Importing a puppy
Importing a puppy within Europe involves various regulations that ensure the safety and health
of the animal and compliance with local and EU laws.
Here are the general steps and regulations to consider:
Pet Passport: The puppy needs a pet passport, which includes details about its identity, health status, and vaccinations.
Microchip: The puppy must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip.
Rabies Vaccination: The puppy must be vaccinated against rabies. The vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before travel if it’s the puppy’s first rabies vaccination. Puppies younger than 12 weeks may be exempt from rabies vaccination in some countries, but this can vary.
Tapeworm Treatment: For certain countries, a tapeworm treatment is required between 24 and 120 hours before entering.
Health Certificate: A veterinary health certificate issued by an authorized vet, stating that the puppy is in good health and fit to travel.
Waiting Period: After vaccination, there might be a waiting period before the puppy can travel, especially if it is the first vaccination.
Authorized Entry Points: Travel might be restricted to specific entry points where official veterinary checks can be carried out.
EU Pet Travel Scheme: For travel between EU countries, the puppy must comply with the EU Pet Travel Scheme, which includes all the points mentioned above.
Specific Country Regulations
Different countries may have additional or slightly different requirements:
United Kingdom and Ireland: Require tapeworm treatment and may have additional checks.
Norway: Has specific requirements for dogs coming from non-EU countries.
Sweden: May have additional veterinary checks.
Steps to Follow
Consult Your Vet: Your vet can provide detailed information and help with obtaining the pet passport and microchip.
Check Country-Specific Rules: Visit the official veterinary authority website of the destination country for the latest requirements.
Prepare Documentation: Ensure all paperwork, including health certificates and vaccination records, is in order.
Book with Pet-Friendly Transport: If flying, ensure the airline allows pets and is aware of all regulations.
General Requirements
for Transporting a Puppy in the U.S.
Transporting a puppy within the United States involves specific regulations and considerations to ensure the safety and well-being of the animal.
Health Certificate:
A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian is required. This certificate should indicate that the puppy is healthy and fit to travel.
Vaccinations:
The puppy should be up-to-date on vaccinations, especially rabies. Some states may have additional vaccination requirements.
Microchip:
While not always mandatory, microchipping your puppy is strongly recommended for identification purposes.
Age and Breed Restrictions:
Airlines often have age restrictions, usually requiring puppies to be at least 8 weeks old. Certain breeds, especially brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, may have additional restrictions due to their sensitivity to temperature and stress.
Carrier Requirements:
A suitable pet carrier that complies with airline or transport company regulations is necessary. The carrier should be well-ventilated, large enough for the puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Choose the Right Transport Method:
Air Travel: Suitable for long distances. Ensure the airline is experienced in handling pets and complies with international pet travel standards.
Ground Transport: Ideal for shorter distances. Look for companies that offer climate-controlled vehicles and regular stops for exercise and hydration.
Prepare the Puppy:
Acclimate the puppy to the carrier well in advance of the trip.
Take short trips to help the puppy get used to traveling.
Travel Arrangements:
Book direct flights if possible to minimize travel time and stress.
Schedule travel during mild weather to avoid extreme temperatures.
Documentation:
Keep all necessary documents, including health certificates, vaccination records, import
permits, and microchip information, easily accessible.
Comfort and Safety:
Pack a travel kit with the puppy’s essentials: food, water, leash, waste bags, and a familiar blanket or toy for comfort.
General Requirements
for Transporting a Puppy in Australia
Transporting a puppy within or into Australia involves specific regulations to ensure the safety and health of the animal, as well as to comply with the country's strict biosecurity measures. Here’s a detailed guide on how to transport a puppy within Australia and recommendations for reputable pet transport services.
Health Certificate:
A health certificate from a licensed veterinarian is required, certifying that the puppy is healthy and fit for travel.
Vaccinations:
Puppies must be up-to-date with vaccinations appropriate for their age, especially for parvovirus, distemper, and hepatitis. Rabies vaccination is not usually required for domestic transport within Australia.
Microchip:
The puppy should be microchipped, which is mandatory for pet identification and tracking.
Carrier Requirements:
A suitable pet carrier that meets the standards of the transport provider is necessary. The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and spacious enough for the puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Age Restrictions:
Puppies must generally be at least 8 weeks old before they can be transported. Some airlines may have specific age requirements.
General Requirements
for Transporting a Puppy in Japan
Health Certificate:
A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian is required, certifying that the puppy is healthy and fit for travel.
Vaccinations:
The puppy must be up-to-date on vaccinations, including rabies if applicable. For puppies under 3 months, rabies vaccination may not be required, but this varies.
Microchip:
The puppy must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip.
Age Restrictions:
Most transport services and airlines require puppies to be at least 8 weeks old before travel.
Carrier Requirements:
A suitable pet carrier that meets the standards of the transport provider is necessary. The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and spacious enough for the puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Quarantine:
If importing a puppy into Japan, there may be a quarantine period depending on the country of origin. Puppies from rabies-free countries might have a shorter or no quarantine period, while those from other countries could have longer stays.
General Requirements
for Transporting a Puppy in South America
Health Certificate:
A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian is required, certifying that the puppy is healthy and fit for travel. This certificate should be issued within a specific time frame before travel, usually within 10 days.
Vaccinations:
The puppy must be up-to-date on vaccinations, including rabies. Puppies typically need to be at least 12 weeks old before they can be vaccinated for rabies.
Microchip:
The puppy should be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip. This is essential for identification and tracking.
Carrier Requirements:
A suitable pet carrier that complies with airline or transport company regulations is necessary. The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and large enough for the puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Import Permits:
Some countries in South America may require an import permit for pets. It's important to check the specific requirements of the destination country.
Quarantine:
Quarantine requirements vary by country. Some countries may not have quarantine requirements for pets from certain countries, while others might impose quarantine periods.
General Requirements
for Transporting a Puppy into Africa
Health Certificate:
A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian is required, certifying that the puppy is healthy and fit for travel. This certificate should typically be issued within 10 days before travel.
Vaccinations:
The puppy must be up-to-date on vaccinations, including rabies. The rabies vaccination should be administered at least 30 days before travel and within 12 months of the travel date.
Microchip:
The puppy should be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip. This is essential for identification and tracking.
Import Permits:
Some African countries require an import permit for pets. It's crucial to check the specific requirements of the destination country.
Parasite Treatments:
Treatment for ticks, fleas, and worms is often required within a specific timeframe before travel.
Carrier Requirements:
A suitable pet carrier that meets the standards of the airline or transport provider is necessary. The carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and large enough for the puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Quarantine:
Quarantine requirements vary by country. Some countries may not have quarantine requirements for pets from certain countries, while others might impose quarantine periods.
Choosing the Right Pet Transport Service
Research: Look for reviews and testimonials from other pet owners to gauge the reliability and quality of service.
Verify Licensing and Certification: Ensure the company is licensed and follows international regulations for pet transport.
Request a Quote: Get detailed quotes from multiple providers to compare services and costs.
Discuss Health and Safety Measures: Ensure the company has protocols in place for the health and safety of your pet during travel.
Ask About Tracking: Choose a service that provides tracking options so you can monitor your pet's journey.