Pet Transport UK to USA: Straightforward, With a Few Specifics to Get Right
The UK to USA is one of the simpler international pet moves. The UK is classified as a low-risk (rabies-free) country by the CDC, which means no titre test and no quarantine for dogs. The main requirements are the CDC Dog Import Form, a health certificate from …
The United Kingdom to United States import process
Every step must be completed in sequence. A single missed deadline can add months to your timeline. We own the entire process.
Responsible: Vet to confirm
Responsible: Owner
Responsible: Owner or agent
Responsible: APHA-authorised vet
Responsible: Airline cargo
Responsible: US CBP
Responsible: Owner
What your pet needs to enter United States
Every item must be verified before your pet can board. We track each one against current standards.
What this route typically costs
Critical points
The CDC Dog Import Form is required for ALL dogs entering the USA, regardless of origin country or vaccination status. Complete it at cdc.gov/importation before you travel and bring the QR code receipt.
United Airlines has suspended its PetSafe cargo program for the general public. It does not currently accept cargo pets on UK to US routes.
Hawaii is not mainland USA. Moving to Hawaii requires the HDOA 5-Day-Or-Less programme with titre test, specific vaccination timing and advance paperwork. Start the Hawaii process at least 6 months before travel.
Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats and similar) face restrictions from most major airlines on the North Atlantic route. Check your specific breed before booking.
Microchip must pre-date the rabies vaccination. Many UK vets sequence this automatically but always verify before the health certificate is issued.
Approved carriers for this route
Not all airlines accept live animals. We book only with carriers that handle live animal cargo correctly.
The CDC Dog Import Form: what it is and why it matters
Since August 2024, all dogs entering the USA require a CDC Dog Import Form receipt, regardless of where they come from or what vaccinations they have. This includes dogs from the UK.
The form is completed free online at cdc.gov/importation. It takes around 10 minutes and generates a QR code receipt. US Customs and Border Protection officers will ask to see it at the border. Bring a printed copy and have a digital backup.
The form is valid for 6 months from submission and covers multiple entries from the same risk-category country. Complete it a few weeks before travel, not at the airport.
Health certificate: what UK owners need to know
The CDC does not technically require a health certificate for dogs from low-risk countries. In practice, every cargo airline requires one for their booking, and it is sensible to have one regardless.
The standard for North Atlantic cargo routes is an APHIS-format health certificate issued by an APHA-authorised Official Veterinarian and endorsed by APHA. This is different from a standard UK pet health certificate; the OV must be specifically authorised for international health certificates.
The examination must take place within 10 days of your travel date. Most owners book the OV appointment 5-8 days before departure. If you are using a pet transport agent, they will coordinate the OV as part of their service.
United Airlines does not take cargo pets
This is worth stating clearly because it surprises people. United Airlines suspended its PetSafe cargo programme for general customers and currently does not accept cargo pets on international routes. If you have a large dog that cannot travel in-cabin, United is not an option on this route.
The main alternatives are British Airways (via IAG Cargo, booked through PetAir UK), Delta, American Airlines and Virgin Atlantic. Each has its own breed restrictions, seasonal embargoes and crate size limits. Confirm current acceptance before booking.