Travelling with pets can be stressful, and airport rules often are stressful. If you are planning to fly with your pet or collect an animal arriving in the UK, knowing about the London Gatwick Airport pet policy is essential. This guide explains everything you need to know about Gatwick Airport pets, assistance dogs, the Animal Reception Centre (ARC), and the rules for baggage pickup and pet documentation.
Gatwick Airport Pet Policy at a Glance
Only assistance dogs and animals that are travelling are allowed inside the North Terminal or South Terminal. This means you cannot walk your pet into the terminal unless it is a recognised assistance dog or an animal booked for travel.
All other pets arriving or departing Gatwick go through the Animal Reception Centre (ARC), located in the World Cargo Centre near the airport.
If you are travelling with an assistance dog, you must notify your airline at least 48 hours before departure. Airlines and the UK Border Force need this notice to prepare support at check-in, security, and arrivals.
Documents Needed for Pets Entering the UK
The UK has strict rules for animals arriving at airports, including Gatwick. Your pet must have:
- A working microchip
- A valid rabies vaccination
- An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) or a valid pet passport (where accepted)
- Tapeworm treatment (for dogs from some countries)
These rules are enforced by APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency) and checked at Gatwick before your pet is released. Always check the latest guidance before travel, as regulations may change.
Assistance Dogs at Gatwick
Booking and Notice
Only recognised assistance dogs are allowed in the terminal and onboard aircraft. You must notify your airline at least 48 hours before your flight. Airlines will confirm if your dog meets UK and EU standards.
Arrival at Gatwick
When you land at Gatwick with an assistance dog, the checks are carried out at the aircraft by staff from the Animal Reception Centre. This means your dog stays with you during the entire process, avoiding separation and stress.
Recognition in the UK
The UK recognises trained assistance dogs affiliated with groups such as ADI (Assistance Dogs International) or IGDF (International Guide Dog Federation). Emotional support animals are not recognised as assistance animals in the UK and must travel as pets in the hold.
Pet Travel via Cargo at Gatwick Airport
If your pet is travelling as cargo or excess baggage, it will go through the Gatwick Animal Reception Centre. This is where all pets (except assistance dogs) are cleared before being released.
Animal Reception Centre (ARC)
- Location: World Cargo Centre, Gatwick, RH6 0SQ
- Operated by: Animal Aircare
- Open: 24/7, 365 days a year
- Facilities: secure kennels, water bowls, microchip scanning, and veterinary support if needed
Your pet is usually ready for collection about one hour after landing. The ARC team will check the paperwork, microchip, and welfare before releasing the animal.
Owners must bring valid ID, flight details, and any supporting documents. Parking is available at the Cargo Centre.
Airline Rules for Pets at Gatwick
Each airline at Gatwick has its own pet policy. Here are examples from major carriers:
easyJet
- Pets are not allowed in the cabin or hold.
- Only recognised assistance dogs are permitted on approved routes.
British Airways
- Pets cannot travel in the passenger cabin (except assistance dogs).
- Pets travel as cargo, arranged through IAG Cargo.
- Assistance dogs may travel in the cabin with pre-approval.
Always check with your airline before booking flights, as policies differ depending on routes and aircraft.
What Happens When Your Pet Arrives at Gatwick
- The plane lands at Gatwick.
- Your pet is taken to the Animal Reception Centre.
- ARC staff check paperwork, microchip, and vaccinations.
- Pets are placed in kennels with water until owners arrive.
- After clearance, you collect your pet and leave.
For most owners, the waiting time is about an hour after landing. Assistance dogs are checked at the aircraft and remain with passengers.
Outbound Travel from Gatwick with Pets
If your pet is travelling abroad from Gatwick, it will also pass through the Animal Reception Centre before boarding. Airlines require:
- An IATA-approved travel crate
- Up-to-date documents and vaccinations
- Booking confirmation with your airline’s cargo department
Pets must arrive at the Cargo Centre hours before departure to allow clearance.
Tips for Pet Travel at Gatwick
- Arrive early at the Cargo Centre if your pet is flying.
- Use an IATA-approved crate with bedding and water.
- Feed your pet a light meal before travel.
- Carry copies of all documents and certificates.
- If travelling with an assistance dog, carry training certification if requested.
Pet-Friendly Rides With TappAXI:
At TappAXI, we understand that travelling with pets can be stressful. That’s why our Gatwick Airport transfers are pet-friendly and designed to make the journey easier for both you and your animal. Our drivers assist when you’re collecting pets from the Animal Reception Centre or travelling with an assistance dog, helping with luggage, crates, and transfers to your home or another airport. With spacious vehicles, fixed fares, and a reliable door-to-door service, we make sure your pet’s comfort and safety come first while taking the hassle out of your onward travel.
FAQs
Are pets allowed inside Gatwick Airport terminals?
Only assistance dogs and animals booked for travel are allowed in the North and South Terminals. General pets cannot enter the terminal buildings.
Where do I collect my pet at Gatwick?
All pets arriving without their owner are cleared at the Animal Reception Centre (ARC) in the World Cargo Centre. Expect to collect your pet about one hour after landing.
What documents do I need for my pet to enter the UK?
You need a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and an Animal Health Certificate (or approved passport). Dogs from some countries must also have tapeworm treatment.
Do airlines flying from Gatwick allow pets in the cabin?
Most airlines, including easyJet and British Airways, do not allow pets in the cabin. Only recognised assistance dogs are permitted. Pets must travel as cargo or excess baggage.
Are emotional support animals accepted at Gatwick?
No. The UK does not recognise emotional support animals as assistance animals. They must travel as pets, subject to airline rules and UK entry checks.
Can I pre-book my assistance dog with the airline?
Yes. You must notify your airline at least 48 hours before your flight so arrangements can be made.
How long after arrival until I can collect my pet?
Most pets are ready at the ARC about one hour after the flight lands. The process includes welfare checks and document verification.
Where is the Gatwick Animal Reception Centre located?
The ARC is based in the World Cargo Centre, Gatwick, RH6 0SQ, a short drive from the main passenger terminals.
Pet Travel at Gatwick Made Simple
Gatwick Airport has clear rules for pet travel. Only assistance dogs and travelling animals are allowed in the terminals. All other pets go through the Animal Reception Centre, where they are checked and released after landing. Airlines such as easyJet and British Airways allow only assistance dogs in the cabin, with other pets handled as cargo.
To avoid stress, prepare your documents, book in advance, and know where to go for collection. If you are travelling onward from Gatwick after collecting your pet, arranging a reliable airport taxi ensures you reach your next destination smoothly.
