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Cheap Pet Transport Services: Save Yourself from Illegal Malpractices

Pet transportation services have proven to be a convenient and effective way to move pets from one location to another. However, with numerous options available in the market, selecting the most cost-effective method of transportation can become a difficult task. If you are struggling with the same challenge, consider choosing road transportation. At Exec Pets, we offer cost-effective ground pet transport services. Our DEFRA-authorised pet taxis ensure safe and luxurious transportation of your cats and dogs. 

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However, with numerous low-cost transport providers in the market, many pet owners are drawn to their cheap services. But as the saying goes, “You buy cheap, you get cheap.” Many pet transport companies take advantage of people's desire for cheaper services, offering unethical options, such as the illegal movement of pets from one place to another, often for the purpose of sale. This illicit activity can have serious consequences for both the pets involved and the people transporting them. To avoid this scam, it is important for pet owners to be aware of common malpractices in the industry. Therefore, when selecting a pet transport service, always do thorough research and be mindful of potential scams. 

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So whether you need dog, cat or pet transport services Contact us we provide you DEFRA approved pet transport services.

Common Pet Transport Malpractices and Their Consequences

Animal Welfare Concerns: Pets transported illegally are often kept in inhumane conditions without adequate food, water, or veterinary care. This can result in serious health problems, injury, and even death. Therefore, always choose providers that treat your pets like their own. At  Exec Pets, our advanced canine behaviourists and nutritionists ensure your pets receive the highest level of care and attention throughout their journey.

 

Spread of Disease: Pets transported illegally may be carriers of diseases that can spread to other animals and even humans. This can lead to widespread diseases that are difficult to control. 

 

Illegal Trade: Cheap pet transportation services and activities are often associated with unlawful pet shipping and pet exporting, which can include the trade in endangered species and other protected species. At Exec Pets, we prioritise safety by transporting only one family's pets at a time or pets and their owners together, ensuring a secure and ethical service.

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Financial Loss: People who purchase pets transported illegally often face financial losses as they may have to pay for veterinary care and other expenses associated with caring for a pet in poor health.

 

Legal Consequences: In addition to the potential animal welfare and financial risks, people who engage in cheap pet transport services are classified by DEFRA as a commercial movement. Animals need a separate health certificate and import &export papers, and VAT is payable on the purchase. Of course, you can’t risk it. DEFRA has little funding to deal with this massive problem that often pops up. It is a game of Russian Roulette. Do you do it properly, or risk having your new fur baby seized and impounded? That's why choosing a reliable company like ours can be a solution to all your problems. Our company is fully licensed by the EU, UK DEFRA, and DAERA, and we ensure that all our services meet the highest legal and regulatory standards.

 

Pretended Legitimacy: Many providers pretend to appear legitimate in front of clients by stealing the names of genuine pet transport companies. In addition, they also copy the logos and websites of other trusted companies. 

Why Proper Documentation Is Crucial for Pet Transport?

Cheap pet transport often claims that you only need a health certificate when transporting a puppy from one country to the UK. This shows that they are operating illegally. Many of these providers seem reputable, but in reality, this practice is both corrupt and illegal. Purchasing a pet is considered a commercial movement, which means a pet requires commercial paperwork, including import and export certificates and VAT payment on the animal. It is quite shocking how many transporters flout the law. Unfortunately, DEFRA/APHA are unable to police this issue due to limited funding. However, they do conduct occasional checks and enforce the regulations quite often, including seizing the pet or refusing its entry into the UK. Therefore, sometimes, cheap can be expensive. 

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To help prevent cheap ground pet transportation cases, purchasing pets from reputable breeders and pet stores is important. Suppose you suspect that a pet has been transported illegally. In that case, you should report it to the appropriate authorities, such as DEFRA, APHA, the local animal control or the police. Failing to do so can also cause serious legal consequences, such as fines and imprisonment. If you want impartial advice, call us at 0777 2277222 or click the link to our advice page here.

​GOLDEN RULES: How to Avoid Pet Transportation Scams?

Every problem has a solution. There are many ways through which you can avoid the risk of falling into these malpractices or scams and ensure the safe transportation of your pets. So, before you select a pet transportation company, be sure to follow these steps:

 

  1. Check feedback and reviews. Conduct a thorough research of the company.

  2. See if they have a reputable website with an address and, ideally, a landline.

  3. Search online for the exact wording of the advertisement or message you received from the potential scammer. This way, you may come across other reports or warnings related to a similar scam. 

  4. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. A reliable pet transport company will always answer your every question. 

  5. Don't be persuaded to give money upfront via PayPal. Always use traceable payment options.

  6. If Travelling from Paris, ask to see Defra and EU licences and insurance, as many Folkestone Taxi companies operate without them.

