Cat and Dog Relocation & Shipping to New Zealand
Planning to relocate your beloved pets to New Zealand? Ferndale Kennel offers a comprehensive door-to-door export service to ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Whether you prefer a full-service package or need assistance with specific steps, our team is here to cater to your individual needs. We have everything you need to know about pet relocation and shipping to New Zealand, including quarantine requirements, import regulations, top tips, and how Ferndale can assist you every step of the way.
Let’s start with what you need to know to enter New Zealand.
New Zealand is a notoriously strict country when it comes to letting people, animals and plant life cross their borders. This is to preserve the country’s natural beauty and avoid the spread of disease amongst flora and fauna.
Familiarise Yourself with New Zealand Pet Regulations
New Zealand has stringent regulations in place to protect its unique ecosystem from potential biosecurity risks. It’s crucial to familiarise yourself with these regulations to ensure compliance. The New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is the governing body responsible for overseeing pet importation. Their website provides detailed information about the specific requirements, documentation, and processes involved. Taking the time to understand and follow these regulations will help ensure a smooth entry for your pets into New Zealand.
Quarantine Period in New Zealand
It’s important to note that all cats and dogs imported to New Zealand must undergo a mandatory quarantine period. Upon arrival, they are required to spend a minimum of 10 days at a designated quarantine facility in Auckland.
Depending on the country of origin, pets will either be cleared for entry into New Zealand (Australian cats or dogs) or transferred to a quarantine facility (pets from all other countries) in either Auckland or Christchurch Airport. It’s worth mentioning that as of October 22, 2017, cats and dogs from all countries, including Australia, are no longer allowed to fly into Wellington Airport.
Import Permit and Quarantine Space
We will apply for the import permit and reserve quarantine space in New Zealand for you, taking care of the necessary administrative procedures. Because this quarantine is mandatory, it’s important that space is reserved before you book your flights to ensure your dog or cat has somewhere to go when they arrive.
New Zealand Import Requirements
To ensure a smooth entry into New Zealand, dogs and cats must meet certain import requirements. So what are they?
Health and Veterinary Considerations
Before your pets can travel to New Zealand, they need to be in good health and meet specific veterinary requirements. It’s crucial to schedule a visit to your veterinarian well in advance of the departure date. During the veterinary check-up, ensure that all vaccinations are up to date, including rabies vaccination, as per New Zealand import regulations.
Your veterinarian will also provide necessary treatments for internal and external parasites. Obtaining a health certificate and ensuring your pets are fit to travel is essential.
Rabies Vaccination and ISO Microchip
Pets must have received a rabies vaccination and be microchipped with an ISO-compliant microchip at least 6 months before shipment. The vaccination should be administered before or at the same time as the most recent vaccinations.
The microchip will inform the vet that your pet has had the relevant vaccinations and can connect your pet to you, should you become separated for any reason.
Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test (RNATT)
Pets must undergo a blood test to determine the antibody levels against rabies. This test should be conducted at least 3 months prior to the departure of cats and dogs.
Consult with our expert team to determine the optimal timing for the RNATT blood test. We can provide guidance on when and where to get this test done.
Internal and External Parasite Treatments
Certified applications of internal and external parasite treatments must be administered to pets at least 3 months before departure.
Additional Tests
Dogs also need to test negative for Babesia, Brucellosis, Leptospirosis, and Heartworm. These tests must be conducted at approved international laboratories.
Ferndale’s Top Tips for Pet Relocation to New Zealand
We recommend contacting us early in the planning process to ensure a smooth relocation journey. Here are some additional tips:
Tick Prevention
If your dogs frequently engage in hill walks and hiking activities, it’s important to take precautions against tick bites, which can carry Babesia. Reach out to us for information on testing and prevention strategies.
Guidance Throughout the Procedure
Our dedicated team will assist you at every stage of the relocation process, providing guidance and support to ensure a successful and stress-free experience.
It’s important to note that New Zealand has strict requirements for importing pets, and the procedure may take time. We recommend planning ahead and allowing for at least 6 months’ notice to ensure a smooth transition.
If you’re interested in our services and would like to obtain a price estimate and further details about travelling with your pets, please fill out the Shipping Enquiry form on our website as soon as possible. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is ready to assist you in making your pet’s relocation to New Zealand a seamless and memorable journey.
As you embark on the journey of pet relocation to New Zealand, it’s important to be well-prepared and informed about the process. Here are some additional details and insights to ensure a successful move:
Transportation Considerations for Pets in New Zealand
When it comes to transporting your pets to New Zealand, there are several options available. Air travel is the most common method, and it’s crucial to choose an airline that has experience in handling pet transportation and adheres to international pet travel standards.
Working with a reputable pet relocation service like Ferndale Kennel can help you navigate the complexities of airline selection and ensure the comfort and safety of your furry companions throughout the journey.
Preparing Pets for Travel to New Zealand
Helping your pets become familiar and comfortable with their travel crates is an essential step in the relocation process. Gradually introduce the crate to your pets, allowing them to spend time inside it with the door open, providing bedding and toys to create a positive association.
This will help alleviate any anxiety or stress during the journey. Additionally, maintaining a routine of exercise and mental stimulation before the trip can help reduce anxiety and ensure your pets are in a calm state for travel.
How Ferndale Can Assist You and Your Pets
Once you’ve decided on Ferndale Kennel, we will take care of all the necessary arrangements. Our comprehensive assistance includes:
Vet Work Schedule and Coordination
We will arrange the schedule and location of all required veterinary work for your pets. Our team will work closely with your veterinarian to book necessary appointments.
Documentation Preparation
We will prepare and certify all the required documentation, ensuring compliance with New Zealand’s import regulations.
Flight Booking
Ferndale’s pet travel experts will handle the flight booking process, ensuring the safest and most convenient travel arrangements for your furry friends.
Transitioning to the New Zealand Environment
Moving to a new country can be an adjustment for both you and your pets. Once you’ve arrived, take time to familiarise your pets with their new surroundings gradually. Set up a designated area in your new home where they can feel safe and secure.
Stick to their usual feeding and exercise routines as much as possible to provide a sense of familiarity. Also, consider introducing them to local veterinary services and engaging in activities that help them acclimate to their new environment.
How Ferndale Can Help You Relocate
At Ferndale Kennel, we understand that relocating your pets is a significant undertaking. With our expertise and personalised services, we strive to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. From handling documentation and logistics to providing guidance and support, our dedicated team is here to assist you at every step. Trust us to ensure the well-being and happiness of your beloved pets during their journey to New Zealand.
Pet relocation to New Zealand requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and a commitment to your pets’ well-being. By following the necessary steps and working with a trusted pet relocation service like Ferndale Kennel, you can ensure a seamless and successful transition for your furry friends. Contact us today to begin your pet’s exciting adventure to New Zealand!
