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Country Guide to Moving Your Pet Abroad

9th April 2024

 

Starting an international move with your pet can be daunting. Navigating the rules and regulations imposed by different countries requires lots of planning. We’ve created a guide for a smooth relocation process to alleviate the stress. Our blog offers you the knowledge and resources needed for a seamless transition for you and your furry companion, regardless of whether you’re heading to Australia’s sunny beaches or the UAE’s bustling cities.

America

Familiarising yourself with the import regulations for bringing your pets into the United States is important. The requirements may vary depending on the type of pet (dog, cat, horse) and the state you are entering. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). regulate pet imports and can provide you with detailed, specific guidelines.

Microchipping and Identification:

It is essential that your pet is microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip. No matter what state you are entering into, you must ensure all information is up-to-date with your current contact information and address.

Vaccinations and Health Certificates:

Your pet will need to be up-to-date on vaccinations, as required by the United States; though the UK is considered rabies-free by the US, it is still worth getting your pet updated on Rabies vaccinations. Obtain a health certificate from your vet before travel; not all states require these, but they are useful to have in case your airline requests them, or if you want to travel across America. Some states may have additional requirements, so researching specific guidelines before moving is key.

Quarantine Regulations:

The United States generally does not require quarantine for pets entering the country if all the necessary requirements are met. However, certain circumstances or non-compliance with regulations could result in quarantine and other restrictions; being prepared is your best bet for a stress-free move.

Documentation and Paperwork:

Your pet does not need a permit to enter the United States.

 

Singapore

Singapore has strict regulations for importing pets to prevent the introduction of diseases. Ensure you understand and comply with all requirements before planning your pet’s relocation.

Microchipping and Identification:

All dogs and cats imported into Singapore must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip, with completely up-to-date contact details.

Vaccinations:

Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies, DHLPP and Kennel Cough. Cats must be vaccinated against rabies, feline panleukopenia, feline calicivirus, and feline herpesvirus. In addition, treatment against ticks and worms must also be administered at least 14 days before entering Singapore. Once these vaccinations have been given and your pets have received any health documents and certificates, you are ready for the next step.

Import Permits and Licences:

You must get an import permit from the Animal and Veterinary Services of Singapore (AVS). You can apply for the permit online through the AVS’s Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS).

Before you get an import permit, you must apply for an import licence; these import licences are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

Quarantine:

Pets imported into Singapore may be subject to quarantine. Dogs and cats from Category C countries are subject to a 10-day quarantine at the Sembawang Animal Quarantine Station (SAQS). Pets from Category A and B countries (which includes the UK) may be subject to a shorter quarantine or home quarantine under certain conditions, such as being fully vaccinated and presenting the right documents.

Restricted Breeds:

Some dog breeds are restricted or prohibited in Singapore, including Pit Bulls and their crosses and certain Mastiff breeds. For cats, Bengal or Savannah breeds are also not allowed. Ensure your pet’s breed is permitted in Singapore before planning the relocation.

United Arab Emirates

Moving your pet to the United Arab Emirates involves specific regulations and requirements set by the UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). Here’s what you should know:

Pet Import Regulations:

UAE has regulations for importing pets to ensure animal welfare and prevent the spread of diseases. Check the latest regulations from MOCCAE to understand the requirements for bringing your pet to UAE.

There is a long list of restricted breeds in the United Arab Emirates, including, but not limited to: Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American and Bullies.

Microchipping and Identification:

All pets imported into the UAE must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip. Ensure the microchip is registered with your current contact information.

 

Health Certificates, Vaccinations and Permits:

You must obtain the following in order to import your pet from the UK to UAE.

• UAE import permit
  International health certificate
  A rabies blood test and vaccinations
  Cats must be vaccinated against Rabies, Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia
  Dogs must be vaccinated against Rabies, DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus) and Leptospirosis.
  Vaccinations must be a minimum of 21 days old but less than 1 year old at the time of travel

Your horse may need to undergo extra testing for equine diseases such as glanders and equine infectious anaemia (EIA). The UAE authorities require these tests as part of the import process.

Quarantine:

As long as you meet the above requirements, your pet will not have to be quarantined on arrival.

