Pet Relocations
Your furry friend is a part of the family, so of course you would need them to come with you!
This blog post covers everything you need to know about relocating your pet, from choosing a pet transfer company, the process of importing your pet into Australia, tips to prepare your pet for a long haul flight, and how your pet may impact your rental application.
Choosing a pet transfer company
You want to know your pet is in safe hands and will be looked after during the transport process
Questions to ask the pet transfer company include what size container they use, how long the pet is capped at each layover destination, if there are any additional costs, and if pets are covered by insurance
Some pet transfer companies offer discounts for off-peak travel times or for transferring multiple pets at the same time
Importing a pet into Australia
When importing a cat or dog into Australia, you must apply for an import permit from the Department of Agriculture at least six weeks prior to the arrival of your furry friend.
You must also provide proof of rabies vaccination status. The rabies vaccination process must be commenced 6 months prior to importing your pet.
Your pet may have to undergo a quarantine period before they are released. Pets must be quarantined in Melbourne, so there are costs involved with transferring your pet after release. From 1 March 2023 there are new quarantine requirements which can get read about here
Cats and dogs must be micro-chipped by an International Organization for Standardisation (ISO) compatible microchip prior to commencing pre-export preparation
Certain breeds of dogs are prohibited in Australia, including the American pitbull terrier, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, Perro de Presa Canario, and wolf hybrids
Pets and rental properties
Having a pet can impact your rental application, and while certain states such as New South Wales and Victoria have laws which prohibit discrimination against tenants who own pets, often properties have multiple applications and landlords will choose families without pets over those that do.
With the current rental shortage, having a pet may make it more difficult to secure a rental property. We can guide you on how to put your best foot (and paw!) forward in your application, and our close relationship with local real estate agents gives us an advantage with tailoring strategies to increase your chances of being approved by landlords.
Preparing your pet for a long haul flight
You can help reduce your pets’ distress and discomfort during the transport process by ensuring that your pet is surrounded by familiar toys and bedding
Give your pet time to adjust once it arrives, try to maintain its normal routine with feeding, sleeping and walking times, and gradually expose it to new surroundings. Keep your pet calm, and avoid exposing it to too much excitement or loud noises.
Take your pet to the local vet for an introduction, and a check up to ensure they are in great health after they arrive
Give lots of cuddles and affection and be patient with your pet, giving them time to settle into their new home
