Complete Guide to Taking Your Pet Overseas: Procedures and Preparation from Japan

Pet Transportation Procedures

You are going abroad with your pet, a precious member of the family. However, to move your pet between international,Requires complex procedures and careful preparationIt is.

This article provides step-by-step instructions on everything you need to know to take your pet overseas from Japan, from preparation to departure.

Key Points of the ArticleThe procedure is initiated by6 months agoRequired from (varies widely depending on the country you are traveling to)
Regulations and quarantine systems vary widely from country to country.
Actual cost data and specific preparation procedures
Expert advice to prevent problems

Table of Contents

Pet Travel Abroad: Basic Knowledge and Overall Preparation

Basics of Pet Travel Abroad

Why does it take so long to prepare?

There are three main reasons why a long preparation period is needed for your pet's international travel

1. Duration of Immunization and Antibody Formation

  • Need at least 30 days after rabies vaccination for antibodies to reach sufficient levels
  • 2-3 weeks for blood test results
  • Many countries set additional waiting periods

2. Time to obtain various permits

  • Apply for and obtain an import/export permit: 1-2 months
  • Issuance of health certificate: just before departure
  • Preparation of other necessary documents: 1-3 months

3. Fulfillment of quarantine requirements

  • Fulfillment of quarantine requirements, which vary from country to country: 3-6 months
  • Advance booking and coordination: 1-2 months
  • Additional medical examinations and treatments: as needed

Overview of travel preparation

Four Pillars of Preparation1. Health Care and Medical Treatment
Vaccinations (rabies, other necessary vaccines)
Health Examination and Certificate
Microchip implantation
Parasite control and other treatments 2. Legal Procedures and Permits
Application for import/export permit
Advance Reservations for Quarantine
Preparation and certification of required documents
Local registration procedures 3. Transportation Arrangements
Airline Selection and Reservations
Preparation of transport cages
Secure transportation on the day of the event
Confirmation of procedures at transit point 4. Local Preparation
Securing Accommodation upon Arrival
Survey of local pet care environment
Securing veterinarians in case of emergency
Preparation of necessary equipment

Important Changes

1. deregulation in the Corona Disaster

  • Shortened quarantine periods in many countries
  • Introduction of online application system
  • Increased remote pre-confirmation

2. country regulatory updates

  • Tighter EU uniform regulations
  • Relaxed requirements for Asian countries
  • Started introduction of electronic certificates

3. new transportation options

  • Increase in dedicated pet transportation services
  • Changes to carry-on baggage requirements
  • Improvement of the environment in the cargo hold

Preparation timeline: planned preparation starting 6 months in advance

6 months prior to the start of travel preparation

1. information gathering and planning

At the same time as selecting a destination, the following information is collected

Check details of entry restrictions

* Types of vaccinations required
* Quarantine period
* Prohibited breeds of dogs and cats
* Age restrictions

Prepare a list of required documents

* Health Certificate
* Immunization certificate
* Microchip registration certificate
* Export/Import Permit

2. consultation with veterinarian and health care plan

Important medical procedures to be performed at this time of year:

Initial Health Examination

* Check overall health status
* Comprehensive checkup including dental checkup
* Check for pre-existing conditions and precautions
* Assessment of travel risk by age

Preparation of immunization plans

* Rabies vaccination
* Schedule of other required vaccines
* Plan if additional vaccinations are required
* Obtain vaccination certificates

4-5 months prior to the start of the specific procedures

1. microchip implantation and registration

Microchip procedure

* Chip selection conforming to ISO standards (11784/11785)
* Veterinary implantation surgery
* Completion of registration procedures
* Obtaining and keeping registration certificates

Blood test and antibody titer test (*if necessary)

* Conduct rabies antibody titer testing
* Obtain a certificate of inspection results
* Confirmation of required values (> 0.5 IU/ml)
* Determination of whether or not additional inspections are necessary

