Last month, Eurotunnel recorded 54,501 crossings with pets, which is the largest number since the tunnel opened. Since 2000, Le Shuttle has carried over 3.7 million pets across the English Channel.

August was not the only record breaker, as July also contributed to summer 2022 setting a record for pet travel as a whole, with over 98,000 journeys recorded.

In a survey of Eurotunnel customers who have travelled with a pet in the last three years, 61.5% said they regularly take their dog on holiday with them. Among the reasons given were that travelling by Eurotunnel rather than taking the ferry, they could stay with their pet throughout the journey, making it less stressful, and that it is the quickest way to travel to mainland Europe.

Le Shuttle recognises the importance of passengers travelling with their pets, and allows both pets and passengers to remain together in their car for the short 35-minute crossing from Folkestone to Calais. At both Folkestone and Calais there are special pet receptions which provide a 24-hour pet check-in. There are also dedicated facilities for pets including exercise areas with artificial grass and free poop bags.

Eurotunnel Le Shuttle has issued a number of tips for travelling with pets:

• Ensure the pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date before booking holiday – don’t leave it until the last minute.
• An Animal Health Certificate (AHC) is required as the EU Pet Passport issued in Great Britain is no longer valid for travel to the EU.
• If making a long journey, give the pet a light meal before leaving and pack small snacks for both them and the family.
• Plan to make plenty of stops during the journey.
• Pack additional items such as spare collars, leads, beds, and toilet bags, and plenty of water.
• Be aware there are more biting insects abroad than in the UK. Ask a vet for advice on preventative measures that can protect pets.
• Print out instructions for the vet in the language of the country you are returning from.

Travel charges for pet dogs, cats & ferrets on Eurotunnel Le Shuttle are from £22 per pet each way, but Registered Guide and Assistance Dogs travel free. DEFRA Pet Travel Documentation is required before travelling.
Pet rabbits, rodents, birds, invertebrates, amphibians, and reptiles can also travel on Eurotunnel Le Shuttle, provided that a vet has completed the relevant Veterinary Certificate. The specific requirements for each species are detailed in Eurotunnel’s Pet Checklist.

Overall ticket charges on Eurotunnel Le Shuttle are:

• Short Stay Saver ticket, valid for five calendar days- £87 each way per vehicle and up to nine passengers.
• Standard ticket for any duration, one way – £110 per vehicle and up to nine passengers.
• Flexiplus ticket for any duration, one way, turn up any time and get on the next available train, with access to the club lounge – £269 per vehicle and up to nine passengers.

For further information visit www.eurotunnel.com