Taking Pets To Belgium

Belgium is a popular destination for many of our clients. It is a financial center in Europe as well as being home to many world organizations including the European Union and NATO.



Getting there is relatively easy. Each pet will need:

1) Microchip;
2) Rabies shot between 30 days and a year old;
3) EU Health Certificate, Endorsed by the USDA – We have a fully editable copy which we will provide for you. We will also provide you with the address for the appropriate USDA office.
4) International Health Certificate - Most Vets carry the APHIS Form 7001. If not, we can instruct them on where to get it.

Where to Stay - Once you are there, there Crowne Plaza in both Brussels and Antwerp will allow pets. There may be some restrictions, so make sure to ask and let them know you will be bringing a pet.

Of course, once there it would be a shame not to take Rover for a romp through the famed Cinquantenaire Park.

Shipping Pets to Shanghai - Things to be Aware of When Shipping Pets

With over 1 billion people, China is certainly a force in the world economy. We send many clients to Shanghai and have previously highlighted the requirements for getting there.

Today we wanted to share some excerpts from a first hand account of the experiences of people living in Shanghai with pets. The article comes The Shanghai Daily.

EXPATS intent on moving to Shanghai for a long stint often want to bring their pets with them. But with all the rules, regulations and paperwork required, it's surely a big decision, writes Tan Xian.

Having decided to settle in Shanghai, Renee Allen is keen to bring her five-year-old golden retriever, Benny, over from the United States.

But she continues to hesitate. Bringing a pet to the city from overseas is a complicated business.

For starters, Allen was told that if a pet failed a check at the airport customs gate, it could be euthanized.

She also learned from a company experienced in importing pets that a seven-day isolation period in a government-prescribed location, such as a pet hospital, is a must.

And when she studied local regulations on owning a dog in China on the Internet, she discovered that licensed dogs would still be caught if they don't follow certain rules. "The laws for dogs are too strict and complicated in Shanghai. I'm confused," Allen says.

Shanghai local Gee Gu, who has helped many pets enter and leave China, says people have to be careful when deciding whether to import pets.

"But the pets are taken good care of in the week-long isolation. The owner can even choose the brand of pet food," he says.

Dogs and cats are quite easy to bring in, says Gu. The owner just needs to provide two certificates from a vet and ensure the animal has had a rabies injection.

But other animals are forbidden. Gu once witnessed a girl arrive at the airport with a pet rabbit. As the law defines cats and dogs as the only pets allowed entry with a passenger, the rabbit had to be put down.

"Pets such as lizards or rabbits are defined as ordinary animals which are not easily brought into the country by private owners," Gu adds. "If the pet is a dog and likely to stay for a long period in the city, it needs a license."

Shanghai native Jim Ying owns a crossbred wolfhound. He made great efforts to settle the dog in his home after acquiring it from a company where it was previously used as a guard dog.

"It's really difficult because Shanghai does have restrictions on certain dog breeds and areas where they can live," says Ying who decided to raise the animal because the company broke up and the dog faced being euthanized.

Purebred dogs like wolfhounds, German shepherds and Dobermans - often used as guards dogs - are not allowed to live with families.

Ying says his dog was lucky as his first license did not state his breed as a wolfhound as he is a crossbreed and his news home was outside the inner-ring area (a permissible area).

However, the dog still worries Ying. "He's too big and loves barking and many neighbors are really scared of him. They complained to the realty management office and I had to keep explaining to people door-to-door. Otherwise the dog would have been 'jailed'."

Allen says Shanghai has too large a population in the downtown area and big dogs can be really fierce. "Also rabies is a big killer in China, and you must abide by the laws of the land that you choose to live in.

"You have to clearly investigate the laws and rules and you also should think about neighbors. You need to think a lot before bringing a dog to Shanghai."

Internationl Pet Shipping - When to Get Started

International Pet Travel is not something best left to the last minute. Many countries require advanced planning and it is rarely too early to get started. Advanced planning is crucial to either avoid quarantine, or even enter at all in some instances. Below is a quick guide on when you should start making arrangements for various countries:

JAPAN - 7 Months - The requirements to get into the Land of the Rising Sun are quite arduous and a good 7 months of planning is required.

