Moving house involves a lot of organization and can be a difficult time, especially when you're moving from one country to another. Careful preparation is essential when you're moving with your companions, who can be very affected by these sudden changes. We're here to guide you and give you the best advice on how to make the most of this period, and how best to accompany your pets through this transition.
The vet's appointment
This is essential, as your animals could be refused entry to a territory if health requirements are not met.
The vet will then check that your pet is in good health and that all vaccinations are up to date. Your pet must be identified: its microchip acts as an identity document, but also as a passport, and the information it contains must be up to date..
💡 We also recommend updating the flea and worming medication.
He will also issue you with an original health certificate and the certificate of "non-commercial movement of a number of dogs, cats or ferrets"If your pet falls into one of these categories.
You can take advantage of this time with your doctor to get specific advice on international travel.
Attention ⚠️ These procedures take time and require at least 6 months before you move if you need to obtain documents (passport / chip) and at least 3 months for rabies titration and importing your animal.
The serum titration result is valid for the entire life of the animal, provided that the rabies vaccination is maintained (vaccination booster shots given on time).
💡 Some countries are exempt from rabies titration, but we recommend you carry it out anyway.
Find out about regulations in your destination country
Additional vaccinations, specific medications or even blood tests may be required. Additional documentation may also be required. Each country has its own requirements in terms of animal import regulations.
Transport: how do I transport my pet?
Pay particular attention to the type of transport that's best for your pet. Certain types of transport can be difficult for animals, so make sure your pet gets the most out of the journey.
If you're traveling by plane, be sure to book your flight in advance and purchase your ticket. Depending on the type of airline, your pet may travel with you or in the hold, as each company has its own policies and requirements for transporting animals..
In all cases, however, care must be taken to ensure that the transport box corresponds to to IATA standards.
For information, when leaving France, depending on your airline :
- You may not travel with more than 5 animals at a time
- You must be able to justify that it is not a business trip.
- The owner/authorized person must submit written proof that the animals are registered.
- Travelling pets must be over 3 months old
Attention ⚠️ the breed of your animals, some pedigree cats not registered with the LOOF (Livre Officiel des Origines Félines, a studbook for all pedigree cats born in France) that do not have a birth certificate or pedigree may be considered hybrids, and require permits to cross certain borders. The same applies to certain categorized dogs, which can only cross borders if they comply with certain regulations and present documents proving registration in a herd book.
Guide dogs or service animals There are no specific exemptions for importing these animals, which must comply with import regulations.
Prepare the shipping crate
To help your pet make the most of its journey, we recommend that you leave the transport crate fully accessible at home before your move.
💡 Don't hesitate to let him eat and drink from it, put toys and cuddly toys in it, as well as a cosy blanket.
This will not only familiarize him with the crate, but also impregnate his belongings with your scent and his own, thus preparing your little companion and reassuring him during the journey.
Here are a few sites offering IATA-standard transport crates:
Prepare food and medicine
Before you leave, make sure you take enough food and water with you for the whole journey and arrival. You can also bring treats, which will always please him. Also take a first-aid kit and medicines with you, so you don't have to buy any when you move in, and you can save yourself a lot of trouble.
Plan a quarantine period
Some countries require quarantine on arrival, so be sure to find out about this as well as how to collect your pet.
Please note: If the pet's papers are not in order, the animal may be :
- Placed in quarantine until it meets sanitary requirements
- Returned to his country of origin.
- Euthanized, if the first two options are not considered. All additional costs are the responsibility of the pet owner.
You've reached your destination!
Give your pet all the time it needs to adjust to its new life.
At home, dedicate a cozy corner with its blanket to herA small place where he can use as a reference point to be calm and rest.
Maintain his daily routine and pay extra attention to him, playing with him and reassuring him as much as possible.
Be aware that he too may suffer from jet lag, so give him time to adjust and respect his rest periods. Check out nearby vets/clinics, as the city may also have emergency animal care numbers or services, which could come in handy.
🌞 In the event of major temperature changes :
- You arrive in a hot country Cooling mats: cooling mats are available in all sizes, shapes and colors. We advise you to check the composition to avoid gel-based mats (which can be toxic). Silicone shoes are also available for dogs with sensitive paw pads. For your information, when it's 30 degrees outside, the temperature of the asphalt can rise to over 57 degrees.
- You arrive in a cold country For your dog: multiply warm spots with cozy plaids, and move them closer to radiators or heat sources. For your dog, you can invest in a coat, perfect for protecting him from the cold or rain. They come in all sizes and colors.
🐕 Your pet discovers his new neighborhood...
Find out about the relationship between the inhabitants of your new country and animals. Sometimes it's "cat country", and if you have an unsociable cat, it's likely to be attacked and become homesick. Similarly, if you have a dog that attacks cats, it's best to avoid accidents.
It's also possible that, in some countries, animals are less highly regarded, or even feared by the locals (especially dogs). You need to remain vigilant and introduce your pet to your new neighbors to avoid accidents.
What should I pack for my pet?
- Health booklet
- Certificates / supporting documents
- Toys
- Cuddly toys
- Bowls
- Leash / harness
- Cozy blanket
- Food
- Water bottle
- Sweets
- Medicines
- First aid kit
- Feliway / Adaptil (anti-stress wipes to be applied in the transport case)
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