Moving Abroad with Your Pet: A Complete Guide for LGBTQ+ Expats
For many queer expats, relocating internationally means moving with every beloved family member—including pets. Our clients regularly tell us they wouldn’t consider a move if it meant leaving their furry friends behind. So, we’ve created this thorough guide to help you navigate the process of relocating your pet with ease and confidence.
Is Your Pet Ready for the Journey?
Relocating a pet internationally is a big decision and involves much more than buying a crate and a plane ticket. Here’s what you need to think about:
Check Your Pet’s Health and Suitability for Travel: Pets with certain medical conditions or anxiety levels may face more challenges. Have a vet evaluate your pet's health to ensure they’re ready to travel.
Breed Considerations: Certain breeds, especially those with shorter snouts, are more prone to respiratory issues during flights. These breeds may need specific travel accommodations or could be restricted by certain airlines and countries.
Crate Training and Comfort: Crate training well in advance of travel is vital. Helping your pet get comfortable with their crate will make for a less stressful experience for them. Some folks do just incorporate sleepytime medicine to keep their pets less than awake during the ride…. But it depends on the health of your pet, of course.
Pet Relocation Essentials: What to Expect
A professional pet relocation service can handle much of the logistical work involved in international pet moves. These services cover every detail from flight booking to documentation, customs processing, and even delivering your pet to your new home. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into a typical relocation:
Door-to-Door Service: A professional pet relocation service often handles everything from pickup at your current home to delivery at your new one.
Documentation and Legal Requirements: Each country has specific rules and paperwork for bringing in pets. Pet relocation experts make sure everything is in order, saving you from unexpected delays.
Ensuring Your Pet’s Comfort and Safety
Relocating a pet internationally requires careful attention to their needs and comfort:
Selecting a Flight and Airline: Not all airlines are created equal when it comes to pet-friendliness. Airlines like KLM and Lufthansa have programs to handle pet cargo with climate-controlled environments.
Specialized Crate Considerations for At-Risk Breeds: For breeds with respiratory sensitivities, like bulldogs and pugs, a well-ventilated crate with extra clearance is essential. Get your pet used to the crate in advance, and be sure they stay hydrated before and after the flight.
Airport Facilities for Pets: Many pet-friendly airlines have hubs with facilities where pets can rest, eat, and receive vet attention if necessary.
Understanding Global Pet Relocation Standards
Many reputable pet relocation companies are affiliated with organizations like the Independent Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA). This membership ensures they meet high standards for safety, ethics, and service, so it’s a great starting point when selecting a relocation service.
Import Rules and Quarantine Requirements
Each country has its own regulations and requirements, and some destinations require quarantine. Here’s what you need to know. It is important to thoroughly research the specific rules for your destination country, as regulations can differ greatly depending on the location and the type of animal being transported. Consulting with a professional pet relocation service can help navigate the complex process and ensure compliance with all necessary regulations.
Quarantine Requirements: Certain countries, such as Australia and Singapore, require quarantine periods for pets. However, these facilities are clean, climate-controlled, and sometimes allow visits.
Alternative Options for Quarantine: For some destinations, pets can fulfill quarantine requirements before leaving your home country by meeting health requirements such as rabies vaccinations and antibody tests.
When moving abroad with dogs and cats, there are several common import requirements that need to be met to ensure the smooth and legal entry of your pet into a new country. While rules can vary by country, here is a general list of what typically needs to happen:
Microchipping
Most countries require that pets be microchipped before arrival. The microchip must be ISO 11784/11785 compliant, which ensures it can be read worldwide. This is a permanent method of identification for your pet.
Vaccinations
Rabies Vaccination: Nearly all countries require proof of a valid rabies vaccination. The vaccine must usually be administered at least 21 days before travel, and there are often age and timing restrictions. Some countries may have specific brands or formulations of the rabies vaccine that are accepted.
Other Vaccinations: Depending on the destination, other vaccinations may be required or recommended, such as distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, and feline leukemia for cats.
Veterinary Health Certificate
A health certificate, issued by a licensed veterinarian, is required to confirm that your pet is healthy and free from contagious diseases. The certificate typically needs to be issued within 7 to 10 days before departure and from the USDA or other qualified national body.
It should include details of vaccinations, microchip number, and a statement confirming the pet’s general health.
Rabies Titer Test (Blood Test)
For certain countries, such as the European Union or Australia, pets may need to undergo a rabies titer test (blood test) to prove that their rabies vaccination is effective. The blood test should be done 21 days after vaccination and needs to be processed by an accredited laboratory.
A specific minimum titer level is required for entry.
Tapeworm Treatment (for Dogs)
Countries like the UK and Ireland require dogs to be treated for tapeworms before entering. The treatment must be administered by a veterinarian 24 to 120 hours (1 to 5 days) before entering the country.
Import Permit or Entry Permit
Some countries require an import permit to bring in animals. This permit may need to be applied for weeks in advance and will outline the health and documentation requirements.