  7. Check if they have some sort of formal training.

  8. Always believe in your instincts. If you feel something is wrong or the offers are too good to be true, there may be a high chance of a scam.

  9. Consider the information provided on online communities on social media. They will provide you with recommendations and reviews of the company you are dealing with. Connecting with other pet owners who have used the same service is an ideal way of avoiding the risk of scams.

  10. Talk to the potential scammer company and ask questions. If their questions revolve around the money, take a step back. This is because many scammers do not care about pets; they find the chance to get money. 

What Our Happy Clients Say
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Repatriation after 16 years.
After 16 years living & working overseas, we recently repatriated from Hong Kong to Somerset, Wow, what can we say about Darren,  apart from running a great legitimate & fully licensed business, with all requisite knowledge of the trade & border formalities, Darren showed absolute care & consideration not only to his paying customers, but also our furry friends. Nothing short of SUPERB, 10/10.  It’s not easy moving 10,000km, but this leg of the journey, whilst long, was utterly seamless & ultimately stress-free.

Iain Brymer, HK

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Great Service

"We live in Oman and from a rescue organisation we brought 2 dogs (rescues) and a cat back with us to the Netherlands. Darren and his wife met us at the arrival hall and drove them to their forever homes in the UK. The communication went smoothly and we all received updates on their well-being.  It was a pleasant experience for all! Can highly recommend the service.”

Maggie, NL

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An absolute trooper

Sunderland to Plymouth

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Great price, very competitive. Our cats arrived totally chilled, didn't seem bothered about the journey at all. Darren was also very understanding and easy to deal with.  It all went really smoothly and he didn't even need to take us up on the offer of a cup of tea when he arrived!  Also, I'm pretty certain that if anyone tried to nab the cats, it wouldn't have gone well for them! 

Rob, GB

Click to see all our reviews.  

  • Does My Pet Have to Be with Other Pets?
    No. We offer options where your pet can travel exclusively with pets from your own family or even alongside you as the owner. This allows for a more personalised and stress-free experience for both pets and owners.
  • Do Owners Have to Travel with Their Pets?
    While pets generally experience less stress when travelling with their owners, we understand that it's not always feasible. Therefore, we also offer a dedicated service where pets can travel alone, ensuring they are well-cared for even without the owner's presence.
  • Does My Dog Have to Be in a Crate?
    Not necessarily. We appreciate the company of well-behaved dogs and allow them to sit with their owners, provided they are harnessed and securely hooked in. This ensures safety while allowing some freedom for the dog to relax.
  • Why Are Some Transporters Offering a Pet to Travel for £600 from Spain to the UK?
    This rate is typically offered by transporters who operate multi-pet transport services, meaning your pet would travel with several others. Our approach differs as we prioritise the welfare of animals by not crowding them with many others, which we believe is more conducive to their well-being.
  • I Want to Bring a Puppy to the UK. What Should I Know?
    Importing a puppy to the UK should be handled by a commercial importer to ensure compliance with all regulations. It's risky to accept services from those who are not certified as commercial importers, as there is a possibility of the puppy being impounded upon arrival due to improper documentation or procedures.
  • I Have Been Offered Cheap Transport. Why Should I Not Take the Offer?
    Be very careful. It's estimated that 80% of pet transport companies operating in the EU might be doing so illegally. Many people have encountered problems with such services and end up needing rescue operations. Always verify the transporter's licence and legal status before engaging their services.
  • Do Pet Transportation Companies Need to Be Licensed?
    Yes, licensing is required for pet transportation companies both in the EU and the UK. Some necessary licences include: Driver Competence Certificate Vehicle Inspection Certificate DEFRA Operators License EU Operators License EU Vehicle Inspection Certificate Additionally, proper insurance for hire and reward must be in place to operate legally. Many unlicensed taxi services might offer pet transportation without these credentials, which means their insurance might also be invalid. Always ensure that any service you consider has all the required licence and insurance to avoid legal and safety issues.
  • How long does it take for my pet to be transported via road?
    The duration of transport depends on the distance to be covered, and it varies from one location to another. However, we offer estimated timelines based on the pickup and delivery locations provided. This way, you can have a better idea of the expected duration for your pet's transport.
  • How do I prepare my pet for transportation?
    You should ensure that your pet is up-to-date on their vaccinations, has identification tags, and is crate-trained. Our pet transport service will provide you with more specific instructions depending on the mode of transport.
  • What documents are required for my pet's transportation?
    You will need to provide proof of ownership, vaccination records, and any necessary travel documents. As a dependable pet transportation services we will share with you a detailed list of required documents for your specific situation.
  • How much does it cost to transport my pet?
    The cost of dog and cat transport services depends on several factors such as the chosen mode of transport, distance to be covered, and size of your beloved pet. Rest assured, we will provide you with a detailed quote that takes into account these specific requirements.
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