Is this the first time you are travelling with your fur buddy?
It seems an overwhelming number of steps to plan and clear those papers before he/she can finally explore a new land. No worries, we are here to help break down the major planning steps to clear both customs. Taking Japan trip as an example,
[ As it is one of the strictest countries when it comes to clearing the papers. ]
*Note, not all countries have the same requirement. Look below for the common schedule I & II countries Singaporeans like to bring their fur buddies to, and the requirements to enter those countries.
Step 1
Plan more than 7 months ahead
This step requires visiting a vet at least 210 days before departure. Bring your fur buddy to a vet for rabies vaccination [ Depending on clinics, it costs around $60 plus or more], and ensure he/she has a microchip.
He/she has to have a microchip before vaccination. [If the microchip is the usual Singapore one it should be fine. Japan requires a microchip in ISO 11784 and 11785 (15-digit microchip code which consists only of numbers) (ISO: International Organisation for Standardisation)] Vaccination is allowed only for fur buddy who is 91 days old and above.
Find the right airline
View here.
Choose the right carrier
View here.
Train your fur buddy
View here.
Step 2
After 30 days or more
[Strictly has to be after 30 days], send them for the second rabies vaccination. Take the titer test for rabies on the same day of vaccine. *NOTE!! Please check the laboratory the titer testing will be done. Usually Lab approve by World health Organisation is the safest option like the lab from UK, Animal and plant health agency at Woodham Lane New Haw Addlestone Surrey UK - KT15 3 NB. Check out the list of approved lab in Japan as this list may have changes. Link to list
This is one of the most important step, please ask the clinic where they send the blood for testing as every clinic sends to different labs. The testing is the highest expense of all the paperwork. The price range from $600 - $ 800 plus or more. Tips to reduce expenses, some clinic allows you to use CDC vouchers, you can use your voucher to pay the test partially.
Step 3
Stay tune for more information.