2. consideration and reservation of transportation method

Points to consider when choosing an airline1. Availability of direct flights
- Stress reduction due to transfers
- Simplification of procedures
- Reduced transportation time
2. Pet Transportation Achievements
- Availability of dedicated facilities
- Staff Experience
- Accident Response System
3. Confirmation of transport conditions
- Carry-on baggage allowed
- Temperature Control System
- Water supply and observation system during transportation
4. Cost Comparison
- basic rate (i.e. excluding optional service fees, usage charges, etc.)
- Additional Service Charges
- Cancellation Conditions

3 months prior to the start of full-scale preparations for transportation

1. preparation of transport cage

Selecting a cage that meets IATA standards

* Appropriate size for the pet's size
* Check materials and strength
* Ensure ventilation
* Installation of water supply equipment

Start of cage training

* Step-by-step familiarization training
* From short time to long time
* Creating a comfortable environment
* Stress Reduction

The following article explains gauge selection in more detail.

2. start the paperwork

Application for import/export permit

* Application to the animal quarantine station
* Preparation of required documents
* Commission payment
* Check application status

Preparation of health certificates

* Confirmation of issue date
* Confirmation of required test items
* Check language requirements for certificates
* Certification procedures at public institutions

2 months prior to the start of the project] Adjustment and confirmation of details

1. confirmation of local acceptance

Confirmation of procedures upon arrival

* Details of quarantine procedures at the airport
* Required payment items
* Check the time required
* Reconfirmation of required documents

Establishment of an emergency system

* Local veterinary hospital listings
* 24-hour hospital confirmation
* Confirmation of Interpretation Services
* Check insurance coverage

2. detailed plan for the day of transportation

Departure Day Schedule1. Pre-departure preparations
- Final health check
- Start time of dietary restrictions
- Timing of Hydration
- Adjustment of physical activity
2. Airport Procedures
- Recommended arrival time
- check-in counter
- quarantine counter
- Order of Submission of Documents
3. Precautions during transportation
- Cage Checks
- Attachment of identification tags
- Emergency contact information display
- How to ensure comfort

Detailed requirements and preparation points by country

Comparison of regulations for major destinations

*These requirements vary depending on the country of departure. Please contact us for details.

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Transportation to EU countries

Basic Requirements
  • Quarantine period: No quarantine at quarantine facility (document examination only)
  • Microchipped (conforms to ISO standards 11784/11785)
  • rabies vaccination
  • Vaccination required after microchipping
  • Inoculation completed at least 21 days prior to travel
  • Rabies antibody test (0.5 IU/ml or higher)
  • At least 3 months required from positive result to travel
  • Health Certificate in EU format

Transportation to the U.S.

Basic Requirements
  • Quarantine period: Basically no quarantine (document examination only)
  • Proof of rabies vaccination
  • First vaccination at least 30 days prior to travel
  • Ensure that any additional vaccinations are on time
Additional requirements by state
  • Additional health certification required in some states
  • Regulations for certain breeds may apply
  • Required vaccines vary by state.

Transport to the U.K.

Basic Requirements
  • Quarantine period: No quarantine at quarantine facility (document examination only)
  • Microchipping
  • rabies vaccination
  • Rabies antibody test
  • Health certificate in GB format
special note
  • Adopt the same standards as in the EU
  • Health certificate must be obtained within 10 days prior to travel
  • Tapeworm extermination required (dogs only)

Transport to Australia

Basic Requirements
  • Quarantine period: 10 days minimum (facility quarantine required)
  • Obtaining an import permit
  • Microchipping
  • Multiple blood tests performed
  • Various vaccinations
  • Advance Reservations for Quarantine Facilities
preparatory period
  • At least 7 months of preparation time required
  • Staged procedures and waiting periods available.

