Pet Travel Belgium | Pet Transport to Belgium from UK

Flying your dog or cat to Belgium? Here’s how to get them there safely.

Belgium accepts pets from the UK but you’ll need an Animal Health Certificate rather than a Pet Passport. We’re Fetchapet and we’ve been transporting pets across Europe for over 30 years. Whether you’re heading to Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent or anywhere else in Belgium, we’ll handle the documentation and travel arrangements.

Getting Your Pet Ready For Belgium

Your pet needs microchipping before or at the same time as their rabies vaccination. The microchip number must appear on all veterinary paperwork.

Rabies vaccination is required at least 21 days before you travel to Belgium. This waiting period is mandatory so plan accordingly.

An Animal Health Certificate from a UK vet replaces the old Pet Passport system for travel to Belgium. The certificate must be issued within 10 days before you enter Belgium. Once issued, the AHC is valid for 10 days to enter the EU, then remains valid for 6 months for onward travel within Europe and for returning to the UK.

Belgium requires you to enter through a designated travellers’ point of entry where officials may check your pet’s documentation.

You can bring up to 5 pets maximum when traveling to Belgium.

Flying Your Pet To Belgium

We arrange flights to Brussels Airport for pets traveling as cargo. Your pet flies in a custom built crate made in our workshops, sized so your dog or cat can stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.

The flight from the UK to Belgium is short, usually under two hours, which makes it relatively straightforward for most pets.

Living In Belgium With Pets

Belgium is genuinely pet friendly. Cities like Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent have plenty of parks and green spaces where dogs are welcome. Many cafes and restaurants allow dogs on terraces and outdoor seating areas.

The country is compact so everything is relatively close together. You’re never far from a park or walking area even in city centres.

Belgium has three language regions (French, Flemish, German) but most vets and pet services operate in multiple languages. Finding English speaking vets in major cities is straightforward.

The climate is mild with cool winters and moderate summers. Similar to the UK really, so pets adapt easily without extreme temperature concerns.

Returning To The UK

When you’re ready to come back to the UK with your pet, remember that dogs need tapeworm treatment given by a vet between 24 hours and 5 days before you re enter the UK. This is a UK requirement, not a Belgian one.

Your Animal Health Certificate remains valid for your return journey to the UK for 6 months from issue, so short trips to Belgium don’t require new paperwork each way.

Give Us A Ring

Belgium follows standard EU entry rules which changed after the UK left the EU. The Animal Health Certificate timing is the key thing to get right.

Questions about moving your pet to Belgium? Ring us on 01206 330332 between 8am and 4pm Monday to Friday. Or email info@fetchapet.co.uk anytime and we’ll respond quickly.

We’ve been handling pet transport to Belgium for over 30 years. Get a free quote today.

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FAQs

Can I use a UK Pet Passport for Belgium?

No, UK Pet Passports are no longer valid for Belgium or any EU country. You need an Animal Health Certificate issued by a UK vet within 10 days before travel.

How long is the Animal Health Certificate valid?

The AHC is valid for 10 days to enter Belgium, then remains valid for 6 months for onward travel in the EU and for returning to the UK.

How much does it cost to fly a dog to Belgium?

Cost depends on your dog’s size. Get a free quote for exact pricing.

Can I take my pet on the ferry or Eurotunnel to Belgium?

Yes, you can travel to Belgium via Eurotunnel or ferry with your pet in your vehicle. While we specialize in air transport, ring us on 01206 330332 if you would like to discuss ferry requirements and we can advise on what documentation you will need.

Do dogs need quarantine in Belgium?

No quarantine for dogs in Belgium when they have proper documentation including microchip, rabies vaccination and valid Animal Health Certificate.

How much does it cost to fly a cat to Belgium?

Cost depends on your cat’s size. Get a free quote for exact pricing.

What about returning to the UK from Belgium?

Dogs need tapeworm treatment from a vet between 24 hours and 5 days before re entering the UK. Your Animal Health Certificate remains valid for return within 6 months of issue.

Which airports in Belgium accept pets?

Brussels Airport is the main entry point for pets arriving by air in Belgium.