UK - At the very least 6 months in advanced is required. Quarantine time in the UK can be avoided all together if the proper procedures are followed.

AUSTRALIA - 6 months are required. The pet must do 30 days in quarantine but all procedures must be followed or more time could be required.

SINGAPORE - Technically only about 45 days preparation are required, however there has been a recent run on actual space and we would advice making contact at least 90 days in advance.

Dog Shipping to Argentina

Argentina, officially the Argentine Republic, is a country in South America, constituted as a federation of 23 provinces and an autonomous city. It is the second largest country in South America by land area, and eighth in the world. It is also a wonderful place for pets!


The basic requirements for getting there are as follows:

1) Microchip: While a microchip is not required, it is recommended.

2) Rabies Vaccination: Each pet must have a valid rabies shot between 30 days and a year old as of the date of Travel.

3) Health Certificate (APHIS Form 7001)– This is the standard Health Certificate carried by most vets. NOTE: For Argentina, it must also be translated into Spanish and have very specific language. Please be sure to check with your Personal Move Counselor to confirm the appropriate wording. This Health Certificate must be issued within 10 days of arrival.

4) USDA Endorsement: The above document must be endorsed by the USDA. Your Personal Move Counselor will give you the appropriate address and fees.

As with most foreign destinations, we recommend you allow us to arrange custom's clearance for you so your 4 legged friends can zip off the plane and head to the local cantina with you!

How to Send a Pet to Portugal - Dog Shipping

Portugal is a beautiful country nestled on the Atlantic and home to over 2000 years of history. It is a favorite relocation spot for many of our clients and we wanted to list a primer on how to get your companion animals there.

In order to enter, each pet will need:

1) Microchip.

2) All animals need to have Full Vaccinations.

Dogs: DHLPP and Rabies between 30 days and a year old. Cats: FVRCP, and Rabies between 30 days and a year old.

3) EU Health Certificate, Endorsed by the USDA – We have a fully editable copy which we will provide for you. We will also provide you with the address for the appropriate USDA office.

4) International Health Certificate - Most Vets carry the APHIS Form 7001. If not, we can instruct them on where to get it.

There are some additional requirements for custom's clearance, including a copy of your passport, however we will give you the particulars.

As Lisbon is a very pet friendly place, there is much you can do with your pet once you get there.

Porto Marina is located near the Vilamoura Marina, with its extensive selection of cafes, bars, restaurants and night life. Fully self-contained these cosy 1 bedroom apartments enjoy lovely views over the gardens and swimming pool. Pets are most welcome and they ask that you bring your pet a blanket so that he can enjoy the furniture.

Casa Wladival is in Dornes, a along the river Zezêre where you travel back to a time of myths, legends and mystery. You and your pets are welcome and you may walk together in the nearby woods or along the river as well as in town. Dogs do need to be on a leash while on the premises.

South Africa

We send quite a few pets to South Africa as it is a gorgeous country and many expats return.

Johannesburg is the source of a large-scale gold and diamond trade, due to its location on the mineral-rich Witwatersrand range of hills. Johannesburg is served by O.R. Tambo International Airport, the largest and busiest airport in Africa and a gateway for international air travel to and from the rest of southern Africa.

Cape Town is famous for its harbour as well as its natural setting in the Cape floral kingdom, including such well-known landmarks as Table Mountain and Cape Point. Although I have never been, it is supposed to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a climate that puts San Diego to shame.

The requirements for dogs are quite detailed and they are not done properly, the South African authorities will send the pet back at the owner's expense. We get calls!

Luckily Animal Land Pet Movers have Igna Traube as a International Personal Move Counselor. She is from South Africa and with Afrikaans as her native language, we are able to navigate the waters for our clients. The basic requirements are as follows:

1. Microchip: Each pet will need to be microchipped prior to departure.

2. Rabies Vaccination: Each pet will need a rabies vaccination between 30 days and a year old.

3. Blood Tests (For Dogs Only): Dogs must have the following blood tests within 30 days of arrival :

• Brucella Canis
• Trypanosoma evansi
• Babesia Gibsoni
• Dirofilaria immitis
• Leishmania

Your Personal Move Counselor will give you and your vet a check list of exactly how to accomplish the above as specific methods of testing are required in order for the results to be valid .

