PETS

from Sai Kung November 2020

CHUI SUI CENTRAL

pets Ask a vet.. Dr Pauline Taylor shares her tips for relocating with your pet

When planning your pets relocation it's important to be organised, here are nine tips on making the process easier for both you and your furry companion:

1. Start at least six months in

advance. Every country has its own laws regarding pet imports. If not done correctly, your pet may not be allowed to enter. In extreme cases, a pet arriving without the proper paperwork can be seized and euthanized. Contact the correct Government departments for the current laws.

2. Contact the airline you hope to use.

Flight schedules and available air cargo space may have changed due to Covid. Some airlines will not transport certain breeds that may pose a risk of dying on the flight. Avoid your pet laying over anywhere. We’ve all read about stories of animals being “left on the tarmac” and through no fault of the owner or transporter the pet dies.

3. Use a reliable pet relocation

company. Look for a track record of moving pets and a professional/friendly response to your inquiries. Look into what the pet transporter can do to assist should things not go according to plan.

4. Consider what you get for your

buck. I understand the stigma put on pet parents about leaving them behind, but if your bank balance doesn’t allow an airfare for your pet, in some cases they may be better rehomed. Personally I do not agree with excuses, I have heard many during my career.

5. If you are going to oversee a pet

relocation yourself, do not expect your vet to know everything. Locally registered vets are required to check your pet and issue a health certificate for export purposes out of Hong Kong. This must be presented at check in. The declaration must also be co-approved/signed by a local Government veterinary surgeon and takes time. Don’t expect to get this on the day of the flight.

6. Book your pet on a flight before

you, especially if they have to quarantine at the destination. Most pets travel well, they may be scared but their stress control systems take over, some will sleep or pretend to and don’t forget they may arrive jet lagged. I don’t generally recommend a pet gets sedation for the flight. I think it’s important they are tuned in to what is happening around them.

7. Check the requirements for airline

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approved travel crates. Check the shape and size before you buy the product. Allow your pet access to the crate before the journey and reward them for going in and out. Teach them how to access a water bottle. Airline staff will not open cages during the flight, but water containers may be topped up. Finally send them away with a favorite soft small toy or one of your old shirts that has your smell on it.

8. Keep up to date with the latest

requirements in both the origin and destination countries. As spaces can change or get cancelled, your pet may be left behind as you go ahead. Pet boarding facilities at the destination may be under quarantine controls and at present many of these facilities are booked out. Other countries like the UAE demand a declaration that cats do not carry Covid-19 and have been in pre-flight quarantine for 14 days.

9. Your pet will be so happy to see

you again at the end of their journey that they will get on with their new life so long as they have you by their side. Get them into a standard routine as quickly as possible and stick to it.