To build your own Itinerary, click 
to add an item to your Itinerary basket.
Already saved an Itinerary?
You are here: Plan your visit > Hints and tips for travelling with a service dog
Throughout the UK, there are provisions in place to accommodate assistance dogs, though on some modes of transport, there may be restrictions in place, where the safety of the vessel takes precedence over the individuals. These services will make this known to travellers.
If you are not sure or need more advice, contact the Guide Dogs’ Guideline on 0800 7811444 or the organisation that trained your dog.
Inform the airline or booking agent at least 48 hours before flying that you have an assistance dog.
Contact the airport directly to ensure everything is in place to support you and your dog on arrival.
Airlines may ask for proof that your dog is trained by a recognised association, you can show this by having an ID tag on the dog’s collar, harness or jacket or by getting documentation from the resources above.
Before passing through security and departures, make sure the dog has the opportunity to spend itself.
Have the appropriate paperwork for your dog if you are travelling outside of the UK
Bring a restraining harness for take off and landing
Dogs will be required to sit in the space in front of your seat and as such, travellers with assistance dogs will most likely be seated at the front of the plane. Dogs are usually carried free of charge, but if the dog is larger than average, travellers may have buy an additional seat to give adequate room.
Water is often provided by airline staff free of charge.
Check with the airline about processing your dog at your destination before travelling.
Travellers with guide dogs are allowed to use taxis as they would normally. Drivers must legally allow a dog to travel with its owner and allow it to remain next to that person, there is no additional charge for carrying guide dogs in the UK.
When travelling by taxi, ensure that your dog is properly secured and that you follow the same protocols as when using a private car.
Guide dogs are allowed on all buses and there are no restrictions on how many are allowed on at any one time. Passengers are advised to sit in the larger priority seating area to allow more space.
Some other tips:
If you are travelling by coach, speak to the coach company beforehand about what is available for your dog; Make sure there are chances for regular comfort breaks; When booking assistance, make it known that you have a service animal with you.
All dogs are allowed to travel on trains with a maximum of two dogs per person. Similarly, if you are using the London underground, guide dogs are also allowed to use the platforms, carriages and escalators. Staff will be available to help you avoid any escalators or lifts where possible.
Be aware that the Eurostar is only able to carry four service dogs on any one train, so you may be asked to travel on the next available service.
Not all boats and ships are able to carry service dogs because of vessel safety, though this will be made clear to you on booking. Make sure to speak to the ferry operator when booking to find out what is available for your dog and when travelling, to make sure the Assistance Dog ID tag is visible.
(2).png){kind=icon}
