Whether by choice or for a job, moving abroad is a significant decision that necessitates careful consideration and preparation. This is especially true if you have pets with you. Relocating pets abroad isn’t nearly as simple as moving them domestically, and it’s not without stress for both humans and animals. You should be able to make things a little easier for both of you if you do your homework and schedule your step with your pet’s best interests in mind.
Keep in mind that moving abroad with pets is not something that can be done on the spur of the moment. Allow yourself time to dot your i’s and cross your t’s. It can be a lot to take on top of all of the other moving-related preparations you’ll have to do while relocating abroad, but you must complete all of the required steps. After all, your furry friend is counting on you to transport them to their new home safely. To make sure you’ve covered everything, read the tips below.
Investigate the pet import laws in the area where you’ll be relocating.
Pet import regulations in some countries are more stringent than in others. Regardless of where you’re going, you must learn all you can about the requirements for bringing pets into your new home country—especially because some countries don’t allow certain types of animals or only allow specific breeds. You’ll also need to know the general guidelines on what vaccinations are required, whether your pet needs to be microchipped (hint: your pet should always be microchipped), and whether a quarantine period is required. Contact the consulate of the country you’ll be moving to for the most up-to-date details.
Consult your veterinarian.
If you’re moving abroad with pets, your veterinarian will be one of your most valuable contacts. They’ll be able to express any questions they have about your pet making the long flight (young, senior, nervous, or sick animals do not travel in cargo), as well as assist you in getting your pet ready for travel. This may mean giving them anti-anxiety medication or making sure they’re up to date with all of their vaccines. They’ll also be able to assist you in fulfilling any health conditions imposed by the country to which you’re relocating.
Use the services of a pet relocation company.
If you’re worried about moving abroad with your pets on your own, some international moving company in Singapore will assist you. These companies will assist you with everything from ensuring that you obey all of your destination’s pet import laws to coordinating your pet’s travel. They also have success stories and advice from people who have gone before you, which can be a huge help when you’re nervous.
Call your airline.
Even if you haven’t booked your tickets yet, contact the airline you want to fly with and inquire about their pet-travel choices and policies. The airline may likely have additional travel regulations that the country you’re going to doesn’t, and they will also inform you about crate or carrier size requirements and what you and your pet can carry. If your pet is under a specific weight limit, you will be able to fly in-cabin with you (they will remain in their carrier under the seat in front of you).
Organize all of your documents.
Make sure you have all of the paperwork you’ll need. This may include proof of your pet’s rabies vaccination or other vaccines, a letter from your veterinarian approving them for travel, or other documents required by your airline and the country you’re travelling to. Have many copies on hand, and double-check that all is signed correctly. Paperwork that is missing or incomplete can cause costly delays. Worse, it’s possible that your pet will be turned away either before the flight or when you arrive at your new home’s customs.
Do you have a pet that isn’t a cat or a dog?
Although the advice above is geared toward dogs and cats, it applies to all species. If you’re transporting a less common pet, such as a bird, reptile, or small animal, make sure you read the basic criteria for that animal while doing your research. Failure to do so could result in the loss of vital information. Since not all countries accept all types of animals, your first step should be to confirm that your pet is permitted to travel. After that, start looking into the details of health requirements, travel requirements, and whether a quarantine period will be needed.
