Pet Relocation Tips, Advice & Checklist
Are you relocating to Singapore with your beloved furry friends? Pets add a lot of joy to any household and we understand that you want them to join you on your move.
However, moving with pets can be tricky – especially if this is your first time relocating internationally with them. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide packed with tips, advice and a checklist to help make the process as smooth as possible for both you and your pets!
Preparing for the move
Before moving, it’s important to do some preparation work to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your pets. Here’s a checklist of everything you need to do before the big move:
- Contact the Singapore Embassy or Consulate in your current country for information on importing pets into Singapore. They will be able to provide you with a list of required documents, which may include a rabies vaccination certificate and health certificate.
- Get copies of all your pet’s vaccination records and medical history. Make sure your pet is up-to-date on all their vaccinations and has a clean bill of health from their veterinarian
- Book appointments with a veterinarian in Singapore to get any required vaccinations or treatments prior to arrival
- Arrange for transportation of your pet either through cargo or as carry-on luggage (depending on the size of your animal). Plan to fly with your pet in the cabin of the plane whenever possible – this is much safer and stress-free for them than travelling in the cargo hold. If you must transport them in the hold, be sure to choose a pet-friendly airline that allows animals to travel in pressurized cabins.
- Purchase a suitable pet crate or carrier for the transport. If traveling by car, be sure to secure your pet safely in the backseat or in a pet carrier. Make sure they have plenty of water and snacks to keep them comfortable on the journey. If travelling by air, purchase a sturdy crate or carrier that meets IATA requirements
- Label all belongings with your contact information so they don’t get lost during transit
- Make sure you have an adequate supply of your pet food, water and medication for the trip. Pack plenty of their favourite food and toys to help make the transition smoother
You’ll want to begin planning well in advance of your move – at least four to six weeks is ideal. This will give you plenty of time to gather all the required documents and make any necessary arrangements.
Tips For Cat & Dog Relocation
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a closer look at relocating your pets – specifically cats and dogs in particular.
Make certain to set aside some time to meet with your veterinarian and go over your travel plans with them. This is especially crucial if your pet is on medication and will require doctor’s visits in his or her new country of residence. Many airlines will want documentation from your veterinarian showing that your pet is healthy and has had all of the necessary vaccinations before traveling or immigrating to another country.
Give yourself enough time to ensure that you have all of your paperwork in order. In the case of an emergency, it’s a good idea to keep your vet’s contact information on hand as well.
Relocating Cats:
– Cats are generally quite adaptable creatures and will likely settle into their new surroundings fairly quickly. However, to minimize any stress during the move, it’s important to keep them in their familiar environment as much as possible – especially if they’re travelling in cargo.
– Make sure you have plenty of their favourite foods and toys to help make the transition smoother.
– When travelling by air, your cat must be placed in an approved IATA pet carrier. The carrier must be big enough for the animal to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably.
If you need help in finding the best cat products, read some reviews or online buying guides for feline products.
Relocating Dogs:
– Like cats, dogs are also quite adaptable but will likely experience some stress during the move.
– To help ease their transition, try to keep your dog in his or her familiar environment as much as possible and pack a few of their favourite toys and treats.
– Make sure you have an adequate supply of food and water for the trip. Depending on the size of your dog, he or she may need to be brought onboard the plane with you – in which case they will need to be placed in an approved IATA pet carrier.
– Like cats, dogs must be placed in an approved IATA pet carrier when travelling by air.
– If your dog is a larger breed, you may need to purchase a heavy-duty large dog crate that meets airline requirements.
Tips For Selecting The Right Crate For The International Transport
When travelling by air with a pet, it’s important to check the requirements of the airline your pet is travelling with. Airlines can vary in their requirements of crates and carriers and therefore it is essential you check beforehand.
The crate you buy also needs to meet International Air Transport Association IATA requirements. The following are some tips on how to choose the right carrier or crate for your pet:
– Make sure the carrier is big enough for the animal to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably
– The carrier should be made of sturdy materials like a heavy-duty steel crate with adequate ventilation
– Make sure you purchase a crate that is escape-proof
– The carrier must also be labelled with your contact information in case it gets lost during transit.
– The crate should be easy to clean and have a non-slip surface
– If your pet is travelling in cargo, the carrier must be able to withstand extreme temperatures
Tips for Dealing with Pet Anxiety during the transport process
The most important thing is you remain calm and patient throughout the process. Pets can sense their owner’s emotions, so if you’re stressed out, they will be too. Dealing with pet anxiety during transport can be difficult, but there are a few things you can do to help:
– Make sure your pet has his or her favourite toy or blanket with them during the trip. This will provide some comfort and familiarity, as well as help to reduce their anxiety throughout the trip.
