First class pet travel since 1966
Hong Kong operates a Group 2/3 country tier system; the UK falls under Group 2, allowing dogs and cats to enter without quarantine subject to the correct documentation. The process is well-defined, and Hong Kong International (HKG) is one of the most experienced pet-handling airports in Asia.
The AFCD permit is the gatekeeper — apply 6–8 weeks before travel and confirm it lists the correct airline, flight number, and microchip. Permits are valid for six months but specify a single intended entry.
Cathay Pacific operates direct cargo from London Heathrow to HKG and is the most commonly used carrier. British Airways also serves the route. Pets clear inspection at the AFCD animal management centre at HKG; allow 2–4 hours from landing.
Usually no — pets at the Mickleham facility are housed separately so staff can monitor each animal individually for eating, toileting, and signs of disease. Some dogs from the same family may be walked together, and in some cases approval is granted later in the stay for them to share an enclosure, but joint housing is not guaranteed.
What happens depends on how serious the condition is. For emergencies, the Mickleham quarantine facility has an arrangement with an off-site veterinary clinic where urgent treatment can be carried out. For less urgent issues, quarantine staff will recommend mobile vets you can contact to visit and assess your pet at the facility, or you can choose your own — we can also provide this information ahead of your pet’s arrival.
Any veterinary costs are the owner’s responsibility, and quarantine will also charge a fee for supervising the vet’s visit at their facility. Quarantine staff will contact you directly in either situation, which is why it’s so important that we hold your correct contact details.
Any medication your pet needs during quarantine must arrive at the facility clearly labelled, with a written veterinary declaration, and matching the medication information provided before travel. Your Airpets export consultant prepares the medication documentation as part of your pre-departure paperwork, so there are no issues at the facility. Bear in mind that any medication sent with your pet will not be released from quarantine, so we typically send only enough to cover their quarantine stay.
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