Pet owners will be able to benefit from a new London Heathrow Airport animal reception centre due to open later this year.
The specialist facility, operated by Animal Aircare Ltd, will act as an approved border control post.
Services will include assistance with airline approvals to carry animals, transit of animals through London Heathrow Airport, boarding, travel boxes, and processing the necessary documentation to ensure the safe and comfortable movement of pets and other animals internationally.
Located within a short drive of all the passenger terminals and Junction 14 of the M25 for drop offs and collections, the temperature-controlled, and highly secure 8,209 sq-ft centre will provide unrestricted access to flights by being open 24/7, 365 days per year.
Animal Aircare has specialised in the care of pets travelling by air for over 25 years and already operates animal care facilities at London Gatwick and London Luton airports.
“The new operation will not only help us to better serve our customers but will also enable airlines and freight forwarders to expand on the services they provide,” said Animal Aircare’s commercial and facilities manager Pete Bryant.
UK manager Claire Beadle added: “Our experienced team of animal welfare officers are pet owners and animal lovers themselves and are committed to making the transportation of pets and other animals a smooth and worry-free experience.”
The new animal reception centre is due to be completed by the beginning of Quarter 4 2021 and will be receiving animals immediately after opening.
