Given the current situation in the Middle East, many people are trying to return to Great Britain as quickly as possible.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), an executive agency sponsored by Defra and the Welsh and Scottish Governments, have told us that pet owners returning from affected areas can bring their cats, dogs and ferrets with them if they follow the existing rules on pet movement.
What should I do if my pets don’t meet the rules?
APHA acknowledges that people returning in a hurry from affected areas in the Middle East may not have time to ensure their pets have the correct health preparations to travel. They say that if pets don’t comply with the import requirements, they can be brought to Great Britain under an emergency import licence issued by APHA. If an owner wishes to travel with a non-compliant pet, they should follow the guidance on this UK government web site:
Put your pet in rabies quarantine
How can I get more information?
For more information, pet owners returning from affected areas in the Middle East can contact the APHA imports team:
- By email at imports@apha.gov.uk
- By phone on 03000 200 301
Press 3 for “all other enquiries”
Then press 2 for “APHA”
Then listen to the options and select ”pet travel helpline”
What should I do if I’m travelling with an assistance dog?
If you’re travelling with a recognised assistance dog, APHA advises you to contact the APHA imports team directly using the details above.
How will I know if anything changes?
The information above was provided to us by APHA on 13 March 2026. If they notify us of any changes to pet travel operations as a result of the ongoing Middle East conflict, we will share the information on the Animalcouriers blog.
Wonderful post. You all provide excellent services.
Thanks Tim – confusing times for many, worse for others. Hope Germany is treating you well!
Thank you for this important post. I recommend your services to people all the time, even from across the pond.
It must be very stressful to have to leave suddenly with a pet. When the war in Ukraine started, I saw many photos of people escaping with their pets.
Wee cannot even fathom what it wuud bee like to bee inn a war torn area let alone to bee seppyrated! Wee glad THE U-Kay have alternaet plan so Hu’manss can get their 4-leggedss out safelee an back home. Wee send POPTP an purrayerss to efurryone afected. Keep up THE pawtastick werk Miss Annie an Coureerss…
nose kissess BellaDharma an {{{hugss}}} BellaSita Mum
Thank you, as always, for your thoughtful and informative posts.
Your work has been, and continues to be, a blessing for all creatures great and small.
My heart breaks for all those feeling panic and stress in the areas affected by this war. I can’t even imagine the fear. We all love our pets so much. Wishing safe travels to everyone with loved ones and pets escaping to safety. I’m thinking your info here will help a great deal K
A highly informative guide covering important considerations for travelling with pets. The practical advice and detailed information help pet owners prepare effectively and avoid unnecessary complications.
Thank you Diana, it’s sometimes hard to find this information sp we try to provide as much as we can to make your decisions easier.