In a word – complicated. Rules about flying with animals vary from country to country and airline to airline, so you should make sure everything is organised before you travel.

We suggest you contact the authorities in the country heading to as well as asking your airline directly and also get advice from a specialist pet travel agency.

For passengers wanting to take a pet with them from the UK, the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) can help with your questions – including information about the Pet Travel Scheme (which lets vaccinated and micro-chipped animals travel without having to be quarantined). Call them on +44 (0)20 7904 6347 or Fax +44 (0)20 7904 6395 or www.defra.gov.uk.

Rules apply to all animals – even guide and hearing dogs – although some airlines will let these travel in the cabin (providing they comply with all the Pet Travel Scheme rules).

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