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Don’t be an EXPAT with an EXPET

on : May 2, 2017 comments : (Comments Off on Don’t be an EXPAT with an EXPET)

As an EXPAT we accept that we are living within a transient society and our base is often determined by work. It can be a wonderful lifestyle but along with it, we have to expect the unexpected and live with the stresses that come our way.

It can be isolatory at times and wouldn’t it be great, that when we come home we are met by a furry companion such as a dog or a cat, but please be aware of the responsibilities that they bring with them.

It is so often appealing to bring in a stray or abandoned pet, as a companion – but if you do – please make them a forever friend. Consider the bigger picture – what’s going to happen when you are moving on to pastures new?

As a Pet Transport Coordinator, importing and exporting pets into UAE, I often see ‘owners’ struggle with the complexities and costs in shipping their loved ones. I can alleviate the complexities, but the cost is something every pet owner has to factor in, prior to taking on a furry friend.

Cats and dogs give you unconditional love, you provide them with a safe environment where they do not need to think of survival or of defending themselves. Abandoned pets are thrown into a world they don’t understand or comprehend and struggle to survive.

Prepare for your pet, as you would do for yourself in the event of moving (in some cases with a tight turnaround) so you are not contributing to the world of EXPETS

1)     Make sure your pet is microchipped and has current annual / rabies vaccinations.

2)     Research the import requirements of your home country, or of possible future destinations, so that you are prepared.

–         Countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa have strict rules and regulations. Preparation is ‘time bound’ and needs planning months ahead

–         Some counties allow pets to enter as excess / accompanied baggage – which is a lot cheaper than air freight cargo

–         Some countries have mandatory quarantine on arrival – which will add significantly to the cost of transport (i.e. Singapore can be up to 30 days, dependant on origin)

–         Some countries require your pet to have a rabies serology certificate (validity often between 1 yr. to 2 yrs.) don’t get caught out, as the minimum time from drawing a blood sample to departure can be a 6-month wait!

–         If you have a snub-nosed pet, please be aware that airlines can place a ‘summer embargo’ on pet travel due to high temperatures

3)     Contact your local pet travel agent for an estimate, so that you know the costs and processes involved and can put money aside for the inevitable move.

Packing up and shipping out, often places EXPATS into an emotional whirlwind of stress and anxiety. What I love about my job is that I can take the stress away in regards to their most treasured ‘fur-babies’ by taking on the responsibility for their travel and welfare. By importing pets, I see the owners’ glee and happiness as I reunite them with their treasured pets – so they are a family once again.

Please don’t be an EXPAT with an EXPET.

German Veterinary Clinic

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