Life with your pet:

It is worth noting that dogs are not as publicly accepted and welcomed in places like Dubai as they are in England. It is hard to find rental housing that accepts pets, and flats are often very small; making it difficult if you have a large dog.

 

South Africa

Requirements for moving your pet into South Africa are fairly strict, and failure to do so can result in refusal into the country or a lengthy quarantine period. Following advice set out by the South African Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD) can help you meet these requirements. When importing pets to South Africa, you have to fly to Cape Town or Johannesburg.

Microchip:

For proper identification, your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip.

Any pet looking to be imported to South Africa must have an export exam by a vet. On passing the exam, the vet will issue a health certificate stating that your pet is in good health and free from contagious diseases within 5 days of departure.

Vaccination:

If you want to import a dog to South Africa, your dog must pass the following blood tests within 30 days of the export date:

• Brucella canis
• Trypanosoma evansi
  Babesia gibsoni
  Dirofilaria immitis
  Leishmania

Ensure your pet (dog, cat, horse) is vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination should be administered at least 30 days before entering South Africa but not more than 12 months before travel. Although the SA does not require pets to be vaccinated against rabies, it is recommended for import to South Africa, as it is not a rabies-free area.

Import Permit:

Obtain an import permit from the South African Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development. You can apply for this permit in advance of travel. Dogs and cats travelling from the UK to South Africa need to have UK DEFRA export paperwork, which is an export licence issued by the UK government department and has to be completed by a UK government-recognised vet.

Ticks and Tapeworm Treatment:

Dogs and cats must be treated for ticks and tapeworms within 48 hours before entry into South Africa. The treatment must be administered by a vet and recorded on the health certificate.

Quarantine:

Many countries, including the UK, are exempt from quarantine if all the above import conditions are met.

 

Australia

Australia has very strict import regulations for pets to prevent the introduction of exotic diseases. The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry oversees the importation of pets. Research the requirements well in advance as they can be complex and time-consuming.

Microchipping and Identification:

All pets entering Australia must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip. Make sure the microchip is registered with your current contact information.

Documentation and Passport:

You will need to apply and pay for an import permit from the Australian government’s Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment at least 42 days before your pet’s flight. This permit outlines regulations and guidelines for bringing your pet into the country.

Any pet looking to be imported to Australia must have an export exam by a vet. On passing the exam, the vet will issue a health certificate stating that your pet is in good health and free from contagious diseases, allowing you to travel abroad.

Rabies Vaccinations:

Ensure your pet (dogs and cats) is vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination should be administered at least 180 days before entering Australia. After the rabies vaccinations, your pet will need to undergo a rabies antibody test (Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre (RNAT)) to demonstrate sufficient levels of antibodies. The test should also be done at least 180 days before entering Australia.

Requirements for Dogs:

General Vaccinations must be up-to-date
Your dog must have external parasite treatment (ticks) at least 21 days before blood sampling for Ehrlichia canis.
Test for Ehrlichia canis, Brucella canis (Brucellosis) and Leishmania infantum (Leishmaniosis) within 45 days of departure.
Dogs must also be vaccinated against Leptospirosis; this consists of 2 vaccines to be administered at least 14 days before travel.
Internal parasite treatments (tapeworms); two treatments at least 14 days apart, the second within 5 days of departure.

All dogs must complete a minimum of 10 days in an Australian quarantine facility.

Requirements for Cats:

General Vaccinations must be up-to-date; In South Africa, your cat must have the FVRCP vaccination, so check your cat has received this vaccination.
Internal parasite treatments (tapeworms). This consists of two treatments at least 14 days apart, the second treatment within 5 days of departure.
External parasite treatments (ticks) – at least 21 days before departure.

Cats must complete a minimum of 5 days in quarantine upon arrival in Australia.

 

In partnership with industry professionals, we aim to make pet relocation less stressful and uncertain, helping you feel confident and calm about your furry companion’s journey. By following the rules and preparing carefully, you can ensure a smooth and safe transition for your pet as you embark on your new adventure abroad. At Eurogroup, with help from our pet removal professional partners, we’re here and ready to help you every step of the way.

Ready to start your International Move? Contact a member of our team today to begin your journey!