– Talk to your veterinarian about prescribing anti-anxiety supplements or calming treats, if necessary. However, do not tranquilize your pet; most airlines have restrictions against it and will not allow your pet to travel in this condition.
– Make sure they’ve had a chance to walk about and urinate before putting them in their crate. This will make your furry ones feel more tired, which should make it easier for them to sleep. Make sure your pets have enough food and water available at all times throughout their trip.
– Plan plenty of stops along the way so your pet can get out and stretch its legs. This will also help ease any anxiety they may be feeling.
For more tips about dealing with pet anxiety and crate training, read “How To Train Dogs to Love Their Crates and Deal with Separation Anxiety” article at queenofreviews.com
The Final Countdown
With all the preparations in place, it’s time to start counting down to your big move! There are a few last things you need to know and do:
– Notify your pet mover of your travel arrangements
– Book appointments with a local veterinarian in Singapore
– Arrange for someone to take care of your pet while you’re settling into your new home
-When you arrive in Singapore, customs will need to inspect your pet. Be prepared for delays as this process can take some time. Have all your paperwork ready to present to the customs officer and make sure your pet is wearing their identification tag (including their name, your contact information and country of origin) and is wearing it at all times during transit. Also, pack a copy of their vaccination record and any other important paperwork in your carry-on bag.
-Once you’ve arrived in Singapore, there are a few things you’ll need to do in order to get your pet registered with the local authorities. This can be done at any of the following locations: Animal & Plant Quarantine Station, AVA or NEA. The following is a list of required documents:
– Proof of rabies vaccination
– Copy of your pet’s medical records
– Proof of ownership (e.g. registration papers, microchip documentation)
– A recent photo of your pet
The Singaporean authorities also require that all dogs be muzzled when out in public. There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as guide dogs or service animals, but for the most part, it is mandatory for all dog owners in Singapore to muzzle their pets when outside the home. For more information on the rules and regulations on bringing pets into Singapore, please the online guide at https://www.nparks.gov.sg/avs/pets/bringing-animals-into-singapore-and-exporting/bringing-in-and-transshipping-dogs-and-cats/preparing-to-bring-dogs-and-cats-into-singapore
The Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) is a cluster within the National Parks Board (NParks). Formed on 1 April 2019, it is the main touch-point on animal and veterinary matters in Singapore and the First Responder for all animal-related feedback. Ministry of National Development website.
When you engage an experienced pet importer, you can rest assured knowing that all the details have been taken care of – from paperwork and permits to ensuring your pet’s safety during transit.
To start, it’s important to engage a reputable pet mover to assist with your move. Not only will they know the best way to safely transport your pets, but they can also help you prepare all the necessary paperwork and ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible on moving day.
The Importance of Engaging a Reliable Pet Movers
When you engage the services of a reputable pet mover, you can rest assured knowing that all the details have been taken care of – from paperwork and permits to ensuring your pet’s safety during transit.
Reliable pet movers know what needs to be done to get your pets safely from point A to point B. They have extensive knowledge about international quarantine laws and how to navigate through airports with animals. Furthermore, reputable pet moving companies have staff that are trained in animal handling and first aid, so you can rest assured that your pet is in safe hands. So before making any decisions about relocating overseas, be sure to contact a pet moving company for advice and pricing information.
Types of services offered by most international pet movers:
- Consultation & Coordination services
- Animal Quarantine Reservation
- Application of Permits
- Custom Clearance
- AVS Clearance
- Airline Clearance in Singapore
- Pet Boarding
Tips for Selecting the Best Pet Relocation Company
When researching international pet movers, it’s important to consider the following:
– The company’s experience in relocating pets internationally
– Their accreditation by the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA) or other relevant governing body
– How they will handle your pet during transit – especially if they are travelling on a plane
– What kind of insurance is provided as part of their service
Conclusion
Relocating with pets can be stressful for both you and your furry friends. With a bit of preparation and organisation, and by following these tips and preparing adequately beforehand, you can help make the transport process as smooth as possible for both you and your furry friend.
We hope this guide has been helpful and that you and your pets have a safe and smooth relocation experience. If you have any questions or need more assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact the experts at Pet Export Singapore for help in relocating your pets. They will be happy to help!