Are you planning an international move but can’t bear the thought of leaving your furry friend behind?
Relocating to a new country is challenging enough without having to worry about your beloved pet. However, with a little bit of thoughtful preparation and paying particular attention to the key points, the move can turn out to be easy and tension-free for both of you.
Traveling with your pet on your global trip means that you are still able to have your whole family together not only through a great adventure but during such a change in life. Although this entails more work, the thought of seeing your companion’s wagging tail or purring as you cuddle makes everything worth it.
This detailed guide will show you how to make sure that your pet will be able to travel safely to the new destination you have decided for bringing it.
How to Take Your Pet With You When You’re Moving Abroad
Transporting your pet to a foreign country is not an easy task, but diligent planning and preparation can help you and your dear pet go through the transition without a hitch.
Research Pet Travel Requirements
The very first thing to do is to study and thoroughly research the requirements and rules of the country that you import your pet in. Each country may have its own regulations, and owners are expected to observe certain requisites such as vaccination record, microchipping, health certificate, or quarantine period (depending on the scheme in that particular country). Before you go there, get acquainted with the rules that will make you shocked especially if they are new to you.
Consult Your Veterinarian
Set up a meeting with your vet to help you decide how to ensure your pet has the proper health documents in place and also the required vaccinations. The role of your veterinary doctor in the process will be keeping you focused on the process and certifying that your pet is compliant with all vaccine phrases needed, and also documenting any related health certificates needed for travel abroad.
Secure Proper Travel Documentation
The next step, after getting all of the paperwork from the veterinarian, is to have the official health certificate endorsed by your USDA-accredited state veterinarian. This certificate document is to show that your pet is in good health condition and meets the import requirements as per destination country’s laws.
Moreover, ask for the special pet breed and species permits, if applicable.
Select the Correct Pet Carrier
Having a good travel carrier that is airline-approved becomes very important when it comes to the safety and comfort of the pet during air travel. Be sure that the carrier has enough vents and the structure is tight. The carrier should also be big enough for your pet to stand up on, move around, and lie down on the bottom. Put your pet through this carrier a few weeks before your vacation date to help it get used to it. This will definitely reduce its stress and anxiety levels.
Book Pet-Friendly Transportation
As you plan your journey, ensure that the airline, train or cruise line you select carries pets and has pet-friendly features. Some airlines can limit the amount of four-legged friends per flight, and also charge extra costs of pet transportation. Reserve the seat for your pet right away and find out in advance what kind of documents or stuff excepting a ticket you may need at the airport to process your pet’s check in.
Devise a Plan and the First Week after Landing
At the time of your arrival at the destination, it is important to prepare for any quarantine periods or further examinations from local authorities. Be sure to provide the details for animal-friendly hotels, boarding facilities, or kennels in the case you need to have alternative arrangements.
Lastly, it is necessary to try and locate local veterinarians, pet supply stores, and emergency clinics in the area where you intend to relocate and ensure that your pet gets the proper care and attention required.
Get Your Pet Exposed to the New Environment
If you usually take a cautious approach, try to be more systematic as you adopt a new home for your pet. This will help you to reduce the stress and anxiety in pets. Provide a comfort zone by their bedding, toy, and familiar smells in the set up. The sole purpose is to bring back a sense of the familiar to them.
Go around your neighborhood led by your dog, making sure that your dog takes the time it needs to get used to new surroundings visually and aurally. Be patient and show your child plenty of love and promise to help through the difficult first days after the transition.
Maintain Routine and Consistency
Routine is what a pet enjoys most. They try to maintain a normal schedule as much as possible. It is advisable to keep meal times, walks and play time uniforms to make them accustomed to the new environment.
Think of using the help of a pet sitter or perhaps a wide choice of doggy daycare agencies in order to aid your pet to get the necessary adjustments as far as the new schedule and surroundings are concerned.