How To Move Abroad With Pets
Are you planning your move abroad or hoping to move abroad in the future but don’t have a clue how to bring your furry friend to your new home? Moving abroad with pets can be a stressful aspect of moving, especially when there isn’t much info out there about how to do it. Have no fear- here’s an ultimate guide on how to move abroad with pets.
Why move overseas with your pet?
Moving to a new country is hard as is, but it’s even harder to leave your furry friend behind! It’s common for people moving abroad to leave their dogs and cats at home with loved ones because they think it’s too difficult to bring them to their new country. You don’t have to leave them behind, though!
Moving overseas with your pet isn’t going to be the easiest task, but you do have options. Trust me, the emotional support you’ll have in your new home will be worth all of the hassle. If you want to feel more comfortable with your big move abroad and want to ensure your pets’ happiness by your side, move abroad with your pet using one of these methods.
Traveling Internationally With A Dog
Here are some specific tips if you're planning on moving abroad or traveling internationally with a dog.
How to move abroad with dogs
The first step for planning your move abroad with dogs is to research the requirements and regulations of your new country. All countries have unique regulations when it comes to importing and exporting animals.
Regulations usually include various documents. You should expect to show proof of your dogs’ vaccinations and microchipping. You will also need a pet passport for your dog (just like a human!).
Certain countries may also require additional health documents. For example, when I brought my dog from Germany to the USA, I had to go to the vet and have them fill out a health check document to prove my dog’s healthy standing before flying.
Your Options for Traveling International With a Dog:
Traveling internationally with pets isn’t so difficult, but your options are limited. There are essentially only two ways you can move abroad with a dog and that’s by:
1. Flying
2. By boat/pet-friendly cruise
Keep in mind that only certain airlines allow dogs in cabins and unfortunately, larger dogs are usually only allowed in the cargo section of planes. This can be very scary for your furry friend, so this is another mental note you will have to consider.
Transporting pets overseas by boat is another option that is not as common as flying. This is a more costly option, as you will likely have to pay for a week-long cruise for both yourself and your pups.
How much does it cost to move a dog overseas?
The cost of moving abroad with your dog can depend on your situation, destination, and other factors. For starters, your destination will play the biggest role in your expenses. Longer distances will obviously incur higher fees.
If you decide to fly with your dog abroad, you could estimate anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to up to a couple thousand, depending on the flight prices, availability, your dog’s size, your destination, and more.
How to Fly with Dogs
Flying with dogs is the easiest option for traveling internationally with dogs. Unfortunately, though, most dogs aren’t allowed to fly in cabins because of their size and, sometimes, their breed.
For most airlines that offer animal flying services, dogs are allowed in the cabin as long as they:
- Weigh 5 kilograms or less
- Can comfortably turn around in their carrier
- Are well-behaved/not noisy
- Stay within their carrier throughout the entire duration of the flight
Moving overseas with a large dog
Flying with dogs gets more complicated for medium-sized dogs over 5 kilograms, as they usually aren’t allowed to sit happily next to you in the cabin. More times than not, if you have a bigger dog you will have to let him/her travel in the cargo section of the plane.
The cargo costs for flying dogs internationally vary, but are estimated anywhere from $100-$1000. Note that not all dogs are allowed in cargo, so be sure to check the accepted dog breeds
Another Option for traveling overseas with a dog: Pet Relocation Services
If you’re looking for another way to bring your furry friend with you abroad, hire a pet relocation service. There are many pet transport companies out there to choose from, but be sure to do your research and ensure you feel confident in their services before booking.
Pet relocation services are also very costly, as you’re paying for their organization and documentation. Nonetheless, they are a great option for relocating your pet abroad, as their services are pretty stress-free. They handle all relevant paperwork, and customs procedures, and ensure the safety of your dog throughout the journey.
Thinking of moving abroad soon? Check out this blog post where I talk about the easiest ways to move abroad.
What's the easiest country to move to with a Dog?
Determining the easiest country to move to with a dog can be very subjective and depends on multiple factors. Surprisingly, the United States is known as one of the most welcoming nations for pets. Other countries in Europe, for example, have strict regulations and require more paperwork.
Most European countries have standardized pet travel regulations, including the requirement of pet passports, microchipping, rabies vaccinations, and, in some cases, tapeworm treatment. Pet quarantine is also a possibility depending on your departure country.
Some of the “easiest” countries to travel internationally with pets have little to no quarantine requirements. Countries within the EU, for example, have pet travel regulations on their website that you should take a look at. Other countries that are known for simple processes and less stringent quarantine requirements include the USA, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia.
