Here’s What You Need to Know Before Moving Your Dog Overseas

It’s not a walk in the park

I knew as soon as I decided to move that I wanted to bring my dog Maki with me.

She’s the sweetest 1-year old Bichon Frisé and we have been inseparable ever since I adopted her. Plus, leaving everything you know behind is never easy and everyone can benefit from some emotional support.

Before our departure, I felt we were 100% ready. She had all of her vaccines up-to-date, different kinds of certifications I can’t remember the names of, food, toys — you name it.

I thought I had covered everything there was to cover, so naturally I just sat back and relaxed until it was time to board our flight — what could go wrong, right?

Well, as fate would have it, I failed to consider some other important things that I only realized as they were happening.

If you are thinking about moving abroad with your pup or traveling for an extended period of time, here is what I wish I had known before moving overseas with my dog.

Get Your Dog Used to Being Out and About

If your dog suffers from separation anxiety and you don’t want to annoy your new neighbors with non-stop barking on your first few weeks living abroad, consider you most likely will have to take it with you when you go out, at least until it gets used to the new house or you can find a reliable — and affordable — doggy daycare.

Try to get your dog used to going to different places with you as some can find this overwhelming when it hasn’t been a part of their everyday routine, which can result in a lot of ugly crying and whining — and a lot of ugly looks coming your way too.

Start Crate Training ASAP

I cannot stress this enough. Despite already being crate trained, Maki was feeling miserable inside her carrier. The first couple of hours on the plane went great because she was sleeping, but it was a 7–8 hour flight, so when we got to hour 4 she was ready to get out of that thing.

Also, if your dog is too big it most likely will have to fly in cargo, which can be very stressful situation for them since you won’t be around to keep them company.

Remember, crate training won’t be easy, but it is important that your pet is comfortable during the flight so it goes smoothly — you don’t want anyone complaining about how loud your dog is being. Start as soon as possible and stay patient!

Make Sure Pet Supplies Are Available Where You Go

Don’t just assume they will have Fido’s favorite food or medicine available where you’re going. I didn’t have any problems getting Maki’s usual dog food, but I encountered a few problems when looking for her antiflea.

I wasn’t aware that I needed a vet prescription to get it since in my country it is an over-the-counter product, so I ended up getting a different one that didn’t work at all.

Keep in mind, a vet visit in the US is super expensive, so I couldn’t afford taking her just to get a prescription for an antiflea — at least not on my first month of living abroad. Always make sure to check if you will be able to get everything you need for your dog wherever you go.

Have Doggo Spayed/Neutered Before Leaving

This only applies if you’re planning to get your furry pal spayed or neutered and haven’t done it yet.

Since my decision of moving was kind of sudden, I figured I would just wait until we could go back to my country for a couple of months and get my dog scheduled for spaying then — or do it here. BIG mistake.

The cost can vary depending on where you go and — let me tell you — spaying is way more expensive here.

Also, there is a plethora of wildlife where I live and I was definitely not aware dogs in heat could also attract coyotes.

Another big reason for doing it before leaving is because it is better for your dog to get any procedure done by a veterinarian you trust — even if it’s a routine surgery — so consider getting that out of the way before moving.

Get that Wardrobe Ready

I had heard somewhere that dogs didn’t really need clothes because their coats and fur offered them protection against cold and hot weather.

I still decided to get Maki a couple of sweaters just in case— and oh boy I’m so glad I did. The minute we stepped foot outside the airport she was FREEZING — even while wearing a very puffy jacket, so imagine how she would have felt with no piece of clothing on herself!

Always make sure to check what the weather will be like throughout the year in your destination. It will make it easier for you evaluate if you’re going to need a jacket or booties for your furry pal— unless your dog is a breed that is able to withstand very cold weather, in which case it might not be that necessary.

Remember: Rules Are Different Everywhere

This might sound obvious, but sometimes people — myself included — tend to forget this.

Before moving I was pretty much only required by law to keep my dog up-to-date on her vaccines. That’s it. No registration, rabies tag, nothing.

In the city I live in now, pets are required to be registered within 30 days of arriving and to also wear a rabies tag at all times. If someone fails to comply there is a big $300 fine waiting for them.

Do some research beforehand or ask other pet parents around your area — you don’t want to get a fine for something that could have been easily avoided!

If Possible, Travel Without Your Dog First

I know this last one might sound weird, but just think.

It will be hard enough for you to get used to a completely new place, with new people and different ways of doing things.

You will need time to get used to a new routine and getting familiar with everything.

Adding a dog to that mix can make the process twice as hard as you’re both getting used to a new normal.

Plus, it will most likely add an important expense to your budget and when you first move somewhere, it is better to live tight until you’re able to get a job or some sort of income.

Waiting a couple months to get settled is definitely a good call. Then, when your dog joins you you will most likely already have some sort of routine and you can focus on helping doggo get used to this new chapter in its furry life.

I did bring my dog with me and it didn’t make things any easier at first, but that decision will depend on how quick your pal is able to adapt to a new normal.

All in all, even though I thought I was 100% ready and everything would go smoothly, there can always be setbacks on the way and it can be overwhelming when things don’t go as planned.

Just keep reminding yourself that eventually, things get easier and those frustrating moments become a learning experience. I love having my dog with me and I wouldn’t have it any other way.