4 Steps to Simplify a Trip with Your Pet

Moving abroad is among the most thrilling experiences one can have. The prospect of a new life in a fresh, unfamiliar land is as exciting as it is anxiety-inducing. With various sights to see and things to try, such a move is always an adventure; however, the elation is often accompanied by anxiety, as the things that make your destination exciting also make it unfamiliar and unpredictable. The concerns may vary depending on the purpose of your move; be it a job, higher education, or for a new life, working out the details can be stressful, especially when embarking on   .  

And all that is even before you worry about the details of pet relocation. For your pet, leaving behind a familiar setting will be a stress-inducing affair. Since you’re moving abroad, you’ll need to make a few decisions about your belongings; it certainly isn’t practical to travel with every single one of your belongings, and there is no guarantee your future residence will be as accommodating as your current one since these things vary from country to country.

Before you can get used to your new home, you need to have a home and ensure your pets are permitted on the premises. This is the first detail you confirm, and knowing where you’re moving to makes the planning process far easier. Once you have a place to stay, you can begin planning your adventure abroad.  

Here Are Four Tips to Help Simplify Your Journey: 

Begin Planning ASAP 

It is natural to want to have all your possessions with you while you travel. The logistics of doing so are far from practical, and you’ll inevitably be forced to choose between the things you need and will take with you, and the things you won’t. You will have to decide between objects which have sentimental value and must be kept, objects you cannot do without in the new country, and objects which you can do without and leave behind. 

What to Pack and What to Leave Behind 

You can sort through your possessions according to the following criteria: 

• Things to Keep: These will be items you need for your life overseas or items near and dear to your heart. Personal possessions will need to be kept since you’re the only one who knows what you need in a new country and what you can live without. Make sure to keep any valuables on your person; jewellery is an example. 
• Things to Throw: You may or may not want to, but since you cannot take everything along, some things will have to go. What you keep and what you throw is up to you and the specifics of your journey. 
• What to store: This depends on your move and how long you intend to move for, if not permanently. Are you setting up permanently in a new country? Are you unsure about the future? Will you be returning? If you plan to return, storing your possessions in long-term storage is a relatively cheaper option.

Documentation Requirements 

As you’ll probably know at this point in your preparations, there is a mountain of paperwork you need to file before you can travel overseas, and even more so if travelling with your pet across borders. All documentation must be error-free and up-to-date, complete, stamped, signed, and so on. Preparing these documents can take time, and depending on the destination country, you should start your preparations well ahead of time. 

While import requirements vary, all countries will require a few basic documents before letting you enter: 

• ISO-compliant pet microchip
• Pet’s vaccination record
• Veterinary health certificate 
• IATA-approved pet crate
• Export documentation (NOC, quarantine, etc.) 
• Import documentation (Import permits, test results, quarantine) 

Complying with the regulations of two countries can be difficult. Add to that the health and safety requirements to fulfil, and your move can quickly become overwhelming, especially when you’re planning your future alongside your pet’s. If you find the process difficult or overwhelming, you can always hire a pet relocation partner or professional to ease the journey, make plans, and fulfil the documentation requirements on your behalf, so you can focus on your own trip while professionals look after your pet’s journey. 

Research Before you Fly 

It should go without saying that you should research your destination thoroughly before making any travel plans, and even more so if your stay is a lengthy one. Researching your state, city, and locality is extremely important; if your stay is long-term, then where you live, what you can get around you, where to eat, and where to shop are all important things to know about your new home. Other expats are your best bet for valuable information, and online forums are often available with people sharing their experiences. 

Every country around the world has its own rules and expectations when it comes to the behaviour of pets in public spaces. These rules vary with location and culture, so make sure to do your research before departing. Learning a few basic words or phrases in the local language will be immensely helpful, as it is likely a person may speak in a language other than English or your mother tongue. 

Need help relocating your pet? With door-to-door pet relocations available domestically and internationally by our expert pet handlers, we have you covered. Contact 08908909020 or enquiry@carrymypet.com for a booking today.