Are you planning on moving overseas (or at least spending a significant amount of time in a different country)?
Even for those moving apartments locally, it is hectic enough to plan it and then actually execute it on the D-day which is usually set apart for that one activity.
The moving process is stressful enough when you’re only moving yourself and your things. It’s taken to a whole other level when you have to consider bringing a pet along.
Your furry friend is important to you, so you want it to be by your side. But how do you navigate the process of international pet shipping? Travel with pets is complicated and it varies depending on where you’re going.
We want to help make the process smoother. When you need to travel with pets, you’ll be prepared. Keep reading to learn all about pet shipping and how you should prepare.
Check Country Requirements First
Did you know that different destination countries have different requirements when it comes to pet transportation and arrival? Some have quarantine restrictions, others have restrictions based on how your pet can travel. It’s crucial that you do your research ahead of time or you might make mistakes that can delay your travel or the arrival of your furry friend.
While we can’t possibly go into all of the countries’ restrictions, we’ll give a few examples from a more strict country so you can get a feel for the situation before you start your own research.
Australia, for example, has extensive restrictions in place.
They require the rabies neutralizing antibody titer test between 180 days and 24 months before your pet is allowed to travel. This means that you need to plan far in advance when you’re planning to move your pet! They also require a canine vaccination (if you have a dog) and another rabies vaccination.
Pets will also have to quarantine for ten days before they’re able to join you. You’re not allowed to travel with them in the cabin with you. They’re considered cargo.
Know Your Pet’s Individual Needs
You know your pet better than anyone, so consider what you think it will need when it comes to the travel process.
Some pets travel better than others. They’re good at settling in for long rides regardless of whether they’re in the cargo hold or in the cabin. Others have a harder time and need assistance (more on that later).
If you choose to let your pets travel in cargo, make sure that they have what they need for the long trip as you won’t be able to interact with them in the meantime. They need enough food and water to tide them over beforehand until you’re able to see them again.
Some airlines may have restrictions regarding what items your pets can and can not have with them, as well as the sizes of carriers.
Talk to Your Vet Before Starting the Process
You need to talk to your vet about traveling with your pet. Not only will they help you arrange all of the medical necessities, but they’ll also help you gauge whether or not your pet is in good enough condition to travel (and if it’s not, they’ll help you out).
Some vets may give your pets an anxiety medication or a motion sickness medication to make the traveling process easier on them. Pets aren’t made for air travel, so it’s stressful for them.
Your vet can also give you helpful guidance about the best practices for travel if you’re still confused, and they can make sure that you have all of the necessary paperwork to give to the destination country.
Consider the Risks
There are risks to transporting pets into new countries.
If you don’t do things right, you can find yourself in a difficult legal situation. Government authorities are within their rights to remove your pets from you to deport them, hold them, or even euthanize them. This is one of the reasons that it’s so important to do your research ahead of time so you don’t make any mistakes.
If you’re going to a country that requires that pets are kept in cargo, consider whether or not this is an acceptable option for you. The cargo hold of a plane that’s made for passengers isn’t the safest place for a pet.
It may get too warm or cold for a pet to stay comfortable, and the pet may get jostled around if there’s turbulence. There are no pet seatbelts in the cargo hold.
There’s also no way for you or anyone else to check on your pet to make sure it’s okay. International flights are long, so this is a huge risk.
Cargo gets lost and damaged all the time. While this isn’t a huge deal when it comes to belongings, it’s the last thing that you want to happen to your pet. Pets are family members.
So what can you do to make sure that you have the easiest and safest time transporting your friend?
There Are International Pet Shipping Services to Help You
There are special services available that help with pet transportation.
These services take care of all of the confusing details so you don’t have to. While they are an added expense, they only charge you for what you need in order to transport the pet to its destination. International pet shipping has never been easier.
They also help with the transportation process during the flight. They offer flight services that are safer than keeping your pet in the cargo. People are there to check up on your pets and make sure they’re as content as possible.
Again, while this is an added cost, it’s worthwhile if you want the best (and easiest) transportation process.
Traveling With a Pet? Preparation Is Key
International pet shipping is stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. With services available to help you and a bit of research, you’ll have your friend by your side in your destination country in no time. Don’t leave your pet behind when you move.
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