Starting an Overseas Life with Pets: 7 Things You Need to Know [with Q&A].

The number of people choosing to live with their pets abroad is increasing every year. There are many reasons for this, such as overseas assignments for work, study abroad, international marriage, etc. Many people are thinking about starting a new life with their pets, who are an important member of their family.

However, living abroad with pets requires more preparation and knowledge than one might imagine. Language barriers, cultural differences, and differences in legal regulations are just a few of the many factors to consider. In this article, we present seven important points you need to know in order to live comfortably with your pet abroad, along with practical advice.

Point 1: Points to keep in mind when selecting a residence

When looking for housing overseas, special considerations must be made if you are traveling with pets. In many countries, finding pet-friendly housing can be more difficult than in Japan.

Basic points of property search

- Clear confirmation of permission to keep pets before signing a contract
- Confirmation of additional pet deposit (usually equivalent to 1-3 months' rent)
- Whether or not there are restrictions based on the type or size of the pet
- Availability of elevators (especially important for high-rise floors)

Environmental Checkpoints

- Availability of parks and green spaces in the neighborhood
- Distance to 24-hour veterinary clinic
- Access to pet supply stores
- Neighborhood dog runs and animal-related facilities

Column] How to Use Local Real Estate Agents

In many countries, the use of real estate agents is common. Especially when looking for pet-friendly properties,
The following points can be communicated in advance to ensure an efficient property search.
Type, size, and number of pets
Required equipment (yard, fence, etc.)
Budget (including deposit)
Environmental conditions in the desired area

Point 2: Local Veterinary Medical Conditions

Veterinary services abroad vary widely from country to country and region to region. Advance research and preparation will provide peace of mind in the event of an emergency.

Points to consider when selecting a veterinary hospital

- Reputation by word of mouth and in the local community
- Clinic hours and availability of emergency services
- Language (with or without English support)
- Check the reservation system (in many countries, reservations are common)

Trends in Treatment Costs

- Basic consultation fee (varies widely from country to country)
- Vaccination costs
- General treatment cost
- Necessity of Insurance Coverage

Column] How to find a veterinary hospital that offers Japanese-language services

You can find veterinary hospitals with Japanese-language services in the following ways
Inquiries to embassies and consulates abroad
Information gathering in the local Japanese community
Information exchange on SNS
Japanese company's expatriate network

Point 3: Differences in laws and regulations

Laws and regulations concerning pets vary widely from country to country, and violations can lead to unexpected problems.

General Regulatory Matters

- Registration system (e.g., mandatory microchipping)
- Required vaccinations
- Rules for public places (e.g., leash obligation)
- Penalties for Violations

Differences by Region

- Breed restrictions (restrictions on the keeping of certain breeds of dogs)
- Limit on the number of animals that can be kept
- Restrictions on keeping animals on balconies
- Rules for disposal of feces when walking

Column] Comparative Table of Regulations in Major Countries

U.S.A.: Regulations vary from state to state, with additional regulations at the municipal level.
EU countries: microchipping mandatory in general, restrictions on cross-border movement
Australia: particularly strict quarantine regulations
Asian countries: large differences in regulatory stringency by region

Point 4: Adaptation to climate

Living abroad requires adaptation to a climate that differs greatly from that of Japan. Adequate preparation and measures are important to protect the health of your pets.

Health care due to temperature differences

- Precautions in hot regions
- Adjustment of walking time (early morning and evening recommended)
- Check pavement surface temperature
- Appropriate indoor temperature control (22-26°C recommended)
- Adequate hydration

Measures to be taken in cold climates

- Prepare warm clothing (depending on body size and hair length)
- Paw protection with anti-freeze
- Appropriate indoor humidity control
- Vitamin supplementation considerations

Required Preparation List

- Thermo-Hygrometer
- Indoor Air Purifiers
- Thermal insulation/cooling mat
- Emergency temperature management supplies

Column] Notes on different climates

Dry areas: Caution against skin problems, use of humidifier recommended.
Tropical regions: parasite prevention is especially important
High altitude: caution against altitude sickness, gradual adaptation to the environment
Cold weather: Pay attention to strain on joints, ensure indoor exercise

Point 5: Obtaining pet supplies

Often, familiar Japanese pet supplies are not available locally, so securing alternatives becomes a challenge.

Buy Local

- Use of large pet store chains
- Use of online shopping sites
- Quality check of local brands
- Responding to price range differences

Recommended items to bring from Japan

- Food recommended by your family doctor (1-2 months' supply)
- Familiar medications and supplements
- Favorite Toys
- Dedicated grooming products

Column】Information on Japanese pet stores that ship internationally

International shipping services from major online pet stores
How to use the forwarding service
Precautions for delivery (e.g., restrictions on chemicals, etc.)
Cost comparison and estimated delivery time

Point 6: Community relations

Building relationships with the local pet community is key to a comfortable life.

Benefits of Community Participation

- Get the latest local information
- Helping Each Other in Emergencies
- Socialization Opportunities for Pets
- Exchange of information among owners

Trouble Prevention and Remediation

- Understanding of cultural differences
- Observance of basic manners
- Neighborhood Communication
- Secure emergency communication network

Column] Using SNS to Find Communities
“`
How to use Facebook Groups
Local pet-related applications
Search for local hashtags on Instagram
How to get information about offline meetings and events
“`

Point 7: Preparation for returning home

It is important to consider preparation for returning home from the planning stage of living abroad.

