August was a record-breaking month for Eurotunnel Le Shuttle with the largest number of pet crossings to date – a total of 54,501.

Summer 2022 also set a record for pet travel on the service as a  whole, with some 98,000 journeys across the summer holidays in July and August.

This takes the total volume of pets carried on Le Shuttle to more than 3.7 million since 2000.

A survey of existing Eurotunnel customers who have travelled with a pet in the last three years found that 61.5% regularly take their dog on holiday with them.

Many customers said that they choose Eurotunnel over ferry travel for the ability to stay with their pet throughout the journey, making it less stressful. Another key reason is that the journey is by far the quickest method to get to mainland Europe.

Eurotunnel Le Shuttle’s top tips for travelling with your pet

  • Ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date before you book your holiday – don’t leave it until the last minute.
  • The EU Pet Passport, issued in Great Britain, this will no longer be valid for travel to the EU and you will be required to obtain an Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
  • If you have a long journey ahead of you, give your pet a light meal before you go and remember to pack small snacks for them (and the family).
  • Plan to make plenty of stops along the way.
  • Pack additional items like spare collars, leads, beds, as well as toilet bags and of course plenty of water. It’s thirsty work going on holiday.
  • Be aware there are more biting insects abroad than we have in the UK. Ask your vet how you can take preventative steps for your pet.
  • Print out instructions for the vet in the language of the country you are returning from.