How to Move with Pets Internationally

Moving internationally is a big challenge and also a big change, not only for you, but also for your pets. Believe it or not, pets feel when their owners are nervous and stressed and they sense that some change is coming. Even if you know they will adjust to your new home, understand that they take moving emotionally because it’s a new experience for them. Pets are moving to an unknown place for them and changing their favorite places and routine. If they are used to a certain climate and environment, to move with pets internationally will be even harder. Besides, each type of animal requires a different mode of transport. You can’t move a cat, fish and iguana the same way. Pet movers can help you relocate easily and your pets will be safe. And we are going to help you with some important tips about relocating with pets internationally! 

two small dogs on a leash
Don’t forget to visit the vet and gather all necessary documentation before you move with pets internationally.

The first rule when you move with pets internationally: visit the vet

Before you move with pets internationally, don’t forget to visit the vet. Many states require a health certificate with a list of all inoculations to verify your pet is free from infections and diseases. Your vet will provide you with all the necessary documents you should carry during flight. Airline agencies require you to provide them with your pet’s documentation, so keep it near you during the trip. Your vet will give your pet prescription medications, you can hear useful advice and also, your vet can recommend another good vet or hospital in another country. Learn how to avoid moving injuries too. Beside disease, your pets respond stressfully to a complete change in habits and environments, you must take them to the vet. Some pets react badly on driving, temperature, more unknown people around themselves and the rest.

How to Move with Pets Internationally with a small cute dog
Show your pet that you care about him and help him to adjust to your new environment.

Give them time to adjust to change

Pets are not material things to relocate them as you wish and wherever you wish. If you want to move with pets internationally, you will have to pay attention to their needs and mood. Pets are emotional and need time to adjust to change and new environment. They feel when something is happening and if their owner is under stress they will be too. Pets need to change their routine, habits, favorite places and things they used to do. Give them time to adjust to your new home.  Also, learn a few tips to cope with moving stress. Make sure that the climate and environment are similar to the one they used to enjoy. But before adjusting to home, if they didn’t try driving in a kennel, you should try to slowly get used them to a kennel before moving. And during relocation, give them their favorite food, toy, and blanket.

man hugging a dog
Your pets are your dear best friends take care like such!

Prepare documentation

When you move with pets internationally, it’s really important to have all necessary documentation. Before moving, make ID tags with pets name, your name, your new address and phone number in case they get lost. You should make a copy and place it on your luggage-type bag. Besides, mind the other rules. Rules vary greatly in different countries regarding the import of animals, and these regulations often depend on your country of origin. In some countries, you won’t be able to bring all the animals you want. If you can, make your pet microchips so in case your pet gets lost, you can easily find him. You need to have multiple copies of the pet’s health documentation. If you are moving internationally and you need a place to store your things until you find the appropriate apartment, check Storage Hong Kong and pick what suits you the most! 

two cute kittens
Airlines have different regulations for transporting animals internationally, so contact your airline company to find out important information.

Traveling by airplane

Long-distance and international moving with pets requires relocating with the airplane. A flight is the best solution for moving with pets internationally. But, rules and regulations for flying pets vary by airline. The most important thing is to visit your vet and gather all health documentation. Many countries require health care documentation to prove that your pet is free from infectious disease. On most commercial flights, you can pay a fee and small dogs and cats may ride in a carrier under your seat. Larger dogs must fly in the cargo area of a plane. On most commercial flights, you can take small dogs and cats in a carrier under your seat, if you pay fees, which are usually starting from $100 to $150 one way. The fees are higher and pets that travel in cargo must ride in kennels that adhere to regulations set by the Agriculture Department and the International Air Transport Association.

 Move with pets internationally: Explore the risks

Before you move with pets internationally, explore the possible risks and unwanted situations. It’s better to be prepared during the flight. But before that, think about pet insurance. Pick the best and the safest shipping kennel for your pet. Make a reservation for flight in advance. Because pet approval is granted on a first-come – first-served basis. Make sure you don’t feed pets less than six hours before the flight and give him water about two hours before take-off. When it comes to transport, there are always risks. Because of that, according to The New York Times, American Airlines, will not transport pets if any stop in your journey is colder than 45 degrees or warmer than 85 degrees. There are airlines who refuse to relocate pets that have been drugged, so don’t medicate a pet before a flight. According to Sally B. Smith from a pet transportation service Airborne Animals, the no. 1 cause of death in shipping pets are tranquilizers since the drugs depress the heart and respiratory system.

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I was hoping to avoid the struggles of having to relocate altogether, but with ReloSmart Movers by my side, I’m glad I didn’t. The team did an incredible job – they arrived on time and handled everything perfectly!

David R.

Sydney