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International Pet Transfers

Comprehensive guidance and logistics support for relocating your pet across borders safely, legally, and stress-free.

Service Overview

Safe & Compliant Pet Relocation

Moving pets internationally involves complex regulations, health protocols, and logistical coordination. Paws Source’s International Transfer division handles every aspect of the journey, from pre-travel veterinary assessments to customs clearance at your destination.

We work with IATA-certified handlers, accredited veterinarians, and international import authorities to ensure your pet travels in comfort and full compliance with destination country requirements.

⚠️ Important: Import regulations change frequently. Always verify requirements with the destination country’s Ministry of Agriculture or official government portal before booking travel.

Transfer Eligibility Check

Not all pets qualify for every route. Use our preliminary checklist to assess readiness:

  • Microchipped (ISO 11784/11785 compliant)
  • Up-to-date rabies vaccination
  • Healthy & cleared for travel by a vet
  • Destination country permits secured
  • Appropriate IATA-approved travel crate
Start Transfer Assessment

The Transfer Process

We manage the entire relocation timeline in five structured phases:

  • Initial Consultation & Route Planning

    We review your pet’s medical history, breed restrictions, and destination regulations to map a compliant travel route and timeline.

  • Health Certification & Documentation

    Our partner veterinarians conduct required examinations, administer vaccines, and issue official health certificates and rabies titers if mandated.

  • Crate Fitting & Travel Preparation

    We provide IATA-compliant crates, conduct acclimation sessions, and prepare all travel kits including food, water dishes, and medication logs.

  • Flight/Transport Coordination

    We handle airline bookings, pet travel documentation, airport check-in, kennel transfers, and in-transit monitoring.

  • Arrival & Customs Clearance

    Our destination agents meet your pet, navigate customs/agriculture inspections, quarantine protocols (if applicable), and deliver to your door.

Standard Documentation Requirements

While regulations vary by country, most international transfers require the following baseline documents:

Document Purpose Processing Time
ISO Microchip Scan Pet identification & import registration Immediate
Rabies Vaccination Record Proof of immunization (must be active on entry) Varies by vaccine schedule
Official Health Certificate Veterinary attestation of fitness to travel Valid for 10 days pre-flight
Rabies Antibody Titer Test Required for high-risk/strict countries 30-90 days post-vaccination
Import/Entry Permit Government authorization for destination entry 2-8 weeks processing

Frequently Asked Questions

How long before travel should I start the process?

We recommend initiating transfer planning 3–6 months in advance. This accounts for quarantine periods, titer testing wait times, permit processing, and airline schedule availability.

Are there breed or age restrictions?

Yes. Many airlines and countries restrict brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, pets under 8 weeks old, or pregnant animals. We verify all restrictions during the initial consultation phase.

Does Paws Source handle quarantine arrangements?

Yes. For destinations requiring mandatory quarantine, we partner with accredited facilities and manage all logistics, including transport, daily welfare checks, and release coordination.

What if my pet gets sick during transit?

All shipments include emergency veterinary protocols. Our handlers are trained in IATA live animal regulations and maintain direct communication with destination vet clinics for immediate care if needed.

Ready to Begin Your Pet’s International Transfer?

Submit a transfer request or speak with a relocation specialist to receive a customized timeline and compliance checklist for your destination.

Request Transfer Consultation
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