Transport to New Zealand

Basic Requirements
  • Quarantine period: 10 days minimum (facility quarantine required)
  • Obtaining an import permit
  • Microchipping
  • Various blood tests
  • Certificate of Immunization
  • Quarantine Facility Reservations
special note
  • Requirements similar to Australia
  • Strict quarantine system adopted
  • Sufficient time for advance preparation is required

Transportation to Singapore

Basic Requirements
  • Quarantine period: 0-10 days (depending on country of departure)
  • Obtaining an import permit
  • rabies vaccination
  • Antibody test required if from certain countries

Important Notes

1. preparation period
  • Preparation is recommended 6 months in advance (varies widely depending on the country you are traveling to).
  • Longer preparation required for some destinations
  • There is a certain waiting period for vaccinations and tests.
2. confirmation of information
  • Regulations in each country are subject to change without notice
  • Always check with official agencies for the latest information.
  • Check airline regulations as well.
3. consultation with experts
  • Consult your family veterinarian as soon as possible.
  • Selection and meeting with transport companies
  • Consider using an import/export agent if necessary

*These requirements vary depending on the country of departure. Please contact us for details.

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Details of transportation costs

Breakdown of expenses1. medical expenses
- Microchip implantation: 5,000-10,000 yen
- Rabies vaccine: 5,000-8,000 yen
- Antibody titer test: 15,000-20,000 yen
- Medical checkup: 10,000-15,000 yen
2. processing cost
- Import/export permit: several thousand yen to several tens of thousands of yen
- Document authentication: 5,000-10,000 yen per document
- Quarantine Reservations: Varies by country
3. transportation expenses
- Carry-on: 10,000-50,000 yen
- Cargo room transportation: ¥50,000-¥200,000
4. Other Expenses
- Transport cage: 20,000-50,000 yen
- Insurance premium: 10,000-30,000 yen
- Reserve: about 201 TP3T of the total amount

Details and how to choose a means of transportation

Types and characteristics of transportation methods

1. carry-on transport

Advantages
  • Your own eyes are always on your pet, so you can check on its condition at any time.
  •  Can be transported in a stable in-flight environment.
  • Immediate response is possible when needed
  • Simpler procedures than other transportation methods
Main conditions
  • Total weight 8 kg or less (total weight of pet and carrier)
  • Use a carry-on case within the size specified by the airline
  • Advance reservations required.
  • Seats need to be reserved.
Preparation Points
  • Be sure to inform the company that you are bringing your pet when booking a flight.
  • Train the child to become accustomed to the designated size carry
  • Pay special attention to your physical condition on the day of the event.
  • Prepare for in-flight comfort.

2. deposited transportation

Advantages
  • For transportation of medium and large dogs
  • Relatively simple procedure
  • Common and proven transportation methods
  • Economical in terms of cost
Main conditions
  • Use of IATA-approved transport cages
  • Prior medical examination recommended
  • In accordance with airline regulations
  • Seasonal restrictions apply.
Preparation Points
  • Allow the child to become fully accustomed to the transport cage.
  • Preparation for a comfortable environment
  • Pre-confirmation of health status
  • Complete preparation of required documents

3. freight forwarding

Advantages
  • Management system by professional staff
  • Temperature control and other facilities are in place
  • Safety-oriented transportation
  • Handles transportation of large dogs and multiple dogs
Main conditions
  • Need to work with specialized vendors
  • Early reservation procedure is essential.
  • Use of IATA-standard transport cages
  • Detailed health certification required.
Preparation Points
  • Ensure adequate preparation time
  • In-depth discussions with specialized contractors
  • Advance Preparation of Required Documents
  • Schedule coordination on the day of transportation

Important Points for Selection

1. Consideration of pet characteristics

  • Body size (size and weight)
  • Age and health status
  • Personality and environmental adaptability

2. confirmation of transport conditions

  • Distance and time required
  • Availability of transit locations
  • Seasonal and climatic conditions

3. preparation time and cost

  • Required preparation time
  • Estimated total cost
  • Reserve Funds

4. support system

  • Airline Services
  • Scope of support for specialized vendors
  • Emergency Response System

