Moving abroad is an exciting adventure. New cultures to explore, fresh experiences to be had, and countless memories to be made. But for those of us with pets, the thrill of relocating can come with a fair bit of worry about bringing their beloved furry friends. Pets aren’t just animals; they’re part of the family. Whether you’ve got a cheeky dog or an inquisitive cat, making sure they’re comfy and safe during the big move is a top priority. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps and considerations for moving a pet internationally to popular destinations like the United Kingdom, the United States, and Singapore.
Pets are family too
For many of us, our pets are a huge part of our everyday lives. They’re the ones who greet us with excitement after a long day, offer a bit of comfort when things get tough, and keep us laughing with their cheeky antics. When it comes to planning an international move, leaving them behind just isn’t on the cards. The bond we have with our pets makes their well-being just as important as our own during these big life changes. Moving can be overwhelming for our furry friends—new surroundings, a shift in routine, and even different weather can throw them off. Keeping them comfortable and stress-free is key to making the whole transition as smooth as possible.
Help them feel more secure
Just like us, pets can feel the stress of moving too. The disruption of their familiar surroundings, meeting new people, and adjusting to different smells and sounds can be overwhelming. Dogs might show signs of anxiety by barking excessively or becoming unusually clingy. Cats, on the other hand, may hide or exhibit changes in their eating habits. It’s essential to recognise these signs and address them promptly.
To make things easier on them, ease into travel-related activities well ahead of time. Take them on short car trips, get them used to being in a crate, and familiarise them with their travel carrier. And don’t forget to pack their favourite toys or bedding—having something familiar during the move can really help them feel more secure.
Moving procedures
United Kingdom
Moving to the UK with pets involves several regulations to ensure the safety and health of all animals. The UK has strict quarantine laws, especially concerning rabies. To avoid lengthy quarantines, ensure your pet meets the following requirements:
Vaccinations and microchipping
Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip. This should be done before any vaccinations. Your pet will also need a rabies vaccination, administered at least 21 days before travel and after the microchip implantation.
Pet passport or health certificate
A pet passport or an official veterinary certificate is required, detailing your pet’s vaccination history and health status. This document is crucial for entry into the UK and should be obtained from a vet authorised by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA).
Tapeworm treatment
For dogs, a tapeworm treatment is mandatory. This must be administered by a vet and recorded in the pet passport or health certificate between one and five days before entering the UK.
United States
The United States offers a more flexible approach to pet relocation, but there are still essential steps to follow to ensure a smooth move.
Health certificate
A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel is required. This certificate must confirm that your pet is healthy and fit to fly. Some states may have additional requirements, so it’s essential to check state-specific regulations beforehand.
Rabies vaccination
All pets must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before travel. Ensure your pet’s rabies vaccination certificate is current and signed by a licensed veterinarian.
Quarantine regulations
While the US does not generally require quarantine for pets, certain states or territories, such as Hawaii and Guam, have stricter regulations. Make sure to verify the specific requirements based on your final destination within the US.
Singapore
Singapore has stringent regulations to ensure the health and safety of all animals entering the country. Planning well in advance is key to a seamless relocation.
Import permit
An import permit from the Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) of Singapore is required. Apply for this permit at least 30 days before your pet’s arrival.
Quarantine requirements
Singapore mandates a minimum 10-day quarantine period for pets arriving from most countries. However, if your pet is from a country recognised as rabies-free, the quarantine period may be reduced or waived.
Vaccinations and blood tests
Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies at least six months before travel. Additionally, a blood titre test is required to ensure sufficient rabies antibodies. This test must be conducted at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
Planning timeframe and essential steps
When planning an international move with your pets, time management is crucial. Start the process at least six months in advance to ensure all vaccinations, permits, and paperwork are in order. Here’s a general timeline to help you stay on track:
Six months before moving
- Research the pet import regulations for your destination country.
- Schedule an appointment with your vet to discuss the necessary vaccinations and health checks.
- Begin crate training if your pet is not already accustomed to a travel carrier.
Three months before moving
- Obtain the required vaccinations and microchip your pet if not already done.
- Apply for any necessary import permits.
- Schedule a follow-up vet appointment to ensure all documents are up-to-date.
One month before moving
- Obtain the health certificate from your vet.
- Administer any additional treatments, such as tapeworm medication for dogs.
- Confirm travel arrangements with your airline, ensuring they are aware of your pet’s travel plans.
Moving overseas with your furry mates might feel a bit daunting, but with careful planning and preparation, it can be a smooth and stress-free ride. Just remember, your pets are counting on you to keep them safe and comfy throughout the process. By following the guidelines outlined above, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the complexities of international pet relocation.
Crown Australia guides you through every step of the international pet relocation process, tailoring services to your and your pet’s unique needs and timeframes. This way, you can feel confident that your pet will have a safe and successful relocation.
