Flying your pet from the UK to the USA involves strict entry rules, CDC paperwork, and airline-specific procedures. Petair can manage every step including veterinary preparation, forms, and airline bookings to ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation.
Pet Entry Requirements (CDC and USDA)
- From August 1 2024, all dogs entering the USA must be at least six months old and microchipped.
- Dogs that have only been in low risk or rabies free countries such as the UK for the past six months require the CDC Dog Import Form. This is valid for six months and can be reused as long as the dog does not travel to a high risk country.
- Dogs from high risk rabies countries must meet extra rules including a US issued rabies vaccination certificate or USDA endorsed health certificate. They must also arrive through one of six designated US airports: Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, New York JFK, Philadelphia, or Washington Dulles.
Microchip and Rabies Vaccination
- Your pet must have an ISO 11784 or ISO 11785 compliant microchip. The chip must be scanned before any vaccination is given.
- Rabies vaccination must be valid and given within the timeframe set by US authorities. Some US states require the rabies shot to be between 30 days and one year old before entry.
Health Certificates and Paperwork
- A Health Certificate, also called a Fit to Fly certificate, must be issued by a government-accredited vet within 10 days of travel.
- The certificate must include the microchip number, rabies vaccination details, and confirmation that the pet is fit to fly.
- Pets from the UK, considered low risk, do not need to go into quarantine on arrival in the USA.
Airlines and Travel Options
- No UK or US airlines currently allow pets to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage on direct flights between the UK and the USA. Pets must travel in the aircraft hold as air cargo.
- Some European airlines such as KLM, Lufthansa, and Air France allow small pets under 8 kg including their crate to travel in the cabin from the UK to Europe. This can make it possible to connect to onward flights to the USA.
Travel Planning Tips
- Book well in advance as flights with pet spaces are limited.
- Allow extra time at check-in for paperwork inspection and any necessary health checks.
- Choose routes with the least number of connections to reduce travel time for your pet.
| Requirement | Rules |
| Pet Age | At least six months old |
| Microchip | ISO compliant, scanned before vaccination |
| Rabies Vaccination | Valid within US accepted timeframe |
| CDC Dog Import Form | Required for dogs from low risk countries |
| Health Certificate | Issued within 10 days of travel by accredited vet |
| Airline Options | Pets in hold only, no cabin or checked baggage UK to USA |
| Transit Options | Some European airlines allow cabin travel on connecting flights |
| Quarantine | Not required for UK pets meeting entry rules |
| Entry Airports for High Risk | LAX, ATL, MIA, JFK, PHL, IAD |
Petair can prepare all paperwork, arrange crate supply, book the most suitable flights, and coordinate with airlines and customs officials. Contact us today to ensure your pet’s trip to the USA is safe, compliant, and as comfortable as possible.
Import your pet from the USA