*Please be sure to check with the airline you plan to use for the latest information, as regulations may differ depending on the airline. *

Specific preparations for transportation

1. preparation of transport cage

Required Standards

* IATA-approved materials and construction
* Appropriate size (detailed measurements)
* Required labeling items
* Accessory requirements

Cage equipment

* Installation of water-absorbing mats
* Installation of water supply unit
* Attachment of identification tag
* Display emergency contact information

2. physical conditioning and preparation

Pre-departure health care

* Timing of dietary restrictions
* Adjustment of physical activity
* Stress reduction measures
* Hydration management

Required equipment

* Standing medications (if necessary)
* Favorite toy
* Familiar blanket
* Spare collars/leads

Common problems and countermeasures

Pre-departure Troubleshooting

Major problems and solutions1. Documents
- Delayed issuance → Application with time to spare
- Listing error → multiple checks
- Expiration → Creation of control chart for expiration date
- Discovery of deficiencies → prior confirmation consultation
2. Health Related
- Reaction to immunization → follow-up period
- Illness → Secure a backup travel date
- Insufficient test values → time secured for retests
- Stress Symptoms → Gradual Preparation
3. Transportation
- Unable to make reservations → Secure alternative flights
- Inclement weather → flexible schedule adjustment
- Last minute cancellation → insurance coverage
- Trouble at transit point → Confirm support system

Post-Travel Adjustment Support

Immediately after arrival, please note

1. entry procedures

Procedures at the quarantine counter

* Order of submission of required documents
* Inspection/confirmation flow
* Commission payment
* Approximate time required: 30 minutes to 2 hours

Troubleshooting

* How to deal with incomplete paperwork
* If additional testing is required
* Use of Interpretation Services
* How to contact the Consulate

2. physical condition of pets

Care after prolonged transportation

* Hydration management
* When to resume eating
* Ensuring rest time
* Observation points for changes in physical condition

Assistance in adapting to a new environment

Steps in Environmental Adaptation1. Day 1 - Day 3
- Resting in a confined space
- Minimal environmental change
- Adequate contact with the owner
- Record water and food intake
2. 4th day - 1 week
- Gradual expansion of the scope of action
- Little by little introduction to the new environment
- Start short walks
- Establish a rhythm of life
3. 2 weeks to 1 month
- Normal life pattern established
- Switch to local pet supplies
- Developing neighborhood walking trails
- Building relationships with new veterinarians

Specific advice from PetAIr JPN

1. key points of health care

Pre-departure health check items

* Important blood test items
* Check cardiac function
* Necessity of dental checkups
* Additional immunizations required or not

Notes by Age

* Puppies and kittens
* For adult dogs and cats
* In the senior term
* If you have a pre-existing medical condition

2. stress measures

Stress Reduction Methods for Long Transportation

* Utilization of pheromone products
* Use of familiar items
* Pre-cage training
* Consider drug therapy (if needed)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the minimum preparation time required?

A1: Although it varies from country to country, the minimum preparation time is 3 months, and usually about 6 months. Some countries, especially Australia, may require more than 8 months.

Q2: What is the estimated total cost?

A2: It depends greatly on the destination.
Neighboring Asia: ¥200,000-500,000
North America and Europe: 300,000-800,000 yen
Australia: 1-1.5 million yen
*Including quarantine, processing and transportation costs

Q3: What precautions should I take with older pets?

A3: Special attention should be paid to the following points
Preliminary detailed medical examination
Consultation with a Veterinarian
Careful selection of transportation method
Thorough physical condition

Q4: What should I be aware of for connecting flights?