4. Import Permit: We will arrange this for you.

5. South African Health Certificate: South Africa has its own Health Certificate which needs to be issued and endorsed by the USDA within 10 days of arrival. We will fill out the form and email it to your vet to sign. We will also instruct you on where to send the document for endorsement.

6. International Health Certificate (Aphis Form 7001): Most vets carry this standard form.

7. Six Months of Heartworm Medication: This must accompany each pet.

You and your pets are now ready for Safari!

Dog Shipping - Sending Pets to Hong Kong

HONG KONG
Renowned for its expansive skyline and natural setting, Hong Kong is one of the world's leading financial capitals and a major business and cultural hub. As you might imagine, it is a popular destination for many of our clients and we hand both imports and exports.

While the rules are not onerous, the authorities are quite strict and if anything is missing from the paperwork, they will detain your pet. This, as well as the ability to speed through custom's clearance is a great reason to use our services! An overview of the process is as follows:

1) Microchip: Each pet will need to be microchipped.

2) Rabies Vaccination: All pets must must be vaccinated between 30 days and a year as of the date of arrival.

3) International Health Certificate (APHIS Form 7001)– This is the standard Health Certificate. We will assist your vet in filling out this form. It must be issued within 10 days of arrival.

4) Hong Kong Health Certificate (Form VC9R) – This is a form unique to Hong Kong. We prepare this form for you and your vet in PDF format so everything is correct. Your vet will just need to review and sign. This form will need to be sent to the USDA for endorsement.

5) Import Permit – An import permit is required in order for your pet to enter the country. Your Personal Move Counselor will get this for you.

As long as everything si done corretly, there is no quarantine when entering Hong Kong from the United States and your fur babies should be able to hop off the plane and go with you for sushi!

Pets to Australia - International Pet Shipping

Australia is certainly one of the more involved countries to send pets to and we highly recommend using our services as the consequences are six months in quarantine for any missed item.

The key is to get started at least 5 months before you plan to depart. There is a mandatory 30 quarantine at a facility in Australia. However, you must do the correct blood tests and paperwork to be eligible for only 30 days.

To correctly begin the procedure, you need to:

1. Insert a microchip - AVID and Home Again are the most popular
2. Give your pet a rabies shot - It doesn't matter if he had one a month ago if he didn't previously have a microchip inserted
3. Blood draw for the Rabies Titre - We can provide your vet with details on where to send the sample

The clock starts ticking when the blood is drawn so the above will at least get you started on the right path.

Also, please do NOT vaccinate your dog against Leptospirosis (the "L" in a standard DHLPP vaccine). Instead please give the DHPP vaccine. Giving the Lepto vaccine can result in a false positive on the Lepto test which is required before your dog can enter.

Again, Australia is one of the countries where it is truly wise to engage our services.

Things to know for International Pet Shipping

Relocating pets internationally can be a complicated process. There is a great deal to consider, including import and export documentation, veterinary procedures, timing, airline policies, travel crate requirements, the possibility of quarantine and custom's policies in your destination country.

There are many sources to find information regarding the specific country you are traveling to. Of course we have a complete database of requirements and are glad to help. However, you can also check with the consulate and the agriculture department in your destination country.

Below are the general questions you should seek answers to before shipping your pet:

* Are there any special restrictions for pets being imported into your country?

* What documents are required to import my pet?

* Are any special vaccinations or tests required for my pet?

* Are there specific country restrictions?

* Are there any special quarantine requirements for a pet being imported?

* Is there a way to avoid or minimize the qurantine?

* Are there any country/local holidays during or around the time of my planned trip?

* What airline will I use?

* How will my pet clear customs?

