We are a nation of dog lovers, and many of us might be thinking about travelling abroad with our furry friends. Le Shuttle has been carrying pets since the Pet Travel Scheme launched in 2000, and on September 26th, 2023, celebrates the 4 millionth pet journey.
Guillaume Rault, Director of Operations at LeShuttle, personally visited the Folkestone terminal on 26th September to welcome the 4 millionth pet, “I am thrilled to welcome our 4 millionth pet traveller. This milestone underscores our commitment to providing safe and convenient transport for pets, further enhancing the overall LeShuttle experience for our customers.”
The pet in question was an adorable 7-month-old black Labrador called Spencer. His family are regular LeShuttle customers and have travelled with previous dogs, although this was Spencer’s first crossing to visit family in Holland and Spain.
This comes on top of a bumper year so far for pet travel, with 254,000 pet journeys from January-August 2023, up 1.5% on the same time period of the previous best year (2022).
LeShuttle understands the importance of travelling with your beloved companion and enables you to all remain together in your car for the short 35-minute crossing from Folkestone to Calais. Pet receptions are available in both Folkestone and Calais to allow a hassle free 24-hour pet check-in service and any additional assistance you may need before you em-bark on your journey across the channel. Dedicated facilities include exercise areas with artificial grass and complimentary poop bags.
Survey results: LeShuttle customers who travel with pets
A recent survey of existing LeShuttle customers who have travelled with a pet in the last 2 years found that 94% do so at least once a year, and 63% more than once.
The most popular destination to travel with a pet is France (79%) followed by Spain, Italy, and Germany.
Many customers said that they choose LeShuttle over ferry travel for the ability to stay with their pet throughout the journey, making it less stressful. Another key reason is that the journey is by far the quickest method to get to mainland Europe.
LeShuttle’s Top Tips for Travelling with your Pet:
- Ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date before you book your holiday – don’t leave it until the last minute.
- The EU Pet Passport, issued in Great Britain, this will no longer be valid for travel to the EU and you will be required to obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
- If you have a long journey ahead of you, give your pet a light meal before you go and remember to pack small snacks for them (and the family).
- Plan to make plenty of stops along the way.
- Pack additional items like spare collars, leads, beds, as well as toilet bags and of course plenty of water. It’s thirsty work going on holiday.
- Be aware there are more biting insects abroad than we have in the UK. Ask your vet how you can take preventative steps for your pet.
- Print out instructions for the vet in the language of the country you are returning from.
Pets can travel on LeShuttle for just £22 per pet each way, which is applicable for dogs, cats & ferrets; DEFRA Pet Travel Documentation required. Registered Guide and Assistance Dogs travel free. Pet rabbits (along with rodents, birds, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles) are also welcome onboard providing your vet has completed the relevant Veterinary Certificate. Eurotunnel’s Pet Checklist details all of the requirements specific to the species.
Book your trip with LeShuttle from as little as:
- £90 per vehicle (up to 9 passengers) each way for a Short Stay Saver ticket (valid for 5 calendar days)
- £112 per vehicle (up to 9 passengers) for a Standard ticket (for any duration). One way
- £269 per vehicle (up to 9 passengers) for a Flexiplus ticket, turn up any time and get on the next available train, and access to the club lounge (for any duration). One way
- Take your pet from just £22 each way
