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How To Book Your Pet On British Airways, Including Fees And A Step-by-step Guide

By flightshelpcenter

Published on September 2, 2025

Travelling with a pet is truly a wonderful experience but it also starts with detailed rules and procedures depending on the airline you choose. Everyone knows British Airways, regarded as one of the leading international carriers, does allow pets to travel—but with specific conditions. Unlike some U.S. airlines that allow small pets in the cabin, British Airways requires almost all animals to travel in the cargo hold, operated by IAG Cargo, its specialized pet travel division.

If you are really planning to fly with your lovely friend, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from pet booking steps and requirements to fees, safety measures, and tips for stress-free travel.

Does British Airways Allow Pets in the Cabin?

British Airways does not permit pets to be carried in the cabin (except service dogs registered). Rather, the majority of pets are required to be transported as checked baggage using the Live Animals program at IAG Cargo.

The only exception: Assistance dogs that have been trained to assist passengers with disabilities can fly in the cabin at no cost as long as they meet certain requirements.

British Airways Pet Travel Options

British Airways offers pet travel in the following ways:

Service/Assistance Dogs in Cabin

Fully trained guide dogs or assistance dogs may fly in the cabin free of charge.
Advance notification and documentation are required.

Pets via IAG Cargo

Most pets travel in the cargo hold.
The hold is temperature- and pressure-controlled, the same as the passenger cabin.
Booking is done through IAG Cargo or an approved pet relocation company.

Emotional Support Animals (ESA)

As of 2021, British Airways no longer recognizes emotional support animals. Only certified service dogs qualify for cabin travel.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book Your Pet on British Airways

Booking your pet on British Airways requires careful preparation. Here’s a clear step-by-step process:

Step 1: Check Pet Eligibility

Before booking, confirm whether your pet is eligible to travel. British Airways allows:

Dogs and cats (most breeds)
Some rabbits and small domestic animals

Restrictions:

Certain brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dog and cat breeds are not permitted due to breathing risks during flight. Examples: Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats.
Very young animals (under 12 weeks old for dogs/cats) are not allowed.
Exotic pets like reptiles, amphibians, and spiders are prohibited.

Step 2: Review Destination Country Rules

Every country has different import and quarantine laws for animals. For example:

EU/UK: Pets require a valid pet passport or an Animal Health Certificate (AHC) with up-to-date rabies vaccinations.
USA: Requires rabies vaccination and CDC approval depending on country of origin.
Australia/New Zealand: Extremely strict biosecurity rules; pets may face quarantine.

Tip: Always check the government veterinary authority website of your destination before booking.

Step 3: Contact IAG Cargo

Unlike booking flights for yourself, you cannot simply add a pet to your online booking. You must go through IAG Cargo or a recognized pet relocation company.

Visit IAG Cargo’s Pet Travel Portal.
Submit a “Live Animals Booking Request” form.
Provide details:
Pet species & breed
Weight & size of pet
Size of travel crate
Departure and arrival airports
Preferred travel date

You will receive a quote for transport charges and confirmation of availability.

Step 4: Prepare Travel Crate

Your pet must travel in an IATA-approved crate that meets specific safety standards. Key requirements:

Big enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie comfortably.
Made of rigid plastic or wood with secure ventilation.
Leak-proof floor with absorbent material.
Water and food bowls attached inside.
Must be labeled with:
“Live Animal” sticker
Owner’s name, phone number, and address

Note: British Airways and IAG Cargo staff may refuse boarding if the crate does not meet requirements.

Step 5: Veterinary Preparation

Before travel, your pet must undergo veterinary checks:

Microchip: Most destinations require pets to be microchipped.
Rabies Vaccination: Administered at least 21 days before travel.
Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed vet within 10 days of travel (requirements vary by destination).
Deworming/Tick Treatment: Some countries mandate this before entry.

Always carry multiple copies of vaccination records and health certificates.

Step 6: Confirm Flight & Drop-Off

You must check in your pet at a designated IAG Cargo Animal Reception Centre (often near the airport’s cargo terminal).
Drop-off usually occurs 4–6 hours before flight departure.
Upon arrival, your pet will be cared for by trained staff until loaded onto the aircraft.

Step 7: Arrival & Collection

Upon arrival, your pet will be taken to the animal reception facility at the destination airport.
Customs and veterinary checks will take place before release.
You (or your appointed pet relocation agent) can collect your pet once clearance is complete.

Quick Reference: British Airways Pet Travel at a Glance

Category	Details
Pets in Cabin	Only certified service/assistance dogs are allowed (free of charge).
Pets in Cargo	Dogs, cats, rabbits (most breeds) must travel via IAG Cargo “Live Animals.”
Banned Breeds	Snub-nosed breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats (breathing risks).
Age Limit	Pets must be at least 12 weeks old.
Travel Crate	IATA-approved, big enough for pet to stand/turn/lie down; secure ventilation.
Health Requirements	Microchip, rabies vaccination, vet-issued health certificate.
Drop-Off Time	4–6 hours before flight at IAG Cargo Animal Reception Centre.
Average Costs	$1,000–$1,500 (small pets); $1,500–$2,500 (medium/large); $2,500+ (XL).
International Rules	Quarantine/extra documentation may apply depending on destination country.
Avoid Sedation	Not recommended, can cause health risks.

British Airways Pet Travel Fees

British Airways pet travel fees vary depending on:

Pet size & weight
Crate size
Route & destination country regulations

On average, costs range from:

Small dog/cat (up to 20kg with crate): $1,000 – $1,500
Medium/large dog (20–45kg with crate): $1,500 – $2,500
Extra-large breeds (over 45kg with crate): $2,500+

Additional charges may apply for:

Veterinary health checks
Quarantine (for certain destinations)
Handling fees at reception centers

Important: Service dogs traveling in the cabin are free of charge.

Tips to Make Pet Travel Easier

Book Early – Space for pets is limited; confirm your pet’s booking well in advance.
Crate Training – Familiarize your pet with the travel crate weeks before departure to reduce stress.
Avoid Sedation – Most airlines, including British Airways, discourage sedation as it can cause breathing problems.
Choose Direct Flights – Minimize layovers to reduce travel time for your pet.
Stay Updated on Weather Restrictions – Some airlines restrict pet travel during extreme heat or cold.

Final Thoughts

People need a lot of planningTravelling with your pet with British Airways ,though, when everything is properly prepared, it will be a hassle-free experience. Airline does not accept pets in the cabin (except service dogs), IAG Cargo Pet Travel Program can guarantee the safe and comfortable transportation of animals in low-temperature conditions.

With this knowledge of the fees, paperwork, and the process step-by-step, you will be in a better position to ensure your pet has a safe and stress-free journey.Moving, taking a long-term trip or just going on a holiday, planning always helps you and your four-legged friend to enjoy the trip.