Moving abroad is a huge commitment and an important milestone in your life. But, if you decide to bring your pet along for the adventure, there are some important considerations that you should take into account. This blog post looks at just a few of the factors that you should consider before relocating with your pet.
Research local animal laws and regulations
When you’re moving abroad with your furry friend in tow, it’s crucial that you take the time to familiarise yourself with the animal-specific laws and regulations of your destination before relocating. Every country has its own set of rules and regulations regarding pets, so it’s important to understand what they entail. For example, some countries have strict laws on the types of breeds allowed within their borders, whilst others may require certain vaccinations or health certificates prior to entry.
It’s important to remember that any rules regarding the importation of pets are always subject to change to reflect current health concerns. For instance, the U.S. Government currently has a ban on the importation of dogs from countries with a high risk of dog rabies, which has been extended to July 2023. So it’s always best to keep updated by researching local requirements and gathering all necessary documents prior to departure, as the requirements could change since you first started the planning process.
Choose the right form of transport
The method of transport you choose for your pet will depend on several factors such as their age, size, and temperament. For instance, older animals may not be able to handle long flights due to stress or health conditions, so other forms of transportation such as trains or cars may be more suitable. Additionally, larger animals may need special accommodations or even cargo shipping services when traveling abroad.
Whatever method of transportation you need to take, it’s always best to prepare your animal for the journey. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to take them on long-distance drives every other week – there are lots of simple things you can do that will help to make them feel more comfortable whilst traveling. For example, you will need to get them familiar with being in a crate, so leave the crate out and put some of their home comforts inside to encourage them to use it. Once they understand the crate is safe for them to sit in, they should be more comfortable using it for longer periods of time.
To help them feel as safe and comfortable as possible, there are several factors you should consider when planning how and when to travel. For instance, if you’re flying, try and find flights with fewer layovers, as they can be incredibly distressing for your pet. It’s also recommended to avoid extreme temperatures where possible when landing at your destination. So if you’re going somewhere that’s particularly hot, try and find an early morning or late night landing time to allow your pet more time to adjust.
Speak to the vets
Last and by no means least, you should always consult your vet before embarking on any long-distance travel with an animal. They will be able to provide the necessary advice about whether or not your pet is fit to travel, as well as some guidance on how you should approach the process. Your vet will also be able to provide you with your pet’s medical records, which will need to be up-to-date and in your possession wherever you travel to.
Another important consideration is finding a vet in your new home country who can provide routine check-ups and medical care for your pet once you arrive. Doing some research ahead of time will help ensure that you find a qualified vet who can provide quality care for your pet when needed – you can also ask your vet from home for any recommendations. Additionally, some vets may even be able to offer advice on local animal laws and regulations which can help make the transition smoother once you arrive in your new home country.
Conclusion
Moving abroad with a beloved pet can certainly add an extra layer of complexity to the process – but it doesn’t have to be daunting. With proper planning and preparation, relocating with a pet can go smoothly. Researching local animal laws, choosing the right form of transport, and finding a qualified vet in their new home country are just a few considerations that an owner should take into account when moving abroad with their beloved furry, feathery – or otherwise – friend.
