Traveling & Immigrating with Pets

When traveling & immigrating with pets, it’s essential to plan for the well-being and comfort of your four legged family members. This can be a complex process, but with careful planning and preparation you can ensure a smooth journey for all. Researching entry requirements, choosing pet-friendly airlines, crate training, and consulting with a veterinarian are crucial steps to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the pet import regulations of your destination country.

Many countries have established processes and regulations for importing pets, making the transition easier. However, it’s important to remember that import requirements may change, so always verify the latest regulations before making travel arrangements. By following these tips and selecting a pet-friendly destination, you can embark on a new adventure with your beloved pets by your side.

Tips for Traveling with Pets

When it comes to traveling with pets, planning & research is key:

• Start Early: Begin the planning process well in advance to ensure you have enough time to meet all the necessary requirements for traveling with pets.
• Research Entry Requirements: Each country has specific entry requirements for pets, including vaccination records, health certificates, and microchipping. Thoroughly research the regulations of your destination country and consult with a veterinarian to ensure you have all the necessary paperwork in order.
• Choose Pet-Friendly Airlines: Look for airlines that have pet-friendly policies and services. Some airlines allow pets to travel in-cabin, while others transport them below the airplane deck as cargo. Select an airline that prioritizes the safety and well-being of pets and provides comfortable travel options.
• Crate Training: Help your pet become familiar and comfortable with their travel crate well in advance of the journey. Gradually increase the duration of time spent in the crate to reduce stress during travel.
• Visit the Vet: Schedule a visit to the veterinarian for a health check-up and to ensure your pet is fit for travel. Discuss any concerns or specific requirements related to your pet’s well-being during the journey.
• Pack Essentials: Pack a travel kit for your pet, including food, water, medications, familiar toys or bedding, and any necessary documentation. Having these items readily available will help keep your pet comfortable and stress-free during the journey.

Dog Breed Restrictions

Before traveling or immigrating, it’s also important to see what countries have breed restrictions. Some countries may also not have any restrictions, but certain cities or regions may. These are just a few examples of some complications in otherwise pet-friendly countries:

• Canada has no countrywide bans, but both Manitoba & Ontario have bans on specific breeds in their provinces.
• Spain is another country without bans, but several breeds have restrictions on them. This could include needing a license, placing a muzzle on your pet in public, etc.
• While not currently restricted, The Netherlands is discussing banning “flat-faced dogs or cats with folded ears.” This will include King Charles Spaniels and French Bulldogs, for instance. Norway has a ban on breeding these types of dogs, but ownership or importing of these breeds is not banned.

Easiest Countries to Import Pets

Laws are constantly changing & each country has their own checklist. Check out the USDA’s site and US Department of State for more information.

• The United Kingdom has straightforward import procedures for pets, including dogs, cats, and ferrets. Pets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have an official health certificate.
• Germany has relatively lenient regulations for importing pets. Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by an official health certificate.
• Ireland has pet-friendly regulations and allows the import of dogs, cats, and ferrets. Pets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and have an official health certificate.
• Japan has specific import requirements for pets, including microchipping, vaccination against rabies, and a health certificate. Additionally, pets must undergo a quarantine period upon arrival.
• While Australia has stringent import regulations to protect its unique ecosystem, it is still possible to import pets. The process involves thorough planning, including quarantine arrangements, microchipping, vaccination, and health checks.
• France has relatively lenient import requirements for pets. Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by an official health certificate.
• Spain welcomes pets and has clear import procedures. Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and possess an official health certificate.
• While New Zealand has strict biosecurity measures, it is possible to import pets. The process involves thorough planning, including microchipping, vaccination against rabies and other diseases, a health check, and a minimum 10-day quarantine upon arrival.