There are other nuances for each country, however the above list of questions is a good start. One word of caution, there is also a great deal of misinformation on the internet so it is always a good idea to double check with an independent source. We are always here to help, so please feel free to contact us with any questions you might have.

Fun Event in London this Weekend

A Show for You and Your Dog in Kent this Weekend

13-14 of September
The Hop Farm at the Kentish Oast Village
Paddock Wood, Tonbridge, Kent, TN12 6PY
TEL: 01622 872068

The New "Aquazone"

• 4 specially designed pools for doggy sports, including Dash 'N' Splash
• With over 400 acres of unspoilt Kent countryside there is camping, walking and exercising space in abundance. The show boasts a number of excellent arena displays and attractions for you and your dog as well as have a go activities including the Dogstable Course, My Dogs Got Talent & Agility.
• Top Class Canine Competitions featuring the best dogs in the country.
• The Paws in the Park event is for dogs, so don't leave yours at home!
• Celebrities - Carolyn Menteith, Richard Curtis, Marc Abraham

Paws in the Park the UK's largest outside annual dog show for working, trained and pet dogs.

Book tickets in advance and save money | click here to book

Visit www.pawsinthepark.net for detailed information!

Taking Pets to Sweden - International Pet Shipping

From Amy Christy - International Personal Move Counselor

Sweden is often described as one of the world’s most modern and advanced countries. But foreign visitors also experience a naturalness that is equally typical of the country - an openness, an informality and especially a profound relationship to nature.

Sweden is a very pet friendly country but there are also specific requirements that must be followed in the proper order if you plan to take your pet:

1) Microchip - Each pet needs a microchip. The rules state an ISO compliant microchip is required, however Sweden can also scan the popular Avid 9 digit encrypted microchip.

2) Rabies Vaccination & Certificate - All pets must have an original Rabies Certificate and this certificate must state the microchip number, the date of inoculation and the validity of the particular vaccination you obtain – some are good for two years, others are only good for one. This vaccine must be an inactivated vaccine.

3) Rabies Titre / FAVN-OIE Test: This test needs to be done 120 days after the most recent rabies shot. The sample must be sent by your veterinarian to an approved laboratory for testing. The rabies titre test will remain valid forever as long as you keep your pet’s rabies vaccinations up to date in accordance with the manufactuter’s instructions.

4) Echinococcus Treatment – Dogs and Cats must have a tapeworm treatment with an approved product no more than 10 days before arriving.

5) EU Veterinary Certificate – This is the standard Health Certificate to be filled out by your USDA accredited Veterinarian. If your pet is going to be traveling as 'unaccompanied cargo' you will need the commercial variant, which needs to be issued and USDA endorsed within 24 hours of departure. The timing of this process can be quite tricky, as you will need to both take your pet to the vet and obtain the USDA’s endorsement - all within 24 hours of check-in time at the airport! If you are not located within driving distance of a USDA office, we can make arrangements to transport your pets to a point of departure located close to a USDA office and we will perform these services on your behalf.

6) International Health Certificate – Within 10 days of your pet’s arrival into Sweden, your vet will need to issue an International Health Certificate as required by all airlines. This certificate states that your pet is in good health and is fit to travel.

Whatever your final destination in Sweden, you will find this country to be rich in many customs closely associated with the changing seasons that visitors often find both exotic and attractive. We would be delighted to assist you in ensuring that your pet has a safe and successful journey to this scenic Scandinavian country!

Quarantine in the UK - Dog Shipping

From Amy Christy - International Personal Move Counselor

While the UK now allows pets to effectively serve the mandatory 6 month quarantine in the U.S. if all of the Pet Travel Scheme requirements are met, some pet owners who must move quickly to the UK or for various other reasons may prefer to send their pets to a UK approved quarantine facility.

All approved quarantine premises in the UK are privately owned, and have different fee structures. Payment of all costs associated with the quarantine of your pet is the responsibility of the owner. You should make arrangements directly with a UK approved quarantine facility prior to sending your pet. When selecting a facility, you will want to ensure that it is within reasonable travelling distance of your home so that you can visit your pet easily.

