Why you need to mention your pet when you book
Here is the honest bit. Not every private hire driver can carry animals. Some have allergies, some have religious reasons, and some simply drive a car that is too small for a large dog. Assistance dogs are different, and the law says they must be carried at no extra charge.
For every other pet, the trick is planning. When you tell us about the animal at the time of booking, we match the job to a driver who is happy to take it. That is what makes the ride smooth. A dog that turns up unannounced can mean a long wait for a different car.
Pet transport around South London
Most pet journeys are short and local. People book us for vet appointments, grooming sessions, kennel and cattery drop-offs, and days out in the bigger green spaces.
- Vet visits in Crystal Palace, Norwood, Penge and Beckenham
- Grooming parlours and dog day care
- Kennels and catteries before a holiday
- Walks at Crystal Palace Park, Dulwich Park or Kelsey Park
- Moving home with a cat in a carrier
- Rescue centre adoptions and the first ride home
Longer trips are welcome too. If your dog is coming with you to visit family, we can quote a fixed fare for the full distance.
Minicab for vet appointments
Vet trips are the most common reason people book a dog friendly minicab. A poorly pet is stressful enough without trying to carry a large dog on a bus or a cat box onto a train.
If your pet has just had an operation or is unwell, let us know. The driver can take the corners more gently, leave extra time to get the animal in and out, and wait while you settle the bill if you ask for a return journey. Waiting time is charged at the agreed rate, and we tell you the cost before you book.
Emergency vet runs
Late night emergencies happen. Our booking line is open 24 hours, so call 020 8659 9000 and tell us it is urgent. We will give you an honest answer on how quickly a pet friendly driver can reach you.
Which car is best for my pet?
The size of the animal decides the car.
Small dogs and cats
A cat or small dog in a secure carrier fits in any saloon. The carrier sits on the back seat or in the footwell with you, and that is usually the calmest spot.
Medium and large dogs
Bigger dogs need room to lie down. An estate gives them the boot, with a pet guard if the driver has one fitted, or a blanket on the back seat. An MPV is even better for two dogs or a nervous dog that needs space.
More than one pet
Two cats, three dogs, or a family plus the dog plus the luggage usually means a 6 seater minicab or a 7 seater minicab. Tell us how many people and animals are travelling and we will suggest the right size.
Travelling with a dog in a minicab
A few simple habits make the trip easier for everyone.
- Keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier from door to car
- Bring a blanket or towel, especially after a muddy walk
- Take your dog out for a short walk before a long journey
- Keep cats in a secure carrier for the whole trip
- Bring water and a bowl for anything longer than half an hour
The Highway Code says animals should be suitably restrained in a vehicle so they cannot distract the driver or hurt you if the car stops quickly. A harness, crate or carrier does the job.
What if my pet makes a mess?
Accidents happen, especially with puppies and travel-sick dogs. Bring a towel and a few bags. If a car needs specialist cleaning after a journey, a cleaning charge may apply under our terms and conditions, and we will always discuss it with you first.
Moving home with pets
Moving day is chaotic for people and worse for pets. Cats in particular hate the noise, the boxes and the strangers. A lot of owners book a separate car just for the cat, so it can travel quietly to the new home while the removal van does its job.
Tell us the old and new addresses and the time you want to leave. We will fix the fare and send a driver who is used to animals. If you are moving further afield, we can quote for longer distances too.
Days out with the dog
South London has some brilliant places to walk a dog, and not all of them are close to a station. Crystal Palace Park, Dulwich Park, Streatham Common, Beckenham Place Park and the woods at Sydenham Hill are all popular. We drop you at the gate and collect you later at a set time, so you are not walking home with a tired, muddy dog.
For longer trips to the countryside or the coast, ask for a quote. A dog friendly car hire with driver can be a lot easier than trying to take a large dog on a crowded train.
Assistance dogs
Guide dogs and other assistance dogs are always carried, with no extra charge. You do not need to tell us in advance, but it helps if you do, as we can make sure the driver knows to expect you. If you ever have a problem with an assistance dog being refused, please contact us straight away.
Small animals and birds
It is not only cats and dogs. We have carried rabbits, guinea pigs, a tortoise in a box and a parrot in a covered cage. The rule is the same. Tell us what the animal is, keep it in a secure carrier and we will match you with a willing driver.
Book a pet friendly minicab
Use the booking form on this page and add your pet in the notes, or call 020 8659 9000. Tell us the type and size of the animal, how many pets are coming and whether they will be in a carrier. We fix the fare when you book and confirm the details by text or email.
Going further than the vet? Our hotel transfers and Crystal Palace to Stansted Airport transfers can be booked the same way, as long as you check your hotel or airline accepts pets.
