How to migrate a pet to Australia
Bringing a pet to Australia involves a detailed process to ensure the health and safety of both the animal and the country's unique ecosystem. Australia has very strict biosecurity measure in place to ensure foreign diseases or parasites are not imported, where voluntarily or not.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to migrate a pet to Australia.
Research the requirements
Australia has strict regulations for importing pets, and it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements for your type of pet. The type of animal, breed, age, and country of origin can affect the import process. The Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) is the governing body that sets the rules and regulations for pet importation, so it's essential to refer to their website or contact them directly for up-to-date and accurate information.
Check your pet's eligibility
Not all animals are eligible to be imported into Australia. Certain dog breeds, such as Pit Bull Terriers and Japanese Tosas, are restricted, and importing them may not be allowed. Other animals, such as reptiles, birds, and rodents, may have additional requirements and restrictions. Make sure your pet is eligible for importation before proceeding with the process.
Microchip your pet
All cats and dogs imported into Australia must be microchipped for identification purposes. The microchip must meet the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards and be implanted before any vaccinations or blood tests.
Vaccinate your pet
Your pet must be vaccinated against certain diseases according to Australia's requirements. For dogs, this typically includes vaccinations against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and kennel cough. For cats, vaccinations against feline enteritis, rhinotracheitis, and calicivirus are usually required. Vaccinations must be administered by a licensed veterinarian and documented in a vaccination certificate.
Blood testing
Depending on the country of origin, your pet may need to undergo blood testing for specific diseases, such as rabies. The blood tests must be done at an approved laboratory and within a specific timeframe before the pet's travel date.
Apply for an import permit
You must apply for an import permit from DAWE to bring your pet to Australia. The permit must be obtained before your pet's travel and may require additional documents, such as vaccination certificates, blood test results, and a copy of your pet's microchip details.
Organise quarantine
All cats and dogs imported into Australia must undergo a mandatory quarantine period upon arrival. The length of the quarantine may vary depending on the country of origin and compliance with import requirements. Quarantine must be pre-booked at an approved quarantine facility, and fees apply.
All cats and dogs imported into Australia must undergo a mandatory quarantine
Book your pet's travel
Once you have met all the requirements and obtained the necessary permits, you can book your pet's travel with an approved airline or pet transport service. It's important to ensure that your pet meets the airline's requirements for travel crates, documentation, and health certificates.
Prepare your pet for travel
In the weeks leading up to your pet's travel, you may need to prepare them for the journey. This can include acclimating them to their travel crate, ensuring they are comfortable with confinement, and providing any necessary medications or calming aids as recommended by your veterinarian.
Complete arrival procedures
On arrival in Australia, your pet will undergo customs and quarantine clearance. This may include an examination by a veterinarian, verification of microchip and vaccination details, and any other required procedures. Once your pet has been cleared, they will be released from quarantine and reunited with you.
Working with a professional pet transport service and consulting with your veterinarian can be helpful in ensuring a successful pet relocation process.
