Gizane Campos For many pet owners, their cats or dogs are just as close to them as their immediate family members.
When moving abroad, there is always the agonizing decision of whether to move your pets with you to a new country or leave them behind to find a new home.
Though pet shipping can be a complex and emotional process, there is a consensus that it’s better in the long run for your fur baby to move with you.
To ease pet owners’ minds about the intricacies of pet transport overseas, we’ve compiled a guide that takes you through:
What Is International Pet Relocation?
This is the process of relocating or moving pets, such as dogs, cats and ferrets, across international borders, ensuring adherence to country-specific regulations and procedures.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re moving with the help of a Citizenship by Investment program or via naturalization, how you ship pets will depend on your budget and personal preferences.
You can either hire professional international pet transport services that can handle the whole process and documentation, or you can do it yourself.
Hiring a pet transportation services is more costly but removes the stress of planning. Doing it yourself is more cost-effective but will take more effort with regards to figuring out the logistics and regulations.
Key Requirements for Shipping a Pet Abroad
1. Health Certificate, Microchip and Vaccinations
Pets will require an ISO-compliant microchip for identification. Meeting ISO standards is crucial as it enables the chip to be scannable in any country.
Vaccinations are a crucial step and the most common one required is rabies. However, some countries will need vaccinations for parvovirus, distemper, leptospirosis and other diseases.
Keep in mind that sometimes there’s a waiting period in between the vaccination being given and when an animal is allowed to travel.
A licensed veterinarian must examine your pet beforehand to issue a health certificate that serves as confirmation that your pet is healthy enough to travel.
Some countries may require deworming and flea or tick treatments before travel.
2. Import and Export Permits
Some countries may require either an import or export permit or both.
It’s important to check each country’s specific regulations to see whether these are needed and how to acquire them.
3. Travel Crate Requirements
The crate in which your pet will be traveling must comply with International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations. These are as follows:
1. Size and Dimensions
- The crate must be large enough for the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- It should have at least 5 cm (2 inches) clearance above the pet’s head when standing.
2. Material and Structure
- Must be rigid and escape-proof, made of strong plastic, fiberglass, or metal.
- The door must be securely locked with a spring-loaded or sliding mechanism.
- Soft-sided carriers are only allowed for in-cabin travel.
3. Ventilation
- At least two sides of the crate must have ventilation holes.
- The holes should be small enough to prevent the pet from escaping or getting stuck.
4. Flooring
- The base must be leak-proof and lined with absorbent material (e.g., pee pads, blankets).
- No wheels allowed unless they can be removed or locked.
5. Food and Water Containers
- Must include separate, securely attached food and water bowls, accessible from outside.
6. Labels and Identification
- “Live Animal” labels must be attached in letters at least 1-inch tall.
- The crate must have a contact label with the pet owner’s name, address, and phone number.
4. Quarantine Regulations
Some countries (e.g., Australia, New Zealand, and the UK) impose quarantine periods upon arrival. Quarantine duration depends on the country of origin and pet vaccination status.
EU Pet Passport
A pet passport isn’t always a physical document such as those for humans. For example, in the USA, a pet passport refers to a collection of documents and no physical item is issued.
The European Union (EU), however, does supply a pet passport. Unfortunately, despite many of us seeing our pets as part of the family, your cat, dog or ferret will not be sitting down for a photo.
What Is an EU Pet Passport?
An EU pet passport is an official document that allows dogs, cats, and ferrets to travel freely within the European Union and some other participating countries.
It includes key details about the pet, such as identification information, vaccination records, and pet owner details.
The passport simplifies travel by ensuring pets meet the necessary health and safety requirements without the need for additional permits or quarantines in most cases.
Step-By-Step Guide to Obtaining an EU Pet Passport
Microchip your pet: Ensure your pet has an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip for identification.- Do necessary vaccinations: Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies after being microchipped, with the details recorded in the passport. In some countries, additional vaccinations are required. Check the destination country’s requirements to make sure.
- Visit an authorized veterinarian: Get a health certificate from an accredited veterinarian as they are the only ones that can issue an EU pet passport.
- Complete passport details: The vet will fill in details such as the pet’s microchip number, vaccination records, and owner information.
- Get additional treatments (if required): Some countries require additional treatments, such as tapeworm treatment for dogs traveling to certain destinations.
- Receive your EU pet passport: Once all requirements are met, you will receive the pet passport, which remains valid as long as vaccinations are kept up to date.
Microchip your pet: Ensure your pet has an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip for identification.Countries That Accept the EU Pet Passport
The EU pet passport is accepted in all 27 EU member states as well as additional countries and territories that comply with EU pet travel regulations. These include:
- EEA countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.
- EU member states: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.
- Non-EU, Non-EEA: Switzerland
The UK no longer issues EU pet passports, but previously issued ones may still be accepted for travel from the EU into the UK.
Check out our list of 18 Golden Visa countries to help you decide on the perfect pet-friendly destination
Pet Relocation Checklist: Preparing Your Pet (and Yourself)
Essential Documents and Vet Checks
- Health Certificate: Obtain a veterinary health certificate issued within the required timeframe before travel (varies by destination).
- Vaccination Records: Ensure all required vaccinations (rabies, distemper, etc.) are up to date and documented.
- Microchip Information: Confirm your pet’s microchip is ISO-compliant and registered with current contact details.
- Import/Export Permits: Check if your destination requires special permits for pet entry.
