More than 360,000 pets crossed the Channel via LeShuttle in 2024, with new figures revealing that over 40 animals per hour used the service between Britain and France. The remarkable statistics show that one in eight vehicles on the tunnel crossing now carries a pet passenger.
Since the Pet Travel Scheme launched in 2000, more than 4.5 million pets have made the 35-minute journey from Folkestone to Calais, with France emerging as the most popular destination for British pet owners, followed by Spain, Italy, and Germany.
The service has become particularly popular with pet owners who prefer to keep their animals with them during the crossing, rather than leaving them in designated areas on ferries. Customer surveys indicate that the shorter journey time and ability to remain with pets throughout the trip are key factors in choosing the tunnel over sea routes.
To accommodate its furry passengers, LeShuttle provides 24-hour pet reception facilities at both terminals, complete with exercise areas featuring artificial grass and complimentary waste bags. The service caters not only to cats, dogs, and ferrets but also welcomes smaller pets such as rabbits, rodents, and birds, provided they have the appropriate veterinary certification.
Pet owners planning to travel should note that EU Pet Passports issued in Great Britain are no longer valid for travel to the EU, and an Animal Health Certificate is now required. The service costs £23 per pet each way, with registered guide and assistance dogs traveling free.
The increasing popularity of pet travel comes as more British families choose to holiday with their animals rather than leaving them in kennels or with pet sitters. LeShuttle operates various pricing tiers for vehicles, starting from £59 each way for day trips to £274 for flexible premium tickets.
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