A4: It is important to check the following
Ensure sufficient transit time
Quarantine regulations at transit points
Care system at the airport
Airline response system

Checklist and Preparation Calendar

Checklist of required documents□ Microchip registration certificate
Rabies Vaccination Certificate
□ Certificate of blood test results
Export quarantine certificate
□ Health certificate by veterinarian
□ Import permit of the destination country
□ Pet photo (for proof)
□ Immunization history
Customs Declaration
Quarantine Reservation Certificate

Preparation Calendar Details

Items to be checked 6 months before departure

□ Confirmation of destination regulations
□ Consultation with a veterinarian
Microchip implantation
Rabies Vaccination
□ Appointment for blood test
□ Prepare budget estimates

Items to be checked 3 months before departure

□ Airline Reservations
□ Purchase of transport cage
□ Quarantine Reservation
□ Start of application for required documents
□ Investigation of local veterinary hospitals
□ Consider pet insurance

Final confirmation and summary

Final confirmation items just before departure

Items to be checked 48 hours in advance1. Final confirmation of documents
- Check expiration dates of all documents
- Securing the required number of copies
- Making copies
- Digital Preservation
2. Health Status Check
- Final physical examination
- physical checkup
- Start of dietary restrictions
- Initiation of moisture management
3. Check your belongings
- Condition of transport cage
- Preparation of necessary medications
- Check emergency supplies
- Identification tag check

Post-departure follow-up

1. initial on-site response

Within 24 hours of arrival

* Check hydration
* Providing small portions of meals
* Checking the status of excretion
* Physical condition monitoring

2. start a new life

First week

* Establish a rhythm of life
* Familiarity with the environment
* Confirmation of local veterinary hospital
* Confirmation of walking routes in the neighborhood

Summary: For safe travel

Bringing your pet abroad is a major challenge that requires careful preparation and planning. This complete guide will help you prepare, paying special attention to the following points:

Summary of Key Points
1. Ensure adequate preparation time
- Minimum 3 months, ideally 6 months or more
- Planning with room to spare
- Reserve schedule secured
2. Ensuring procedures are followed
- Strict adherence to deadlines
- Multiple document verifications
- Consultation with Experts
3. Pet Health Care
- Periodic health checkups
- Stress measures
- Physical health records
4. Post-arrival care planning
- Ensure adaptation period
- Local Support System
- Emergency Response Preparation

Safe and secure overseas travel with pets.

Traveling abroad with your pet, a precious member of the family.
There are many things to prepare for, such as regulations, required documents, and transportation procedures in each country, which can be very anxious.
PetAir JPN will be there for such anxieties of pet owners and provide full support from travel planning to arrival.
PetAir Support DetailsProposal of the best plan according to the regulations of the destination country
Support in preparing necessary procedures and documents
■ Safe and comfortable transportation options
Reliable support until arrival

Reliable Support System✓ Courteous and experienced staff
✓ Understand and respond to the latest regulatory information from each country
✓ Thorough safety management during transportation

I want to start a new life with my beloved pet."
Let us help you give shape to that desire.

First, please contact us to discuss your needs at a free consultation.
Our experienced staff will propose the best plan for you.

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Consultation is completely free of charge.
Free online consultation is also available.
Weekends and holidays are also available.

[References

  1. Animal Quarantine Service, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, "Import and Export of Pets".
  2. IATA "Live Animals Regulations
  3. European Commission "Pet Travel Regulations".
  4. CDC, "Bringing Animals into the United States."
  5. Australian Government "Cats and Dogs Import Conditions"

    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!

Risako Seto

Since childhood, she has been fascinated by animals and entered the field of veterinary medicine to work in a job that protects their lives. As a certified pet nurse and an expert in international pet transportation, I have helped many pets and their families take a new step forward.
We strive to offer transportation plans that are tailored to each individual animal, which we can only do because of our medical knowledge and deep love for animals. We support optimal international transportation with your pet's mental and physical health as our first priority.

[Qualifications]

pet nurse
Animal Health Technician (AHT)
Veterinary Technician (VT)

At PetAirJPN, he is responsible for supporting safe and comfortable transportation of pets as an international pet transportation consultant.

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