Travelling with your furry friend through Heathrow Airport can be smooth and stress-free if you’re prepared. Here’s everything you need to know, from airline rules to airport facilities. So, you and your pet enjoy a seamless journey.
Pet Policy by Heathrow Airport
Heathrow’s general rules allow pets to transit as checked baggage, cargo, or in the cabin (depending on airline). However, Heathrow itself does not impose its restrictions. Just confirming that pets are in licensed carriers and properly documented. The Heathrow airport facilitates handling arriving pets in the Animal Reception Centre (HARC), also known as the Heathrow Bird & Pet Centre. The HARC manages customs, health checks, and paperwork.
Arriving pets are directed to HARC near Terminal 4. Owners collect their pets there, completing any inspections or documentation. Duration in holding can range from one to several hours, depending on origin country and documentation. Note: Only verified assistance animals bypass certain HARC procedures.
Airline Official Pet Policies (MUST READ)
Each airline has specific pet requirements. Here are some examples:
British Airways Pet Policy:
Pets must travel in an IATA-approved carrier as cargo in the hold. Heated or cooled cabins, depending on the aircraft.
Lufthansa:
Small dogs or cats may travel in the cabin if the carrier fits under your seat (up to 8kg total). Larger pets go in the hold via cargo.
Air France Pet Policy:
Pets are allowed in the cabin if carrier dimensions are under 46 x 28 x 24 cm and total weight is ≤8kg. Otherwise, they travel in the hold as air cargo, with advanced reservations required.
KLM:
Allows pets in the cabin or as Lettre de Service (cargo). Reservations and health certificates are required at least 48 hours before departure.
Always check your airline’s up-to-date pet policy before travel. You’ll need details on carrier size, allowed weight, advance notification periods, fees, and required documents like health certificates or pet passports.
Assistance Animals at London Heathrow
If you’re travelling with a pet or assistance animal, Heathrow welcomes them everywhere, regardless of your airline’s pet policy. Arriving assistance animals are allowed through security and customs with you and don’t go to HARC.
Each terminal has designated areas for assistance animal relief. For example:
- Terminal 2: Assistance dog relief area is behind Zone A, Level 5; walk past the lifts and follow signage.
- Terminal 3: Locate the outdoor assistance area near the sky bridge, close to the north end of the terminal.
- Terminal 5: The assistance dog policy is enforced near the short-stay car park entrance, with clear signage and staff assistance available.
These spaces are calm, hygienic, and critical for your pet’s comfort before or after travel.
Pet Relief Areas at Heathrow
All terminals now include pet relief areas—these are short, secured outdoor zones where pets can stretch their legs and go to the toilet:
- Terminal 2: Before security in the departures courtyard, there’s a grass area specifically for pets.
- Terminal 3: Outside the North-East door, near the bus shelters.
- Terminal 4: Located close to the car park terrace, accessible without re-entering passenger security.
- Terminal 5: Near the North Satellite Arrivals walkway, in the outdoor area adjacent to the drop-off zone.
These pet relief areas help reduce stress and keep your pet comfortable during long layovers or delays.
TappAXI’s Pet Policy (Safe Rides, Happy Pets)
At TappAXI, we are happy to bring your pet along in our Heathrow airport transfers. Just follow these guidelines:
- Pets must be in secure, IATA-approved carriers.
- Let us know in advance when booking (via phone or app) so we can provide the right vehicle and cleaning protocols.
- Our drivers are trained in pet-friendly pickups and will ensure safe loading and handling.
- We treat pets with care and respect—clean, controlled, and comfortable, just like you would expect.
No stress for you or your pet, just a smooth journey from the terminal to the car.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bring my dog to Heathrow?
Yes—as long as the dog is in a proper, IATA-approved carrier and all airline and UK pet travelling rules are met.
Are assistance dogs allowed at Heathrow?
Absolutely. Assistance dogs are permitted throughout the airport and don’t need to go through HARC.
Where is the Heathrow pet reception?
Arriving pets go to the HARC (Heathrow Animal Reception Centre) near Terminal 4 for checks and paperwork.
Where can I find a pet relief area at Heathrow airport?
Each terminal has a dedicated pet relief area—just outside departure lounges or near terminals’ outdoor exits.
Does Heathrow have an official “Heathrow Bird & Pet Centre”?
It’s now referred to as HARC, but is the same facility managing pet arrivals with health, customs, and licensing staff.
What’s included in a Heathrow Airport pet departure procedure?
Departing pets must have proper documentation and be in approved carriers; they typically remain with you until handed to airline staff for loading.
What does Heathrow’s overall pet policy include?
Airport policy emphasises secure carriers, HARC for arrivals, relief areas for pets, and no additional terminal-level restrictions.
Tips for a smooth journey along with your pet
- Book early and confirm all pet requirements with your airline.
- Arrive at least two hours early to allow time for paperwork or HARC procedures.
- Use TappAXI, which welcomes pets with proper carriers, just inform us when booking.
- Give your pet a break in the designated pet relief area before a long flight.
- Service animals are always welcome and have specific, quiet waiting areas in each terminal.
With proper planning and awareness of the Heathrow pet policy, travelling with pets becomes easier. Make sure your carrier is prepared and ready before your journey. When you choose a pet-friendly taxi like TappAXI, the trip through Heathrow stays smooth, comfortable, and stress-free for both you and your pet.