The quarantine facility you select will apply directly to DEFRA for an import license, referred to as a “Boarding Document,” which will be required to travel with your pet. Your pet must travel with the following documents:

1. Boarding Document issued by DEFRA

2. UK Red Rabies Label

3. International Health Certificate issued within 10 days of arrival.

All pets transported into quarantine must travel as manifest cargo and must land at specific airports. We can assist you in determining the best airlines and itinerary for your pet.

In some cases, your pet may not be required to serve an entire 6 months at the quarantine facility and may qualify for early release. This is true, for instance, if your pet has already started the veterinary work for the Pet Travel Scheme, but 6 months have not elapsed after the rabies titre test before you must transport your pet. In this case, you should provide the quarantine facility with all supporting veterinary documentation (proof of microchip implant date, rabies vaccination certificate, and results of the rabies titre blood test), and the facility’s veterinarian will complete an application for early release on your behalf. We can also review all veterinary documents to ensure that all is in order for your pet’s early release.

We have worked closely with many of the quarantine facilities in the UK, will make all necessary travel arrangements, provide veterinary instructions and all required kennel labeling, including preparing the UK Red Rabies Label on your behalf. We have found them to be staffed by professional, caring individuals that strive to offer a high level of comfort and care for your pet during their stay at their facilities!

Taking Pets to Italy - Dog Shipping

Few countries hold the romantic allure of Italy. Of course Rome is the most popular destination, but we have successfully landed pets in Venice as well.

The steps conform to the requirements of most EU countries.

1) Microchip: Each pet needs a microchip. The rules state a ISO microchip is required, however we have not had issues with standard AVID and Home Again chips.

2) Rabies Vaccination: Each pet will need to be vaccinated against rabies. The rabies shot must be older than 30 days and less than a year.

3) Other Vaccinations: All pets must also have distemper vaccines. For dogs DHLPP will be sufficient and for cats FVRCP is recommended.

4) EU Health Certificate: We will supply you with this form already filled out with your pet's information for you to give to the vet. We will need to make sure your vet is USDA accredited as this form must also be endorsed by the USDA.

5) Health Certificate - APHIS Form 7001: This is the standard Health Certificate and your vet should carry it. Usually this Health Certificate does not require endorsement.

Let us know if your pooch takes to the canolis.

Taking Pets to Dubai - Pet Shipping

50 years ago Dubai was a small down in the dessert with 40,000 inhabitants. Now with over 1,500,000 inhabitants, it is one of the fastest growing cities on the planet. The United Arab Emirates has been become much more friendly towards pets with the influx of foreign workers.

The UAE does not permit the import of pets who have not been vaccinated against rabies. As a practical matter this means that pets must be at least 4 months old before they are eligible to enter the UAE as most vets will not vaccinate a pet against rabies before they are 3 months and the rabies shot must be 30 days old. Also there is a "2 pet-per-passport" rule and we will need a copy of your passport. If you have more than the allowed number, please let us know and we will attempt to receive an exemption.

Below are the requirements and timing of the things needed to be done to qualify your pets for entry into Dubai.

1) MICROCHIP – As soon as practical
All pets traveling to Dubai must be micro-chipped. Avid and Home Again are the most popular brands and most vets carry one or the other. While the exact regulations state the microchip must be an ISO chip, we have not encountered any difficulties with a chip not being ISO compliant. As the exact time the microchip is implanted is not crucial, a special trip to the vet may not be necessary. Please consult with your PMC to determine the most efficient plan of action.

2) RABIES VACCINATION – Between 30 days and a year from the date of travel
Each pet must be vaccinated against rabies and the vaccination must be older than 30 days before the pet can travel. Three year rabies vaccines are increasing in popularity and we have found most to be acceptable. Your PMC will review your specific vet records and verify with the UAE. The rabies certificate must show a date of birth instead of just an age. If you are not sure of your pet's exact birthdate, it is acceptable to estimate.

The microchip number should be noted on the rabies vaccination so if your pet has a valid rabies vaccination, you can just write in the number on the Rabies Certificate. If your pet does not have a valid vaccination or a microchip, the two can certainly be combined into one Vet visit. In this case your Vet should be type in the appropriate number.

