Relocating to London can be an exciting adventure, especially when you’re bringing your pet along for the ride! As a pet-friendly city, London offers plenty of opportunities for you and your furry friend to thrive. However, moving to a new country with a pet requires preparation. It’s a bit more complex than I thought so sharing all the things I wish I knew beforehand. Here are five tips to make the transition smoother for both of you (coming from someone who just did it):

 

1. Understand Pet Import Regulations

Before moving, ensure you meet all the U.K.’s pet import requirements. Your pet will need:

• A microchip for identification.
• An up-to-date rabies vaccination and, if applicable, a rabies titer test.
• A valid pet passport or animal health certificate (AHC) issued by an accredited vet (look for USDA accreditation)
• A tapeworm treatment (for dogs) administered 24-120 hours before arrival. Think 1-4 days before you leave.

Navigating the process can feel overwhelming, but proper planning will make it manageable, I would recommend starting vet visits 4-8 weeks in advance because the paperwork takes time to complete and return.

When I moved to London this January with my dog, Joey, it took multiple vet trips and a significant investment to get all the paperwork sorted, but I’m so glad we did it. It’s a journey I’d repeat in a heartbeat to have Joey here with me!

 

2. Find Pet-Friendly Housing

Not all London rentals welcome pets, so start your housing search early. Look for listings explicitly marked as “pet-friendly,” or work with estate agents experienced in finding accommodations for pet owners.
Here are some tips:

• Consider areas with access to parks, such as Hampstead, Clapham, or Greenwich.
• Prepare a “pet CV” aka pet resume that includes references from previous landlords and details about your pet’s behavior, age, weight and training.
• Be ready to negotiate with landlords—offering a slightly higher deposit or agreeing to regular cleaning can help secure approval IF needed. We actually negotiated the other way as a couple which is favorable for a lot of landlords.

 

3. Explore London’s Pet-Friendly Spots

London is a city that loves its pets, and you’ll find plenty of spaces where your furry friend will feel welcome. Some highlights include:

• Parks: Hyde Park, Battersea Park, and Richmond Park are great for walks and outdoor play.
• Cafés: Many independent coffee shops allow pets, often offering treats or water bowls.
• Transportation: Pets are allowed on public transport, including the Tube, buses, and trains, provided they’re well-behaved and not disruptive.

 

4. Register with a Local Vet

Finding a vet near your new home should be a top priority. Register with a local practice as soon as possible to ensure you’re prepared for routine care or emergencies. Additionally, familiarize yourself with pet insurance options in the U.K., as it can help cover unexpected medical costs.

 

5. Adapt Your Routine to City Life

Adjusting to life in a bustling city like London might take some time for your pet, especially if they’re used to quieter surroundings. Here’s how to ease the transition:

• Stick to a consistent feeding, walking, and playtime schedule to help your pet feel secure.
• Introduce them to new environments gradually—start with short walks around your neighborhood and slowly explore busier areas.
• Keep noise and stimulation in check at home, especially if you live in a flat or shared building. Consider pet-proofing your space and investing in calming tools like white noise machines or pet pheromone diffusers.

To ensure Joey wouldn’t face quarantine, we opted to fly into France with EU paperwork and drove over the border. Yes, this required double the cost for two sets of paperwork but was totally worth it. The U.K. has stricter rules about dogs flying in the cabin, but this workaround was worth the effort. If you’re planning a similar move and want to learn more, feel free to message or comment—I’m happy to share details!

 

Moving to London with a pet comes with its challenges, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can be a rewarding experience. From stunning parks to pet-friendly hangouts, the city offers countless opportunities for your furry friend to enjoy urban life alongside you.