Customs Clearance and Inspection
Upon arrival, pets are typically subject to customs inspection. Customs officials may review your paperwork and perform health checks to ensure that the pet meets the country's import requirements. Some countries have specific veterinary clinics at the airport for this purpose.
Arrival at the Port of Entry
Upon arrival, pets are usually inspected at a designated customs checkpoint or veterinary facility. You may need to present the necessary documents, such as the health certificate, vaccination records, and microchip identification.
Some countries also require proof of payment for any applicable import taxes or quarantine fees.
Post-Arrival Requirements (if applicable)
After your pet has entered the country, there may be additional health checks, microchip scans, or veterinary visits required within a certain timeframe. Some countries require pet owners to report their animals to local authorities or veterinary offices.
Cost Considerations for Pet Relocation
The expenses involved in moving a pet vary widely depending on location, airline fees, and local laws. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:
Airline Cargo Fees: Airlines usually charge by the weight of the crate and pet combined. This can make for a pricey ticket, especially for larger animals.
Documentation, Health Certificates, and Customs Fees: Documentation and import/export fees vary by country. Make sure you know what documentation is required, and account for vet exams and health certificates.
Ground Transport Costs: If you’re moving to or from a location without major international airports, additional fees may apply for ground transport to reach the nearest customs-cleared location.
Preparing Your Pet for the Move
Getting your pet accustomed to their crate well in advance can help ease stress on moving day:
Crate Training: The more comfortable your pet is with their travel crate, the less stress they’ll experience in transit. Start by having your pet spend increasing amounts of time in the crate, with positive reinforcement and treats.
Health and Wellness Preparations: Schedule a health check with your vet to ensure your pet is fit for travel and meets all vaccination requirements.
Plane Travel Options for Pets
There are three ways pets can fly:
In-Cabin (Small Pets Only): Some airlines allow small pets to travel with their owners in the cabin. However, weight restrictions usually apply, so this option is only suitable for pets that can fit under the seat.
Checked Baggage (Accompanied Cargo): Pets can travel in a climate-controlled cargo hold as checked baggage, which is a common choice for medium to large dogs.
Manifest Cargo (Unaccompanied Cargo): Some pets travel as manifest cargo, often when owners cannot be on the same flight. This method requires careful planning with a pet relocation service.
Import Laws and Pet Relocation Restrictions
Customs laws and import restrictions vary, and some countries enforce strict controls on what animals can enter. This is especially true for exotic pets or breeds with specific bans. An experienced pet relocation agency can ensure compliance with these laws, and help you arrange alternative options if needed.
Breed-Specific Considerations for International Pet Relocation
Some breeds face unique challenges during air travel, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities or specific physical traits. Being aware of these breed-specific needs can help you plan a safe and comfortable move for your pet.
Snub-Nosed Dog Breeds: Dogs with shorter snouts, like bulldogs and pugs, often have difficulty breathing in high-stress situations, including air travel. Their delicate respiratory systems are more prone to issues due to confined crate spaces and pressure changes during flights. Extra precautions for these breeds include using a larger crate with four-sided ventilation, scheduling shorter flights, and consulting with a vet for additional health checks.
Common At-Risk Dog Breeds:
Boston Terrier
Boxer
Brussels Griffon
Bull Terrier
Dutch Bulldog
English Bulldog
French Bulldog
Japanese Chin
Lhasa Apso
Pekingese
Shih Tzu
At-Risk Cat Breeds: Just like their canine counterparts, certain cat breeds with flatter faces or respiratory sensitivities may face challenges when traveling. Cats can also be highly anxious during travel, so planning crate acclimation and shorter travel routes for at-risk breeds is essential.
Common At-Risk Cat Breeds:
Himalayan
Persian
High-Anxiety Pets: Pets with naturally high anxiety levels may struggle during air travel or in new environments, especially if they haven’t been crate-trained. Consider consulting with your vet about safe calming options and gradually crate-training your pet before travel.
Each of these breeds can still travel internationally with proper planning and care. By working with a knowledgeable pet relocation service, you can ensure that your pet’s breed-specific needs are managed to make their journey as safe and comfortable as possible.
How Pet Relocation Services Work
Pet relocation services take the stress out of moving pets internationally by handling the complex logistics, paperwork, and safety requirements involved. Here's an overview of how these services generally work:
Consultation and Planning: The process typically begins with a consultation to understand your specific needs, your pet’s requirements, and any country-specific regulations. Based on this, pet relocation experts create a custom plan for your pet's move, including flight arrangements, necessary paperwork, and quarantine reservations if needed.
Health Checks and Documentation: Pet relocation companies guide you through required health checks, vaccinations, and paperwork, such as health certificates, import permits, and, if applicable, microchipping. They ensure all documents meet the legal requirements of both the departure and destination countries, preventing potential delays or complications at customs.
Crate Selection and Crate Training: Proper crate selection is essential for safe transport, especially for snub-nosed or anxious pets. Many pet relocation services provide travel crates with appropriate ventilation and comfort features. They may also offer tips or even crate-training services to help pets adjust to their temporary travel quarters.