3) DISTEMPER VACCINE – Between 14 days and a year from the date of travel
Both dogs and cats need to be vaccinated for distemper. Most dogs receive a DHLPP or DHPP shot as a standard vaccination. The same is true for cats and FVRCP. These are combination vaccines which contain the necessary distemper component and satisfy the requirements. Bordatella or "kennel cough" is also a recommended vaccination for dogs.

4) IMPORT PERMIT – Within 30 days before the date of arrival
All pets must obtain an import permit and it is valid for 30 days from the date it is issued. We recommend submitting an application no later than 2 weeks before your proposed travel allow flexibility. It usually takes about 7 working days to obtain, however in rush situations, we have been able to secure the Import Permits on an expedited basis.

In most circumstance we will obtain the Import Permit for you unless you have indicated to us that it is something you wish to take care of.

5) APHIS 7001 HEALTH CERTIFICATE– Within 10 days of arrival in Dubai
Your Vet will need to issue an APHIS 7001 Health Certificate. This is a six part form issued to your Veterinarian by the USDA and they will have the form on hand. The 7001 number will be located in the bottom left corner of the form.

Multiple pets can go on one APHIS 7001 as long as they are the same species. If you have a dog and a cat, you must get a separate form for each. California and North Carolina have a State Health Certificate form which is also acceptable. Please make sure the microchip number for each pet is listed on the form. The APHIS 7001 and State forms do not need the endorsement of the USDA, however some airlines have internal policies which require it. Please check with your PMC for the latest developments.

That's it and remember to take plenty of water!

Transporting Pets to Switzerland - International Pet Shipping

With its majestic Alps and reputation as the center of the banking universe, Switzerland is truly one of our more beautiful destinations.

The requirements are fairly straight forward, however many of our clients have us clear customs for them to avoid any delay or confusion.

Once there, the Crowne Plaza and Intercontinental in Geneva and the Crowne Plaza in Zurich offer comfortable accommodations for owner and pet alike.

The steps for getting your pets there are as follows:

1) Microchip: Each pet needs a microchip. The rules state a ISO microchip is required, however we have not had issues with standard AVID and Home Again chips.

2) Rabies Vaccination: Each pet will need to be vaccinated against rabies. The rabies shot must be older than 30 days and less than a year.

3) Other Vaccinations: All pets must also have distemper vaccines. For dogs DHLPP will be sufficient and for cats FVRCP is recommended. Also cats must be vaccinated against Chlamydia.

4) EU Health Certificate: We will supply you with this form already filled out with your pet's information for you to give to the vet. We will need to make sure your vet is USDA accredited as this form must also be endorsed by the USDA.

5) Health Certificate - APHIS Form 7001: This is the standard Health Certificate and your vet should carry it. Usually this Health Certificate does not require endorsement.

Please send video if your pets learn to yodel.

Taking Your pets to Singapore

Singapore is one of the 3 remaining true city-states and is a popular destination for many of our financial services clients.

There is a 30 day quarantine period to contend with and it is important to reserve space as soon as possible. Space fills up quickly and often the wait for space can reach 90 days. Often times we are able to expedite the process soplease let us know if you need any help and we will get the paperwork started for you.

The requirements are as follows:

1) Microchip: Each pet needs a microchip. The rules state a ISO microchip is required, however we have not had issues with standard AVID and Home Again chips.

2) Rabies Vaccination & Certificate: You have to have the original rabies certificate and it must be within 30 days and a year of travel. 3 year vaccines are not acceptable.

3) Other Vaccinations: All pets must also have distemper vaccines. For dogs DHLPP will be sufficient and for cats FVRCP is recommended. Also cats must be vaccinated against Chlamydia.

4) Health Certificate - APHIS Form 7001: This is the standard Health Certificate and your vet should carry it. You will need to make sure your vet is USDA accredited as this form must also be endorsed by the USDA. Timing is critical as the Health Certificate must be issued within 7 days of the flight.

