How to bring my pet to China
When considering a move to China, you may want to bring along more than a few suitcases. If you have pets, having your furry companions with you in the new country would definitely be comforting. But is taking your pets to China complicated and costly? What will happen to your pet upon arrival and what is it like caring for animals in China? Find answers to these questions in the article below.
First, think about how long you will be staying in China. If you are coming for a short stay, it may be a better idea to leave your pet with friends or family back home to save it the stress of a long-distance move and climate change. If you plan to become a long-term resident in China, take the time to study the rules and regulations for moving your pet into the country and make sure you have enough time to prepare. Note that you can only bring cats and dogs into China.
What documents are needed for bringing your pet to China?
Here are the documents needed to take your pet to China (along with any applicable fees):
- International health certificate issued in the country of origin stating the name, breed, and gender of your pet with a glued-in photograph
- Vaccination record demonstrating that the animal was given a rabies shot within the last 12 months but no less than 30 days before scheduled departure. Other vaccinations may be needed depending on the species of the animal. For instance, cats also need to be vaccinated against Enteritis, Respiratory Disease Complex Vaccinations, and Feline Panleukopenia
- Your residential details in China
- Copy of your airway bill (if the pet is transported as cargo)
Upon arrival, you will need to go to the Animal and Plant Quarantine Office (CIQ) at the airport with all the required documents and fees. Your pet will be required to undergo a quarantine of 7-30 days (depending on the country of origin and point of arrival) at one of the CIQ's facilities.
You can also contact a professional pet relocation company for help. They will be able to provide you with the most recent information and offer assistance with documentation and shipping.
Important:
You will not be able to visit your pet during quarantine, so please consider this before taking your pet to China, as the process can be quite stressful for both you and your pet.
Transporting your pet in China
In most cases, your pet will need to be brought into the country by air. To prepare for the trip, it is best to contact your chosen airline in advance and ask about the policy and requirements for pet air travel. Generally, you will need to prepare the following:
- your pet's health certificate (this should include proof of vaccinations and an examination by a licensed vet issued within several days of travel)
- IATA (Air Transport Association) approved crate for your pet (if they travel as cargo)
- a sufficient supply of food and water for your pet for the length of the trip
- medication for your pet (if needed).
Your pet (depending on its size and airline regulations) will either be transported as cargo or with you in the cabin (for small pets).
You should also check with your airline about the cost of pet transportation: this will be typically calculated on a 'per kilo' basis once your pet is weighed in its crate at the airport.
Pet care in China
Pets like cats and dogs are becoming more and more popular in China and most major cities and even smaller towns have all the needed facilities: dog walking parks, pet hospitals and pet shops. However, as pets are still considered a luxury in the country, vet services, as well as imported pet products, are expensive.
Make sure the climate of your destination in China is suitable for the breed of your pet. Southern China gets very hot and humid in summer, which can cause health problems in northern and long-haired dog and cat breeds.
Additionally, you should check with your Chinese vet about any additional vaccination your pet may need when living in China.
Important:
Be careful when purchasing pet supplies online or in small street stores, as they can be fake. Try to find a trusted pet shop in your area to buy feed and medicine from.
When walking your pet, make sure to be vigilant and not let them stray too far. Pet theft is an unfortunately common occurrence in China.
Useful link:
IATA (International Air Transport Association)
