when the ground temperature is safer for pets.
No, Eurostar does not allow dogs or pets on routes to/from the UK (London), but they are permitted on continental routes (France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany) with specific rules, and guide/assistance dogs have different policies. For London routes, you'll need alternative travel like LeShuttle (Eurotunnel) or ferries; for continental travel, small pets (under 6kg) in carriers travel free, while larger dogs need a €30 ticket, must be muzzled, and you must check with passengers.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on UK trains, usually up to two for free, but they must be kept on a lead or in a carrier, off the seats, and not obstruct aisles, ensuring they don't inconvenience other passengers. Assistance dogs are always welcome, and while pets can travel, their comfort and safety (and that of others) are paramount, with specific rules varying slightly by Train Operating Company (TOC).
The "Rule of Three" is a guideline for helping your new cat/dog adjust to their new home and family. The rule suggests that it takes 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to adjust to your routine, and 3 months (or longer) for them to feel completely comfortable and “at home”.
An hour for a dog isn't a fixed "dog minute" but feels longer because of their higher metabolism and focus on routine; an hour can feel like a long time when bored, but they also perceive time through scents and body cues, making short waits feel longer or longer periods feel shorter depending on stimulation, though a simple (but less accurate) idea is a ratio of about 7 dog minutes to 1 human minute.
Most of the time, dogs travel quite well, without needing medication. Some dogs, on the other hand, experience tremendous stress when subjected to air travel. Consult your veterinarian to create the best travel plan for your dog if he does not travel well.
They will be able to schedule your appointments appropriately and answer any queries you have along the way. How much is a pet passport? Most applicants end up spending around £150 to £250 on the process of getting a pet passport.
While some breeds like Border Collies, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Papillons are especially easy to train, all dogs can benefit from structured training programs.
The Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is your pet's passport to Europe. This essential document must be: Issued at least 21 days after the rabies vaccination. Issued within 10 days of your departure date.
The Eurotunnel does allow pets. The Eurotunnel is a train service where cars and trucks cross the English Channel. If you don't have a car, that's where Le Pet Express can help!
EasyJet's pet policy is very strict: no pets are allowed on their flights except for registered guide and assistance dogs, as they do not carry live animals in the cabin or as checked baggage. Passengers with registered assistance dogs must ensure they have all necessary travel documents, and the dog must comply with destination country regulations and fit within the space at the passenger's feet.
The "7-7-7 Rule" for dogs is a puppy socialization guideline, suggesting that before 7 weeks old (though often adapted for later, post-vaccination stages), a puppy should experience 7 new surfaces, 7 different people, and 7 new objects/challenges to build confidence and prevent fear, fostering a well-adjusted adult dog. Key elements include varied textures (grass, carpet, tile), meeting people of different ages/appearances, and gentle exposure to things like toys, crating, sounds, and simple obstacles (steps, tunnels).
As you leave and go about your day, your scent gradually fades. By the time you return, the intensity of your scent has diminished. Dogs can gauge this change in scent strength to predict when you will come back. Horowitz also highlights that the movement of scents can inform dogs about past and future events.
Dogs do too. They do need proper rest to stay in good shape—both their body and their emotions depend on it. If your pup means the world to you, putting a basic dog bedtime routine in place is something that can quietly make a big difference.
“The 2:1 crate rule says that for every two hours a dog spends inside their crate, they should spend one hour out of the crate,” explains Lane. “For puppies, especially those still potty training, this is generally a good rule of thumb.
How many dogs are you allowed to keep in your home?
There is no statutory maximum number of dogs that you may have, as it will depend on the size of your home and the size of the dogs, but many Council's use 6 as their 'rule of thumb' maximum.
Poo bags: hopefully your dog won't need to go while you're on the bus or train. Make sure to give them a chance to go beforehand. But it's always good to be well stocked with poo bags. You can get Dogs Trust yellow bags from our online shop.
No, Eurostar does not allow dogs or pets on routes to/from the UK (London), but they are permitted on continental routes (France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany) with specific rules, and guide/assistance dogs have different policies. For London routes, you'll need alternative travel like LeShuttle (Eurotunnel) or ferries; for continental travel, small pets (under 6kg) in carriers travel free, while larger dogs need a €30 ticket, must be muzzled, and you must check with passengers.
