News Release (18/06/09)
Animal Reception Centre to handle pet passengers
A new Animal Reception Centre at Bristol International is set to open next month (1st July), enabling dog and cat owners across the South West to fly their pets in and out of the region's airport.
Animals with a Pet Passport are allowed to enter the UK without the statutory six months quarantine. However, facilities are required at the airport to enable checks to be carried out on pets before and after flights. Bristol International will become only the fourth airport in the UK with such facilities (following Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester), reducing road journeys for local dog and cat owners looking to transport their animals overseas.
The Animal Reception Centre at Bristol International will be operated by Overhill Kennels. Established for 30 years, the Bristol-based business specializes in boarding and exports. Meg Purnell-Carpenter, owner of Overhill Kennels, commented:
"There is huge support from the dog world for this service, whether it is ex-pats returning home with their pets, local people travelling to second homes overseas or breeders attending UK shows."
Paul Rankin, General Manager (Airside Operations) at Bristol International said:
"We are delighted to be able to respond to demand from passengers and airlines for this facility. The Animal Reception Centre will enable airlines to offer an additional service, meeting the needs of the many pet-owners who want to take their animals overseas."
Further information on the Animal Reception Centre is available by calling 01275 832489 or emailing k9meg@overhill.co.uk.