Possible overseas move with dog?
We have lived overseas several times and we are possibly moving back overseas (Germany) because of a job transfer.This would be the first time we would take a pet with us. We have a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who is 2 years old. He would have to fly in his kennel because he is too big to be in the cabin with us and because housing is difficult to find (we need a large house because of several kids) he would have to be boarded for several weeks once we arrive overseas..... probably up to 8 weeks. I do not want to stress him and he has separation anxiety. Has anyone had any good experiences flying their dog overseas and also did you have to board your dog for an extended time? Please let me know your experiences regardless if they are good/bad. Thank you!!
Public Comments
- awesome that you are willing to try! find a boarding facility that will allow you to visit and socialise often. other than the shots, check to see if your dog will have to spend any time in customs!
- Please speak with your vet and make sure you have all your dogs vaccinations and get paper work up to date. Also make sure you have whatever paper work the air lines want. This may be copies or they may ask for originals from the vet. If possible see what the German's government need and want to allow your dog to enter the country. Make sure you have all your bases covered. My cousin took her Golden into France and the dog was ok but was a bit dehydrated when they arrived. Make sure the airlines has a way for your dog to get plenty of water while in the crate on the air plane. The airlines did provide a kennel but she had to reserve on well in advance. The airline did not provide bedding for the dog she took her own. She did say some airlines do not provide crates so check that out too. They too had to board the dog for 3 weeks only before they were allowed to bring him back home with them. The poor dog need to adjust a bit but being with his family once again was really all he needed. She told me that the key is having all the paper work in order. I wish you all the best of luck with your move.
- I don't know how it is in Germany, but I know that I looked into bringing a dog from the States to Europe, and it would have set me back about $5,000 and eight weeks for the dog in quarantine. (But if Germany has Rabies like the states, that probably wouldn't be the case in your situation) It may be that you keeping it confined in your home, a house arrest, might be sufficient. However, if you have to board it and your dog has separation anxiety as well... I would ask your vet that knows the dog well to see what he or she says. It sounds like a lot to put your dog through, and its worth considering what you will do once there - are you all planning on going back to the states for vacation? where will the dog be then? Are you going to move back to the states, are you willing to pay what is needed to get him back as well? It's great that you are willing to take your dog at all costs, but make sure it's worth it for him, too. I guess it depends on what alternatives you have available in the states, as well. Good luck, -c
- I bought 2 yorkies overseas and brought them to the states. My experience with Germans and boarding. AWESOME! All of the places I've had to kennel my dogs in Germany were very good with my pups. Germans handle dogs very well and treat them like people. I had to put my little guys under the plane with the cargo, and they were freaked out, but after a couple days, they were back to normal. You should expect your spaniel to not eat as often, and be a little shocked, but don't worry, they will return to normal as soon as you get your housing situation figured out. Try to find a nearby kennel, so you can visit regularly, so your dog don't think you abandoned him. Most places in Germany allowed me to pick my pups up for the day to go for a ride or whatever, and bring them back at night. I hope this helps and have fun in Germany, it's a beautiful place. I had to get a Health Certificate before transfering them from counrty to country, this had to be done 10 days prior to the flight so plan ahead and make sure you have all your paperwork on your carry-on.
