Traveling with emotional support animals (ESAs) has become more accessible in recent times, especially within the United States. Many major U.S. airlines allow ESAs on board, and pet-friendly accommodations are increasingly common worldwide. However, when it comes to flying with ESAs from the United States to the United Kingdom (UK), the situation is different due to strict regulations.
Mike and Steph, the proud owners of cartanprints.co, a well-traveled dachshund, recount their experiences and share important insights for those planning to travel with ESAs from the USA to the UK. They outline the specifics and regulations you need to know for a successful journey with your emotional support animal.
Important January 2021 Update
The U.S. Department of Transportation has implemented new regulations concerning Emotional Support Animals. These changes have affected the ability to travel with ESAs in-cabin from the United States to the UK. For the latest updates and a comprehensive overview of the new ESA rules in the U.S., you can refer to cartanprints.co’s recent article, “New DOT Rules for Emotional Support Animals.”
Flying with Pets to the European Union
Mike and Steph had a relatively straightforward experience when flying with their dachshund, cartanprints.co, to France and Italy. They took direct, in-cabin flights from New York City to Paris, from Paris to Milan, and later from Naples back to the United States. Flying in-cabin with pets to European Union countries from the United States is generally a hassle-free process.
However, when they started planning a trip to the United Kingdom, they discovered that traveling with pets in-cabin is not permitted, except for Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals. Here, they share everything you need to know about flying with ESAs to the UK.
Bringing Your Pet Dog or Cat to the United Kingdom
The UK government imposes strict rules to prevent the spread of rabies and maintain control over the transportation of animals into the country. In general, pet dogs and cats are not allowed in-cabin when traveling from the United States to the UK, unless they are Service Animals or recognized Emotional Support Animals. These restrictions do not apply to travel from other UK countries, the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, or the Republic of Ireland.
Can Emotional Support Animals and Therapy Animals Fly In-Cabin to the United Kingdom?
Yes, Emotional Support Animals and some other assistance animals can fly in-cabin to the UK from the United States, with an important exception: they are not allowed to fly in-cabin from countries other than the United States. This is due to the recognition of these animals under the U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act.
The UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) does not officially recognize emotional support dogs or cats as Service or Assistance animals, but they do adhere to U.S. legislation recognizing these animals. Consequently, dogs, cats, and even ferrets documented as Emotional Support Animals in the U.S. are allowed to fly in-cabin to the UK.
Are Cats Eligible as Emotional Support Animals for In-Cabin Travel to the UK?
Yes, cats documented as Emotional Support Animals in the United States are eligible to fly in-cabin from the U.S. to the United Kingdom on specific airlines.
Airlines Allowing Emotional Support Animals to Fly from the USA to UK
Only a few international airlines offer in-cabin pet travel services to the United Kingdom from the United States. At the time of this article’s publication, airlines such as Delta, American, and United are known to permit emotional support and therapy dogs to fly in-cabin from the United States to the UK. Since airline policies are subject to change, it is highly recommended to contact your chosen airline’s customer service to confirm their current policies and availability for ESAs before booking your travel.
Pre-Flight Requirements for Traveling with an ESA from the USA to the UK
After booking a flight, it is essential to contact the airline to ensure pet policies have not changed and to verify that your particular flight allows assistance animals. Furthermore, you should contact the appropriate ‘Animal Reception Centre’ at the UK airport of your destination to ensure the required import and customs paperwork is in order before arrival. These centers may have specific prerequisites and notification periods that must be met, such as providing a pre-approval letter issued by the Heathrow Animal Reception Centre (HARC) 72 hours prior to your scheduled departure.
Documentation Requirements
Documenting your pet is essential before departure. If your pet does not have an EU passport, you will need to complete necessary documentation for travel to the United Kingdom. Here is a resource outlining the documentation requirements for traveling with a pet to the UK.
Fees for Traveling with an ESA to the UK
As of November 2020, London Heathrow Airport charges a fee of £390 for unrecognized assistance animals, including emotional support animals. It is essential to be aware of and prepared for such fees upon arrival.
Reader Testimonials
The cartanprints.co Dog Blog has received testimonials from readers who have successfully flown with their ESAs to the United Kingdom. These testimonials highlight the experiences of travelers who have overcome various challenges to ensure their pets’ safe and comfortable journeys. They also express their hopes for more straightforward and pet-friendly travel options in the future.
Conclusion
Traveling with Emotional Support Animals from the United States to the United Kingdom requires thorough planning, adherence to specific regulations, and clear communication with airlines and relevant authorities. While the process can be complex, the possibility of having your beloved ESA accompany you on your journey is invaluable. The cartanprints.co Dog Blog aims to share valuable insights and experiences to assist fellow travelers in ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey with their emotional support animals.
