Thinking of jetting off with your furry friend? Hold on tight! While many of us see our pets as family members, not all countries roll out the welcome mat for them. Some places have rules so strict that they might make you think twice about bringing Fido or Fluffy along.
From long waiting periods to mountains of paperwork, these top 10 countries don’t mess around when it comes to pet quarantine.
Australia
Australia takes pet quarantine very seriously. All dogs and cats must spend at least ten days in quarantine, even if they’re healthy and have all their shots. Before arriving, pets need a lot of tests and paperwork. The process can take months and cost thousands of dollars. This country does this to protect its unique wildlife from diseases that pets might bring.
New Zealand
Like its neighbor Australia, New Zealand has strict rules for pets. Dogs and cats must quarantine for at least ten days as well. They’ll need many health checks and treatments before they can enter. In these cases, you’ll need to start planning at least six months before your trip. New Zealand is strict because it wants to keep out diseases that could harm its native animals and farm animals.
Japan
Japan requires all incoming dogs and cats to be quarantined for at least 12 hours. If your pet doesn’t have the right paperwork, they might have to stay for up to 180 days. They’re especially worried about rabies, so your pet must have rabies shots and blood tests. The process can be expensive and takes careful planning.
Singapore
Singapore has a reputation for being clean and safe, and this extends to its pet rules. Similar to the first two countries, cats and dogs must quarantine for at least ten days. If your pet is coming from a high-risk country, the quarantine can last 30 days. Singapore requires many health checks and vaccinations. The good news is that this country has nice quarantine facilities where your pet will be well cared for.
Hawaii (USA)
While not a country, Hawaii has its own strict pet rules. Dogs and cats must quarantine for at least five days, and sometimes up to 120 days. This place is rabies-free, and it wants to stay that way. There’s a lot of paperwork and tests needed before your pet can enter. If you plan well, you might be able to do a shorter quarantine or even avoid it altogether.
Iceland
Iceland takes pet health very seriously. Dogs must quarantine for 14 days in a special facility. Cats have it a bit easier with a shorter quarantine. Unfortunately, they don’t allow some dog breeds at all. The country has been free of many pet diseases for decades and wants to keep it that way. You have to start planning if you want to bring your pet to Iceland.
United Kingdom
The U.K. used to have a six-month quarantine for all pets. Now, if you follow all the rules, your pet might avoid quarantine. But if you miss any steps, your furry friend could face an extended stay in a facility. The U.K. is especially strict about rabies and certain parasites.
Fiji
This tropical paradise comes with tough pet rules. Dogs and cats must quarantine for at least 30 days. Sometimes, this can be split between Fiji and your home country. Fiji is worried about diseases that could harm its local animals. The process is expensive and takes a lot of planning. Some breeds of dogs aren’t allowed in at all.
Malaysia
Malaysia requires at least seven days of quarantine for dogs and cats. This can be longer if your pet is coming from a high-risk country. It has strict rules about rabies and other diseases. You’ll need to get several vaccinations and health checks before your pet can enter. The process can take several months to complete.
Taiwan
Taiwan requires at least seven days of quarantine for cats and dogs. If your pet doesn’t have the correct paperwork, this can extend to 21 days. This Asian country is very careful about rabies and other diseases. You’ll need to start planning at least five months before your trip. There are also restrictions on certain dog breeds. Make sure to check all the rules carefully.
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