Traveling Internationally With Pets Conclusion
Traveling internationally with pets isn’t difficult but it does require a bit of research on your side. Overall, the processes and regulations for transporting pets internationally are straightforward. The best advice I’d give you for moving abroad with your pet is to stay organized and prepare in advance. The last thing you want to do is forget an important document and delay your trip.
The ease of moving abroad with a dog or cat can vary based on the specific country's regulations and your departure location. Be sure to consult with your new country’s embassy or consulate and your vet to ensure compliance with current regulations and to facilitate a smooth relocation process for your furry friend.
Checklist for moving abroad with pets
To wrap up this guide on how to move abroad with pets, here is a step-by-step process you should use to ensure an easy and smooth move:
1. Research Your Destination Country Regulations:
Understand the specific requirements of the destination country regarding pet imports. For example, if you’re moving to an EU country, check the regulations related to vaccinations, microchipping, quarantine, and any other documentation.
2. Schedule a Vet Appointment
Schedule a visit to your veterinarian well in advance. Although your dog may look healthy, some airlines and destination countries will require a note from the vet confirming their health. You will also have to ensure that your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and you have these documents. Some countries may have specific tests or treatments required, so research these and ask your vet for these tests, if needed.
Note that certain airlines require specific tests and health checks before flying/arrival. This appointment should be the same week as your departure week, for example, if you fly Wednesday, try to schedule the appointment for Monday.
3. Get Your Pet Microchipped
Nearly all countries require your pets to be microchipped. Be sure your pet is microchipped with an ISO-standard microchip and that you have the relevant documents to show at customs/in your destination country.
4. Purchase an airline-approved pet travel crate
Airlines have specific guidelines for your pet’s carrier, so you shouldn’t just purchase any random bag! Be sure to research the airlines’ size requirements that also fit your pet’s size perfectly. The airline-approved travel crate should provide enough space for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Here is the exact travel crate I used when traveling from Germany to the USA with my pomeranian.
5. Crate-train your pet
If you have a small dog and plan on bringing him/her in the cabin with you, it’s important that you crate train long before the flight. Keep in mind that your dog has to stay in its carrier for the entire duration of the flight. If they’re crying or barking, you, unfortunately, won’t be able to hold them in your lap.
To ensure a stress-free flight with your dog, make sure he/she is used to the crate and won’t be too nervous. Also, make sure to layer the crate with pee pads in case they can’t hold it during the flight.
6. Book your Flights
Flying with pets is not easy (for you or your pets) and I’d recommend booking direct flights to minimize travel time and reduce stress on your pet. Layovers and transfers might save money but will be difficult for your pet and may negatively impact their anxiety.
Note that you might not be able to book your pet’s flight directly online. You usually have to call the airlines to do so.
7. Pack a Pet Travel Kit
The more prepared you are for international travel with pets, the better! Don’t forget to pack all of the essentials your pet might need during your journey.
A few things you could bring in your pet travel bag are- food, water, bowls, medication, toys, a familiar blanket, and treats.
Here are some essentials you should bring in your bag while traveling abroad with your pet-
Q&A
Is it easy to move abroad with cats?
Moving abroad with cats is generally easier than with dogs, but this also depends on your situation and furry friend. Most cats can fly in cabins, as they are the perfect size for the required carrier size.
Similar to moving abroad with dogs, when moving with your cat, you will need to have a pet passport, health certificate, and proof of vaccination. Research your destination and make note of any other requirements you may need for a smooth travel process.
How do I transport my pet internationally?
As mentioned above, transporting your pet internationally isn't as difficult as it may seem. All you really need to do is find airlines that transport dogs/cats, or you could take a pet-friendly cruise. The easiest way is to fly and you can easily buy your pet a flight ticket by calling the airline directly.
I'd recommend calling the airline first before you purchase your own flight ticket because you need to make sure that there is space available for your pet on the flights (airlines only allow a limited number of pets per flight).
About Pet Passports
A pet passport is pretty much the same as a human passport. Just like we need our passports and IDs to travel, the same goes for your pet.
Unlike human passports, though, pet passports also hold information about their health status, and vaccination history such as their microchip certificate, pet owner’s info, vaccination records, health certificates, and other health-related info.
Moving Abroad with Pets- Conclusion
Can you move internationally with a pet? Yes, it is possible to move internationally with a pet, but it involves careful planning and adherence to the specific regulations of the destination country. Always start the Pet Migration planning process well in advance, as international pet transportation can involve a series of steps that require time and coordination. Each country has its own regulations, so thorough research and adherence to guidelines are crucial for a smooth and successful relocation for your pet.
