A major move is a major undertaking, and pet relocation involves plenty of paperwork. It’s easiest if you’re traveling from one US city to another, but it can become quite complicated if you’re traveling internationally, depending on your destination. Everything has to be in perfect order, because the last thing you want to worry about is whether your furry family members will run into problems along the way.
Even if you’re taking a small pet with you on board, you still need paperwork, usually including a paid reservation for them.
No matter where you’re headed, you’ll need:
However, exactly what you’ll need depends on the country. Each one has its own set of requirements about import permits, vaccinations, quarantines and so on that enable your pet to clear customs. Learn about common international pet import requirements. Airlines also have their own documentation requirements for pet transport. You may need:
Coming from the USA, your pet will need:
It's recommended that you start researching pet relocation paperwork requirements as soon as you know where you’re headed and when. Even if you don't know the "when", it's best to start early once you know the "where." That ensures you’ll have time to learn what you need to do and also get it done. Your pets may need new or different vaccinations, and the timing requirements for them can be very specific.
If you’re a ticketed passenger and your pet will travel with you onboard, you may be able to handle everything yourself with just some expert consulting and coaching. On the other hand, if you’re traveling internationally or your pets will travel in the plane’s cargo hold, getting assistance with all the documentation and travel arrangements you need, including flight bookings, permits and quarantine reservations (if needed) can be a monumental relief.
Experts know the rules (which can change). They have the contacts and established working relationships to ensure the process goes smoothly. An experienced reputable pet transport company is a “known pet shipper” to the airlines, whereas you are not.
You can try to navigate the paperwork maze on your own, but it can be very time-consuming as well as intimidating, worrisome, confusing and frustrating, especially if there’s a language barrier. Handing this job over to experienced professionals will save you a tremendous amount of time and bring you the peace of mind you didn’t think was possible, knowing nothing is slipping between the cracks with your pet relocation.
It’s an investment in your pet’s safety and your peace of mind – one less thing to worry about at a time when you have plenty to think about. You’ll have no surprises, just big smiles and wagging tails or purring cats as your family is reunited in your new city and/or country.