Pet Precautions for International Movers
 

Most families consider their pets to be part of them. So when it is time to move, caution has to be exercised towards the care of the family pets too. Pets are just as delicate as human beings.

The age of the pet is vital. Like older members of the family, older pets would need special attention. The weather in the new country and seasonal changes might affect the pets of international movers. There might also be a difference in the attitudes of people in the new country. Housing rules might be strict when it comes to approving a pet in the area. This is because pets do carry diseases and they would have to undergo many tests before they are allowed in a new country. The tests can range from immunization, quarantines etc. Health certificates declaring the pets clean is mandatory in almost all countries. Some areas do not permit pets and would need approvals from all the residents. So these factors must be taken into consideration when an international mover decides where to move.

There has to be pet-specific research covering all the aspects mentioned above. The consulate and the company which is helping the international mover are good sources to gather this information. There would be special transportation needs and rules for pets and there are international pet transporters who can help with those. An important detail is the language of the documentation. All the personnel at the airport may not know English or the international mover's local language so all the documents must be translated in the local language. All other non-health related documentation also needs to be translated. The way an international mover's pet is to be transported is of utmost importance.

International travel is exhausting for most. It is no different for pets. The kennels have to be clean, food arrangements need to be made keeping in mind any notification of a special diet for special pets. The standards for pet transportation are specified for all countries so the kennels have to be structured to suit the pet entry requirements. They have to satisfy the rules of the country and the airline specifications. There are other factors such as making reservations for transportation, keeping pets in a safe space till the international movers can take them to the new house, separate pick ups for the pets, boarding and other services. Pet transportation companies are quite expensive so most international movers try to sort out the arrangements themselves.

Airlines are a great help with this. They provide assistance and can answer questions about whether one's pet can travel on the same flight, the baggage compartment conditions etc. International movers get special costs associated with their travel from their employer companies. So transportation costs for pets might be included. In case they are not, some employers make those expenses, tax deductible. Once all these have been taken care of, the pet himself/ herself needs to be prepared for the journey. Pets must be made to exercise daily to get them flexible. Diet should be monitored carefully so that they don't fall sick just before travelling. The kennels should have the right and clear and bold marking and everyone should keep a copy of the pets documents. Lastly, the pet should be dressed right for the travel and have clearly visible collars and tags for easy identification.