International Pet Transport to Edinburgh

Pet dogs and cats travelling to Edinburgh from Australia fly on Qatar Airways via Doha. The flight time is approximately 24 hours. Petraveller will need about 30 days before the date of the flight for compliance.

International Pet Travel Requirements for Cats and Dogs

• Airline-approved pet travel crate
• Annual vaccination
• Customs clearance
• Australian Government accredited veterinary consultation
• Australian Government export permit
• Australian Government health certificate
• European Union health certificate
• Microchip
• Rabies vaccination
• Tapeworm vaccination

International Pet Relocation Arrival

Pets will be released to pet parents after the customs clearance formalities are complete. The process takes about two to three hours in Edinburgh, and Petraveller has a step-by-step guide to help pet parents navigate the process effortlessly.

Frequently asked questions

Is my dog on the banned breeds list?

The Dangerous Dogs Act in the United Kingdom makes it illegal to own and import certain aggressive dog breeds. Please check if your dog is on the list of banned breeds in the United Kingdom before making travel plans. The following breeds and their crosses are prohibited from import: Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Pit Bull Terrier, and Japanese Tosa. Read more 

Do I need a Transfer of Residency before travelling with my pet to Edinburgh?

Pets travelling to the United Kingdom for non-commercial purposes qualify for transfer of residency relief. Pet parents with ToR are allowed some relief from import duties and charges when they bring their pets into the United Kingdom.

Local Pet Requirements

All pet dogs in Edinburgh must be microchipped and vaccinated. Dogs must be well-cared for and receive veterinary attention whenever required, as specified in the Animal Welfare Act of 2006. Dogs must also wear a collar and be on a lead when in public.   

Pet dogs in Edinburgh must stay clear from livestock and avoid worrying them. Farmers can take legal action against pet owners if they find dogs bothering their livestock. Remember to train your dog to be quiet; pet owners with loud pets that bark all the time can face fines and prosecution.

Living in Edinburgh: A Canine Perspective

Edinburgh has numerous dog-friendly parks and gardens for doggies to run around and socialise. Doggies in Edinburgh can enjoy a leisurely walk along the Royal Mile or stroll around the Princes Street Gardens, an iconic garden in the centre of the city. Another favourite garden is Holyrood Park, a hit among children and dogs. You can hike up to the famed Arthur’s Seat from Holyrood Park with your doggy.

For doggies that prefer an off-lead experience, head to the Meadows on the south of Edinburgh. The Meadows is the garden of choice for students, children, parents of young kids, athletes, and of course, dogs!

Did you know?

Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s most celebrated dog, has been immortalised with a commemorative statue in the city. Legend has it that Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier, spent 14 years guarding his owner’s grave till his own death in 1872.

The Greyfriars Bobby Fountain is at the corner of Candlemaker’s Row and George IV Bridge in Edinburgh. A popular tourist attraction, the fountain is now a Category A listed building.

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is the second-largest financial centre in the United Kingdom and the second-most visited tourist city in the UK. Voted consistently on the best cities in the world list, Edinburgh hosts the world’s largest arts festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, in August every year. With over 100 parks and gardens, Edinburgh is one of the greenest cities in Europe.