- Medication and Prescriptions: Carry any necessary medications along with a vet’s prescription and dosage instructions.
What to Pack
- Travel Crate: Ensure it meets airline and safety standards before choosing the one you’re using. Before the departure date, place the crate in your home so that it’s not a new thing you’re introducing on the day. Put their favorite bedding and toys inside so their smell is inside it and feed them treats around the crate, so they associate positive things with it.
- Food and Water: Pack enough for the journey itself as well as extra to account for potential delays. Using collapsible bowls for easy transport.
- Leash, Harness, and Collar: Remember to attach identification tags with your pet’s name and up-to-date contact details on it.
- Comfort Items: Bring a familiar blanket, toy, or bedding to ease stress.
- Waste Bags and Litter Supplies: If you have a cat, pack poop bags, litter, and a small portable litter box.
- Grooming Supplies: Include a brush, sanitary wipes, and any necessary grooming tools.
- First Aid Kit: Have basic supplies such as antiseptic wipes, bandages, and tweezers.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep contact details for vets at your destination.
Steps Before Departure
- Confirm Travel Arrangements: Double-check flight or transport reservations and reconfirm pet travel policies.
- Documentation: Have all documentation needed on hand to immediately present to officials and reduce the amount of time it takes to get through customs.
- Exercise: Take them for a walk or playtime before travelling to tire them out as it will be more likely for them to fall asleep during the trip.
- Bathroom Break: If you’re traveling with a dog, take them outside to go to the bathroom right before departure. If you’re traveling with a cat, you’ll need to set up the litter box in the airport bathroom or outside in a quiet area. Some airports even provide pet relief areas with fake grass, waste disposal facilities and more.
- Feed Lightly: Avoid feeding your pet a heavy meal right before travel to prevent discomfort during the flight.
- Hydration: Ensure they are well-hydrated but not overly full to reduce the need for bathroom breaks.
- Label Everything: Clearly label the travel crate with your contact information and pet’s details.
- Medication: Some pet parents give their cats or dogs anti-anxiety medication to relieve stress. If you have not done so in the past, ask your vet to prescribe medication that is specifically designed for animals (never give human medication unless instructed by your vet). Test it out a few weeks beforehand to see how your pet reacts and to familiarize them with the feeling.
Confirm Travel Arrangements: Double-check flight or transport reservations and reconfirm pet travel policies.Also, if your pet will be quarantined, find out which quarantine facility they will be housed at, how to get in contact with the facility as well as how long they will need to stay there.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Relocation
What is pet relocation?
Pet relocation is the professional transportation of pets, domestically or internationally, to a new home.
It includes managing complex regulations, health and vaccination documentation, flights, import and export licenses, and quarantine (if needed).
How much does pet relocation cost?
The cost of international pet transport can vary but it can start from $1,950 USD upwards. This is dependent on factors like pet type, travel distance, and additional services.
What documents are required for pet relocation?
For pet relocation, pet owners need a:
- microchip
- vaccination certificate
- health certificate
- import permit from the destination country
What are the requirements for pet air travel?
To fly with a pet, you’ll need:
- A valid health certificate from a veterinarian.
- Up-to-date vaccinations with proof.
- A suitable carrier that meets airline standards.
What is an EU pet passport, and how do I obtain one?
An EU pet passport is a standardized document for cats, dogs, and ferrets who are traveling within the European Union (EU) or from non-EU countries to the EU.
The EU pet passport contains health and vaccination records, can be obtained from an authorized veterinarian in the EU.
Can I travel to Europe with my pet without an EU pet passport?
When traveling to Europe from a non-EU country, an EU pet passport isn’t necessarily needed but you still require an Animal Health Certificate (AHC). However, if you’re traveling inside the EU, a pet passport is essential.
How long does it take to get an EU pet passport?
Getting an EU pet passport can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to process, depending on the requirements that need to be fulfilled and processes.
What is a pet passport in the USA and how do I get one?
A pet passport USA refers to the collection of documents needed to travel with your pet to another country.
It’s not necessarily a physical passport but rather all the require documents assembled, such as a health certificate, rabies vaccination proof and USDA endorsement.
What vaccinations are needed for a pet passport?
The most required vaccination is for rabies. There are some countries that might require vaccinations for distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus.
Which animals are not allowed to travel internationally?
In general, exotic animals, certain dog breeds, and brachycephalic (snub-nosed) animals, which can include bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats can be restricted.
Pregnant, nursing or very young animals, and animals that don’t meet health and safety requirements are often also not allowed to travel internationally. However, restrictions vary by country and airline.
What is the quarantine period for pets traveling internationally?
The quarantine period for pets traveling internationally can range from a few days (14 days is the most common duration) to several months as it varies by country and pet type.
Do pets need a microchip for international travel?
Yes, microchipping is a mandatory requirement for international pet travel as it’s needed to obtain a pet passport. Remember, it should comply with international ISO standards.
How do I transport an exotic pet internationally?
Since some countries restrict the travel of exotic pets, it’s necessary to get in contact with professional pet transportation services.
They will know whether it’s possible for them to enter the country, what the legalities and necessary documentation are and how to transport the pet as safely as possible.
Can I move abroad with multiple pets?
Yes, you can relocate multiple pets abroad as long as each animal meets the specific regulations of your destination country, including pet import licenses, vaccinations, and potential quarantine periods.
