A guide to the importance of considering the needs of your pets when relocating abroad

Making the move abroad can be a life changing decision for any individual or family and while finalising paperwork, securing finances and finding a picturesque second home may be foremost on your agenda, pet owners will also need to take into account how the upheaval will affect their beloved pets.

Most pet owners consider their animals to be an extension of their family who will also need to feel just as at home in their new country as they do. Relocation consultants can offer useful advice in this area.

-Transport: Pets will normally be transported in carriers that may need to meet specific dimensions or other requirements. Pets may also need their own ‘pet passport’ or immunisation information when they enter a new country. Placing comforting toys or an item of clothing with your scent should help pets to feel comfortable on their journey. Checking quarantine regulations are also imperative as you may need to spend a period of time parted from your pet.

-Count the cost: It’s costly to ship animals overseas for a host of reasons. Vaccinations, certificates, quarantine costs and other necessary spending can mount up quickly. Even the airline cost for moving your pet can be expensive depending on factors such as the size of the crate.

-Country conditions: Does the country you are moving to have restrictions about having pets in apartment complexes or are local veterinary fees extortionate? Attitudes towards animals vary in country to country and while dogs happily roam the streets in Thailand, other countries may have less relaxed attitudes to pets and pet welfare.

-Pet care: If all members of the family are in full-time work, you will need to investigate whether there are local kennel facilities, day care centres, dog walkers or even friendly neighbours who are willing to share responsibility for taking care of your pet.