Pet Relocation – What you Need to Know
If you’re moving to or from the Philippines with your pet you’re probably wondering what the requirements are. Import and export of house pets can be simple especially if you know what and what not to do. Like any other countries, importing and exporting animals to and from the Philippines requires time, effort, and paper work.
Here are a few basics on how to travel with your furry friends.
Microchipping
It is important your pets are microchipped, when they’re moving from the Philippines. This will serve as your pet’s identification should they be separated from their owners. Almost all countries require their pets to tagged. Be sure to have your cats or dogs microchipped before travelling with them.
Vaccinations
Only pets over 8 weeks of age are allowed to travel to ensure the safety of the animal. They should be vaccinated at least 30 days prior to travel and have an original rabies certificate. This health certificate should have the microchip number, your pet’s details, such as breed, markings, date of birth, sex, age, the validity period of inoculation, the serial number, product and manufacturer of the rabies shot.
When importing animals to the Philippines, their vaccinations should have been completed in less than a 12-month period to ensure they’re up-to-date. Otherwise, your pet may be denied entry to the new country. Cats should be vaccinated against feline panleukopenia virus, while dogs should be vaccinated against distemper, hepatitis, canine parvovirus and leptospirosis. If you’re moving to the Philippines, you’re not able to bring any kind of birds. Invertebrates, reptiles, fishes, rodents and rabbits are not required to have vaccinations. However, they need to pass other requirements. It is strongly advised to get further information from the Bureau of Animal Industry in this regard.
When exporting your pets from the Philippines, a request letter with your pet’s species, breed, sex, age, departure date, country of destination and contact details, as well as the email address of your Allied pet transporter, is required. You will also need a health certificate, which is endorsed by the National Veterinary Quarantine Service (NVQS).
Health Certificate
A standard health certificate must be completed by a licensed vet from your country of origin. The health certificate and the import permit are presented to the quarantine officer upon arrival to the Philippines. It is also essential your pets are treated for internal and external parasites 48 hours before departure. On the other hand, Rabies Titer Tests are not required in the Philippines. It is illegal to own exotic pets, according to the Republic Act 8485 or the Animal Welfare Act of 1998. Be careful when travelling with exotic animals as owning them may be punishable by law.
One of the best and most efficient ways to move your pet from the Philippines is to hire a professional pet relocator, such as the professionals who Allied partner with, to reduce much of the hassle. The team who work with Allied will make sure your pets arrive at their destination with the least amount of stress as possible. Moving with your fur babies can be easy when handled by professionals.
Contact your local Allied office for further advice.
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