Majority of the time, pet owners are trying to find the best method to relocate their cat or dog. Although these furry critters are two of the most popular types of pets, there are other pet owners with different species of pets that they may wish to relocate to other countries.
If your scaly, fluffy, or feathery friend is looking to join you in your new home overseas, you may have to jump through a few more hoops than you would while traveling with a cat or dog. Here’s what you need to know about relocating your exotic pet to another country, and what you can do to ensure that you can get your pet into their new home.
Which pets are difficult to travel?
Depending on which country you’re traveling to, there may be restrictions on the animal species that is permitted to come in from an outside country. Exotic pets, which range anywhere from small reptiles to primates, are particularly problematic. Aside from being difficult to acclimate, depending on where you’re traveling to, these pets may raise some red flags for government officials in other countries.
If your pet is a species of bird, reptile, or rodent, you will need to check with the requirements in the country in which you’re about to travel. If there are any discrepancies, be sure to check-in with officials at least two months before the intended date of travel.
Why are some pets more difficult to travel than others?
Many countries, including Australia and New Zealand, have restrictions on animals that are travelled into their country. This is mainly due to concerns regarding disease prevention and control regulations.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Regulation, rabies is the primary concern with dogs and cats traveling into other countries. However, with varieties of reptiles, birds, and rodents, other diseases may be present, and can easily be transferred to other species in that country. This can ultimately cause the disruption of the new country’s ecosystem, as is the case with any foreign, pernicious disease.
Check with your vet specialist to see if your pet needs any additional shots or medications before they travel.
What do you do in the event that your pet can’t travel?
Some governments reserve the right to refuse admission to an animal if they deem that animal to be a health or safety threat. As most animals require a permit in order to be imported into another country, your new homeland’s government can refuse a permit in their country, even if your country of departure approved the animal’s travel.
If this is the case, and if the country still refuses to allow your pet into the country, even with the proper vaccinations, there is a possibility that you may have to look at alternatives. Although some countries, like Canada, make exceptions with the help of societies such as the Canadian Wildlife Society, you may have to get your pet to stay with a close friend or family member for a period of time.
Many countries have different rules regarding pets, but where there’s a will, there’s a way! Speak to your vet and your government officials regarding the relocation of your pet into their new home country, and see if any exceptions can be made.
To receive a quote for your pet’s relocation or travel, contact Worldwide Animal Travel today!
Recent Comments