Transporting Animals Across The World
Falling in Love
It was never an intention to fall in love with two blue-eyed, rather grubby Siamese brothers born on the unforgiving streets of Cairo. But I did. 14 years ago. Seth and Ned have been with me ever since, and they’ve been on rather an exciting journey. Cairo, Sinai, Maldives, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Phuket and now Koh Samui. I picked up two other lost souls to complete our family along the way, welcome Stan and Ollie.
Always use a Pet Relocation Agent
I’ve never taken animal travel lightly; it has always been the most stressful element of living and working abroad. Choosing the right animal relocation agent has been one of the most important decisions I’ve ever made. They are quite literally lifesavers.
Thankfully, I’ve chosen well, and they have all given me sage advice, and the boys always arrived safe and sound at our next destination. I’ve also learned a lot along the way and listened to other people’s experiences.
As with anything important, choose a specialist. The agents deal with the complexities of animal relocation every day. They are frequently in contact with the airline representatives and government officials. They are up-to-date with all information and can make recommendations to ensure the least amount of stress for your furry family. Rules and regulations can quickly change, so you need to have an unflappable human on your side.
Paperwork and Regulations
One of the most critical responsibilities that your chosen agency undertakes is the paperwork. It might well be in another language, in legal terms or just plain unclear. Guesswork could cause untimely delays and possibly prevent your pet from being allowed into your new country of residence. Allow your agent to guide you through the process. Step by step.
Start Early
Firstly, I can’t recommend highly enough that you must start the process early so that you avoid any hiccups. Your agent will advise you about all of the preparation details necessary. You’ll start by considering the vaccinations that each of your pets should have. The requirements vary from country to country, so get this information early. Some vaccinations and their subsequent tests can take three months.
Choose the Right Transportation Crate
Many airlines will only accept animals that go into a secure, temperature and air controlled hold, which is otherwise known as cargo. They will require comfortable and sturdy cages that they can move around in. It can be a little on the cooler side on the plane, so I’ve always added a non-slip carpet into the base of their crates. This helps keep them a little warmer and also helps with any vibrations. I’ve included blankets to curl up in or hide under and something that has a familiar scent. A friend gave me a handy tip to freeze their water bowls so that they thaw throughout the journey and don’t get spilt along the way.
Animal Sedation
Animal sedation is a big topic. Many people believe that this will help calm a stressed animal. It is actually the opposite. Imagine you are on a plane and there is a little turbulence, and you are unable to move, stand or sit up. Sedated animals are more likely to suffer from intensified stress and risk severe injuries because they cannot stabilise themselves. You can get natural remedies that can help relieve stress such as Bach Flower Remedies for Pets, Adaptil for dogs and Feliway for cats. Ensure that you discuss this with your relocation agency or vet first.
Door to Door Service
Some pet relocation companies even provide a door to door collection service in both countries, which really helps alleviate some of the stress you are experiencing. Not only do you have a removals company to deal with, the unknown elements of a new country and a new job to consider. You can rest assured that your beloved pets are in the best possible hands.
Their same service will apply the other side. The agents will ensure that your animals are taken care of and that the entire process of getting them through health checks is as smooth as possible. As soon as the government veterinary surgeon clears them, they can either move to your new home or the quarantine centre to acclimatise.
Depending on the quarantine laws in your new country, you should have them home in no time. Remember to visit them as often as possible to give them reassurance and lots of love.
And… Relax
Once you are in your new home, animals are surprisingly resilient, and within a couple of days, they’ll be up to their usual mischief! My furry friends are very spoilt, and I have fenced them in so that they are safe and protected from the outside world.