5) Parasite Treatment: Each pet must be treated for external parasites within 2-10 days prior to the flight, and internal parasites within 4 days of the flight. These treatments should be noted on the Health Certificate.

6) Import Permit: You must obtain an import permit prior to arrival in Singapore. We can get the process started for you, or if you wish we can email you the forms.

7) Quarantine: There is a 30-day mandatory quarantine upon arrival in Singapore for pets coming from the US. This cannot be avoided. Reservations must be made with the Singapore Animal Quarantine Station prior to arrival.

Many of our client's have commented about the relief of stress using our comprehensive services to Singapore, so please let us know if we can help!

New Options for Pets to London Gatwick - Pet Shipping

Options in life are usually a good thing, and this week British Airways announced they now offer service for unaccompanied pets to London Gatwick as they were just approved by DEFRA for this route.

However, this new option does have some restrictions:

"Unaccompanied dogs, cats and ferrets will be cleared at the LGW Animal Reception Centre (ARC), for Veterinary inspection between the hours of 07:30 and 17:00, Monday to Friday only.

Please note that unaccompanied dogs, cats and ferrets, traveling under the Pet Travel Scheme, will not be allowed carriage on BA flights arriving into LGW on a Saturday, Sunday or a UK Public Holiday.

For any unaccompanied dogs, cats and ferrets traveling under the Pet Travel Scheme, arriving on a BA flight where the scheduled time of arrival is before 07:30, Monday to Friday, the animal(s) will be transferred to the LGW ARC to await Veterinary inspection for clearance.

Unaccompanied Pet Travel Scheme animals require a TRACES entry to produce a Common Veterinary Entry Document (CVED) upon arrival at the London Gatwick ARC. For British Airways customers, the TRACES entry charge has been incorporated in their existing PTS fee of USD 500.00."

The extra charge is fairly significant and while British Airways does a good job, they often have inconvenient temperature restrictions and a limited schedule from the US. Consequently, we usually recommend using Continental.

Restrictions on Pet Travel to Bangalore - Pet Relocation

We have just received an email from our agent in Bangalore, India that as of August 13th, no pets will be allowed to land in Bangalore International Airport.

The only airports which will accept pets are Mumbai and Chennai. There are already people on the ground working with the appropriate Ministries and we will let you know of any further developments.

Taking Pets to Mexico - Dog Shipping

Mexico City with its 23 million people is the largest city in the western hemisphere by population and second largest in the world!

Needless to say, we send a pet or two there. The good news is that it is really easy to get there. The one caveat is that we highly recommend using an agent to clear customs. We have had clients who have had difficulties doing it on their own. Of course we can help set this up for you.


The requirements are as follows:

1) Rabies shot between 30 days and a year old with the original rabies certificate;
2) All pets must be fully vaccinated.
Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo, Leptospirosis, (DHLPP);
Cats: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (FVRCP)
3) International Health Certificate - Most Vets carry the APHIS Form 7001. If not, we can instruct them on where to get it. It must be issued within 10 days of arrival.

There is no requirement that the health certificate be endorsed by the USDA. Let us know if you have any questions. Ole!

Taking Your Pets to Germany - Dog Shipping

We provide pet relocation services to Germany quite frequently because of both the business and military presence in a variety of German cities.

Getting there is fairly straight forward. Each pet will need:

1) Microchip;
2) Rabies shot between 30 days and a year old;
3) EU Health Certificate, Endorsed by the USDA – We have a fully editable copy which we will provide for you. We will also provide you with the address for the appropriate USDA office.
4) International Health Certificate - Most Vets carry the APHIS Form 7001. If not, we can instruct them on where to get it.

Germany is a fairly pet friendly place with many hotels which allow pets. However, the heightened appreciation for pets also carries additional responsibilities. If you live in a rented place the permission of your landlord is mandatory.

Germany has a ban on import of a few species and rules vary from state to state. A good resource is posted on the German Consulate's website.

Pet owners are legally responsible for the action of their pets in Germany. Insurance is available to safeguard owners in such situations and we strongly recommend looking into it when you arrive.