Flight Coordination: Pet relocation companies work with pet-friendly airlines and arrange the safest travel routes, with minimal layovers when possible. They secure space in climate-controlled cargo holds or, if allowed, arrange for pets to travel in the cabin. Direct flights are preferred, but experienced companies select routes with facilities for pet care, ensuring your pet’s well-being throughout the journey.
Customs and Import Assistance: On arrival, pets must clear customs, and relocation companies handle all the logistics. They arrange customs clearance, manage import fees, and ensure smooth handling at the airport, including coordinating with local animal transport specialists if necessary.
Quarantine Management: If your destination country requires quarantine, pet relocation services help make arrangements in advance, booking spots in approved facilities and keeping you informed of any visitation opportunities.
Door-to-Door Service: Some pet relocation companies offer complete door-to-door service, picking up your pet from your home and delivering them to your new address. They coordinate every step of the journey so you can focus on settling into your new home, knowing your pet is being safely transported.
Using a pet relocation service provides expertise and peace of mind, especially with the numerous regulations and health requirements involved in international pet travel. They work to ensure your pet arrives at their new home safely, comfortably, and in compliance with all legal requirements.
Pet Relocation Companies and Services
IPATA (International Pet and Animal Transportation Association)
About: IPATA is a network of certified pet relocation specialists worldwide, setting ethical standards in the industry. Through its membership directory, you can find trusted companies that provide pet relocation services.
Services: Customs handling, door-to-door relocation, and coordination with international partners.
Website: ipata.org
Bark Air
About: A pet-friendly airline offering dedicated animal transport options. Known for its climate-controlled pet cargo holds, Bark Air caters specifically to pets, ensuring a safe and stress-free journey.
Services: Cargo-only flights for pets, climate-controlled environments, and pet-friendly policies throughout the journey.
Website: air.bark.co
PetRelocation
About: This popular company provides full-service pet relocation, handling everything from paperwork to flight bookings.
Services: Consultation on travel logistics, arranging flights, quarantine booking, crate training support, and customs paperwork.
Website: petrelocation.com
Air Animal Pet Movers
About: With over 40 years of experience, Air Animal provides personalized pet moving services around the globe.
Services: Door-to-door pet relocation, health and import/export documentation management, and relocation counseling.
Website: airanimal.com
Pet Express
About: Known for its focus on safety and comfort, Pet Express offers customized solutions for international pet moves.
Services: International pet transport, travel crate provision, veterinary documentation, and quarantine support.
Website: pet-express.com
Pawsome Pets Travel
About: Pawsome Pets Travel specializes in international relocation for pets and offers personalized support for at-risk breeds.
Services: Pet travel planning, specialized crates for snub-nosed breeds, health documentation, and customs clearance.
Website: pawsomepetstravel.com
KLM Cargo – Animal Hotel
About: KLM is one of the leading airlines in pet transportation, with specialized facilities at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam.
Services: Temperature-controlled animal hotel, short stays, food and water supply, and on-site veterinary services.
Website: klm.com
United Airlines – PetSafe Program
About: United’s PetSafe Program provides a dedicated service for pets, ensuring a safe and climate-controlled environment during air travel.
Services: Special handling for snub-nosed breeds, tracking features for pet owners, climate-controlled cargo holds, and layover facilities.
Website: united.com/petsafe
Animal Airways
About: This company provides pet relocation assistance worldwide, including logistical support and personalized relocation plans.
Services: Consultation services, pet travel logistics, veterinary documentation, and custom import/export compliance.
Website: animalairways.com
Happy Tails Travel
About: Happy Tails Travel is a pet relocation company that specializes in both domestic and international moves with extensive knowledge of import regulations.
Services: Flight arrangements, import documentation, quarantine coordination, and support with pet acclimatization.
Website: happytailstravel.com
Budget-Friendly Tips for DIY Pet Relocation: Moving Your Furry Companion Abroad Without Breaking the Bank
Moving a pet internationally on a budget requires careful planning and DIY preparation. Start by researching your destination’s pet import requirements, as these often include specific vaccinations, microchipping, and health certificates that need to be handled within certain timelines. Work closely with your vet to ensure all paperwork and vaccinations are in order, and train your pet to feel comfortable in an airline-approved crate well ahead of the move. For smaller pets, consider cabin travel if allowed, as it’s often less costly and less stressful than cargo. Booking directly with pet-friendly airlines known for safe pet transport, such as KLM or Lufthansa, can also help reduce costs.
If quarantine is mandatory in your new country, budget accordingly and inquire about government-run facilities or possible home quarantine options to cut expenses. Community resources like local animal charities or expat forums can offer valuable advice, support, and sometimes financial assistance. Skip the full-service pet relocation companies by arranging DIY ground transport to and from the airport, and consider connecting with crowdfunding or support networks if financial assistance is needed. With a bit of extra effort and resourcefulness, it’s possible to relocate your pet affordably while keeping them safe and comfortable.
