Travel

Travelling With Your Pet - Pet Friendly Serviced Apartments

02 January 2020|4 minute read

Illustration of two dogs and a cat with travel suitcases, representing pet friendly travel

For many people, a pet is as much a part of the family as anyone else so leaving them behind isn't really an option. Travelling with a pet does mean a bit more planning, though, from paperwork and transport to finding somewhere that will actually welcome them when you arrive.

Here's what you need to know about bringing a dog, cat or ferret into the UK, and where to stay once you're here.


Preparing to travel with your pet

Whichever way you're travelling, a comfortable pet is a calmer pet. A well-fitted carrier, a familiar blanket, and a bit of practice with shorter trips beforehand all go a long way before a longer journey.

Bringing your pet into the UK: the current rules (updated 2026)

The requirements are more detailed than they used to be, so it's worth checking the details apply to your specific route and country of travel before you book anything.

  • Microchip first, then vaccinate. Your pet must be microchipped *before* their rabies vaccination — if it happens the other way round, the vaccination doesn't count and has to be redone.
  • Rabies vaccination and a 21-day wait. You'll need to wait at least 21 full days after the primary rabies vaccination (or the final dose, if it's given in more than one part) before travelling.
  • An Animal Health Certificate (AHC), issued by an official vet, has replaced the old pet passport system for most non-EU pet passport holders. It confirms the microchip, vaccination and, for dogs, tapeworm treatment.
  • Tapeworm treatment for dogs, given by a vet 24–120 hours (1–5 days) before arrival. Cats and ferrets don't need this.
  • Coming from an "unlisted" country? Your pet will also need a rabies antibody blood test at least 30 days after vaccination, and you'll need to wait a further 3 months from the date of that blood sample before entering the UK.
  • A declaration confirming you're not selling or transferring ownership of the pet.

Because timings and document requirements vary by country and route, always check the specifics on the UK Government's official pet travel guidance (https://www.gov.uk/bring-pet-to-great-britain) before you travel. A wrongly timed vaccination or certificate is the most common reason for delays or quarantine at the border.

Before you book your stay

Check whether your accommodation provider has a limit on the number of pets, any breed restrictions, or asks for proof your pet is fit to travel. Many pet friendly stays also ask for an additional security deposit or cleaning charge, so it's worth confirming this upfront.

Pet friendly serviced apartments across the UK

Wherever your travels take you, chances are we've got a pet friendly serviced apartment nearby. Our portfolio spans the UK, from leafy corners of West London and the buzz of the City, to Manchester's Northern Quarter, Glasgow's Merchant City, and the historic streets of Edinburgh and Aberdeen. Many of our apartments sit just moments from a park or green space making them perfect for morning walks before you head out to explore. Whether you're relocating for work or bringing the whole family (four-legged members included) on holiday, there's a home away from home waiting for you both. 

Below are some of the pet friendly serviced apartments we can offer. 

Pet friendly Serviced Apartments London

Citadines Holborn - Covent Garden

Citadines Trafalgar Square, The West End

Citadines Barbican, Clerkenwell

Cheval Three Quays, The City

The Milestone Apartments, Kensington

Barons Court Apartments, West Kensington

Citadines South Kensington, South Kensington

The Grove Apartments, Hammersmith

Ongar Road Apartments, West Hampstead

 

Pet Friendly Serviced Apartments Liverpool

Adagio Liverpool City Centre

Pet Friendly Serviced Apartments Manchester

Deansgate Apartments, Manchester

Native Manchester, Manchester

Pet Friendly Serviced Apartments Scotland

Lyndoch Apartments, Glasgow

Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile

Feeling inspired? Get in touch

Make the UK feel like home. Whether you are traveling for business or a family holiday, Prestige Apartments offers premium serviced accommodation to fit all budgets and group sizes. Don't settle for a hotel room this year.

Enquire Now or call our sales team today to get a tailored shortlist within 2 working hours.