u/beeschirp

Edit: Upon more digging, she has to go to the UK via a pet cargo transport company. If anyone has a trusted and affordable option, please let me know!

Hello, like the title says, I’d like to bring my cat to the UK (Florida to Edinburgh). I’ll be coming on a student visa and will be staying in a housing accommodation that does allow pets. Here’s what I know and what I’m trying to figure out.

What I know:
- Cats cannot come into the UK in the cabin, they must be in cargo. I know the cargo is safe, it’s just not my most desirable option but I would do it if I absolutely needed to.
- I have seen ways to circumnavigate this, such as going to France/The Netherlands and getting another form of transport the rest of the way. However, this would involve needing another health certificate on top of the UK one (which is already expensive enough), so I am trying to avoid needing to get that.
- I know there are pet transport companies that can do all of this for me, but they are out of my price range. If anyone knows a cheaper one, feel free to suggest it!
- Many American based airlines have stopped their pet in cargo services except for military personnel since COVID.

What I’m trying to figure out:
- For those of you who have done this (in cabin partway or in cargo), who did you fly and what route did you take? Were there any issues or things you didn’t expect? I am comfortable coming into the UK anywhere and figuring out the next transportation steps myself.
- Is there a way to fly in cabin to a layover destination in Europe, and transfer her to the hold for the shorter flight to EDI without needing an EU health certificate?
- Has anyone had another person take their pet for them, such as a family member or friend, without them present. Were there any additional steps other than needing your written consent? I am considering this option as another last resort in case my ideal timeline does not work out.

Thank you very much!!