To bring your dog to the UK, make sure it meets these requirements:
- Microchip: Your dog needs a 15-digit ISO compliant microchip.
- Rabies vaccination: The vaccination should be done at least 21 days but not more than 12 months before travel.
- Rabies blood test: A blood test is required at least 30 days after vaccination to show antibodies to rabies.
- Tapeworm treatment: Your dog must be treated for tapeworm within 1 to 5 days before arrival in the UK.
- Pet passport: Obtain a pet passport from your vet, which proves your dog meets the entry requirements.
- Export health certificate (EHC): Get an EHC from your vet, endorsed by the Sri Lankan Ministry of Agriculture.
- Flight and transport: Book a pet-friendly airline and an IATA-compliant travel container.
- Airport arrival: Arrive at the airport at least 4 hours before the flight for customs and vet inspections.
- Boarding the flight: Once cleared by customs, you can bring your dog on the flight to the UK.
Estimated costs for bringing a dog to the UK:
- Pet passport: £120
- EHC: £50
- Tapeworm treatment: £20
- Pet travel container: £100
- Flight: £500
- Customs clearance: £50
Estimated total cost: ~ £900
Note: If you plan to bring your pet on a student visa, be aware that starting from January 2024, some students may not be allowed to bring dependents. Since pets are considered dependents for the purposes of student visas in the UK, consider applying for the September intake or exploring other visa options.