Can you send animals in the mail uk

In the UK, there are specific regulations and guidelines for sending animals through the postal service. Here's what you need to know:

General Guidelines:

• The UK's Royal Mail (RM) and Parcelforce (PF) have strict rules regarding the transportation of live animals by post. This is to ensure the welfare and safety of the animals, as well as to prevent the spread of diseases.
• Animals can only be sent through the postal service if they are specifically permitted by law and if they meet certain conditions.

Permitted Animals:

• Some animals are allowed to be sent through the postal service, including:
  • Small birds (e.g., canaries, finches, budgies)
  • Small mammals (e.g., hamsters, gerbils, rabbits)
  • Reptiles and amphibians (e.g., snakes, lizards, frogs)
  • Invertebrates (e.g., bees, butterflies, ants)
• However, some animals are not permitted to be sent through the postal service, including:
  • Mammals that are not commonly kept as pets (e.g., primates, rodents)
  • Birds that are not commonly kept as pets (e.g., parrots, pigeons)
  • Animals that are protected by law (e.g., endangered species)

Requirements:

• If you want to send an animal through the postal service, you must ensure that it meets the following requirements:
  • The animal must be healthy and free from disease.
  • The animal must be properly packaged and contained to prevent escape or injury during transit.
  • The animal must be accompanied by a valid health certificate and any necessary permits or documentation.
  • The animal must be sent in a suitable container that provides adequate ventilation, food, and water.

Postal Services:

• Royal Mail (RM) and Parcelforce (PF) have specific services for sending animals, including:
  • Royal Mail's "Live Animal" service, which is designed for sending small animals, such as birds and reptiles.
  • Parcelforce's "Live Animal" service, which is designed for sending larger animals, such as mammals and amphibians.

Costs and Restrictions:

• The cost of sending an animal through the postal service will depend on the size and weight of the animal, as well as the distance it needs to travel.
• There may be restrictions on the types of animals that can be sent, as well as the destinations to which they can be sent.

Conclusion:

• Sending animals through the postal service in the UK is subject to specific regulations and guidelines.
• Only certain types of animals are permitted to be sent, and they must meet specific requirements and be properly packaged and contained.
• If you're considering sending an animal through the postal service, be sure to check with Royal Mail or Parcelforce for more information and to ensure that you comply with all relevant regulations.