Management of required documents

- How to keep immunization records
- Preparation of Health Certificate
- Proof of microchip registration
- Confirmation of quarantine conditions upon return

Timeline of Preparation for Homecoming

- 6 months before: Start checking quarantine conditions
- 4 months before: Start of necessary vaccinations
- 2 months before: Coordination with airline companies
- 1 month prior: Final physical examination

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Pre-departure Preparation

Q1: When should I start preparing for life abroad?

Ideally, we recommend starting preparations a year in advance. The following items in particular take time
Microchipping and registration
Completion of required vaccinations
Obtain blood tests and certificates
Local Housing Search and Procedures

Q2: How much should I budget?

The following items should be considered
Travel Processing Fee: 150,000-300,000 yen
Initial local expenses: approx. 200,000-400,000 yen (housing deposit, etc.)
・Emergency deposit: Approx. 300,000 yen (for emergency medical expenses, etc.)
*Varies widely by country and region

Health Care

Q3: What special precautions should I take with older pets?

Comprehensive pre-departure medical examination
Local treatment plan development in case of pre-existing medical conditions
Stress management for environmental changes
Selecting a travel route that takes into account flight times
We recommend that you consult with your veterinarian and make a careful decision on whether or not to travel.

Q4: I plan to visit a hot country.

・ Short-headed dogs (e.g., French bulldogs) should be especially careful.
Adjustment of walking time (early morning and evening recommended)
Maintain indoor environment (air conditioning required)
Hydration management
It is important to consult a veterinarian in advance and take appropriate measures.

About Communication

Q5: I am worried about the language barrier with local veterinarians.

The following measures are effective
List English (local language) describing symptoms
Use of translation apps
Use of photographs showing the pet's condition
Confirm in advance which hospitals offer Japanese language services.

Q6: I would like to know where to consult in case of trouble.

Please check the following contact information in advance:
Local Japanese Embassy
Emergency numbers for pet-related emergencies
Japanese-speaking veterinarians
Local pet community manager

Living Environment

Q7: I am concerned about restrictions on keeping animals in my apartment.

It is recommended that the following points be verified in advance
Pet-ownership clauses in contracts
Size and type restrictions
Additional cost
Notification to neighbors of pet-ownership required or not

Q8: Are there any restrictions on bringing in pet food?

Regulations differ from country to country:
Unopened commercial products are generally acceptable.
Homemade food is basically not allowed.
Or if there is a limit on the amount of
It is recommended that you check local regulations in advance and consider alternatives.

Returning Home

Q9: I am worried about quarantine measures when I return to Japan.

Ensure that the following preparations are made
Conduct and record necessary vaccinations
Obtain blood tests and certificates
Contact the quarantine station in advance
Coordination with airlines
Expert assistance will ensure a smooth return home.

Q10: Is it possible to live abroad for a long period of time?

If you pay attention to the following points, you will have no problems:
Conduct periodic health checkups
Adaptation measures to local climate
Information Gathering in the Community
Emergency Response Preparation
If you have any concerns, we recommend that you consult with an experienced professional.

Other frequently asked questions are explained in detail in the following articles.

Summary: Final advice for successful living abroad

Accompanying your pet on an overseas assignment is a major challenge that requires careful planning and preparation. However, with proper preparation, you and your precious family member can enjoy a comfortable life in your new environment.

Summary of Key Points

1. the importance of advance preparation

- Planning from the earliest stages
- Preparation and management of required documents
- Investigation of the local environment

2. adaptation to local life

- Careful consideration of housing selection
- Confirmation of medical system
- Building Relationships with Communities

3. long-term perspective

- Establishment of health care system
- Emergency Response Preparation
- Preparing to return home

These are the action items that must be kept in mind

1. fully understand and comply with local laws and regulations
2. maintain thorough pet health records
3. build community networks early
4. plan and carry out preparations for returning home

Three final points to remember

Flexibility

- Unforeseen circumstances are bound to occur.
- Always be prepared with alternatives.

Periodic review

- Environments and situations change constantly.
- Adjust your plan as needed!

Utilization of Experts

- By consulting with experts when necessary.
- Many problems can be prevented

When to consult a specialist

Consultation with a specialist is recommended, especially in the following cases
- Starting point of travel preparation
- Preparation of required documents
- When selecting local housing
- The stage of consideration for returning home

PetAir offers free consultations on pet life abroad. Our experienced staff will provide specific advice tailored to your situation.

Finally.

Living with your pet abroad can be a wonderful experience, full of new discoveries and joy. It is true that preparation is hard work, but it is the first step toward creating new memories with your beloved pets. We hope that this article will help you to relieve your anxiety about living abroad and prepare for a fulfilling experience.

*Regulations for each country may be updated at any time, so please be sure to check with official agencies for the latest information.

Please share your experiences and opinions!

Do you have any experiences or questions about traveling abroad with your pet?

If you have actually experienced this, please share with us the points you took care of in your preparation and any problems you had while traveling. We also welcome questions from those who are thinking of traveling to Japan in the future.

Is it possible to move to this country? How long do I have to prepare?

Please feel free to comment on any concerns you may have, such as

Your comments will be of great help to others who are struggling with the same issues. Please share your thoughts and questions in the comments section below!