The import of live animals into the United Kingdom is strictly controlled in order to keep the United Kingdom free of rabies. There are severe penalties, including imprisonment, for smugglers.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), however, offers a scheme which permits owners of domestic cats, dogs and ferrets to bring their animals into the UK without undergoing a period of quarantine.

Before deciding to move away or back to the UK with your pet read our specific guidance: