Relocating to another country from the UK is exciting but can be stressful, especially when you want to bring along your furry friends. It’s important to remember that an international relocation is equally, if not more disorienting for your pet than it is for you, so take time to make sure your pet is prepared for their big international move.
In this article, we’ll discuss the main things you need to do to ensure a safe and stress-free journey for your pet.
First things first, it's important to research the requirements for moving with pets to your destination country. Many countries have specific rules and regulations when it comes to bringing animals across borders, including vaccinations and health certificates. The embassy, consulate or official government website of your destination country should give you all the information you need. Take the time to read through the requirements to prevent any issues when you arrive. It’s important to note that some countries may also require your pet to spend a stay in quarantine before they can be moved to their new home.
Next, book an appointment with your veterinarian to make sure that your pet is up to date on all required vaccines and has a clean bill of health. Most countries require a health certificate issued by a licensed vet, so make sure to obtain this document once your pet has been checked over. Some EU countries also require a rabies blood test, so double-check if this is needed in your destination country.
In most cases, it's mandatory to have your pet microchipped to ensure that it can be identified if it becomes lost during the move. If the animal is already chipped, the microchip should be registered in an international database before you leave, so it can be used to locate you at your destination address or local registered vet wherever you are in the world. Microchipping is inexpensive and quick, so it's best to get this done well in advance if you haven’t already.
Before you choose an airline for your pet's transportation, do research on pet-friendly airlines, and read up about airline-specific pet policies and restrictions. Each airline will have its own set of regulations, so make sure the airline you choose is comfortable and experienced in transporting pets. Also, book your pet's transportation as far in advance as possible to ensure that they have a seat on the flight closest to or exactly your own.
Finally, help your pet get accustomed to travel crates, especially if they are not used to travelling – this will reduce their stress during the move, as you won’t be able to explain to them in advance what is going on. Gradually familiarising your pet with their crate in the weeks leading up to your trip can help reduce anxiety and stress during the trip. Once you are ready to go, make sure your pet has enough food and water for the journey, as well as a toy or blanket your furry friend is familiar with.
Moving overseas with a pet can be a lot of work, but with the right preparation, it can be an enjoyable experience for both you and your pet. Be proactive, plan ahead, and you and your loyal furry friend will both have a wonderful move to your new home abroad! Get in touch today to find out about our international relocation services and call us directly if you have any questions.
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