Ask the Pet Travel Experts

Name: Ashley
Number of Pets: 2
Pet Type: dog - Boston Terrier/French Bulldog (30 lbs & 4 years old, normal health) cat (6 years old, normal health)
From: Iowa
To: Shanghai

My husband has a potential job opportunity for two years in Shangai. I've researched quite a bit about transporting pets to China, bit I am still worried sick...these animals are my children and I couldn't bear being without them. So, can you help put my mind at ease by answering a few questions?

1. I'm extremely worried about the long flight from Iowa to Shanghai. Will I be allowed to put water in the kennels? Is their a veterinarian available throughout the flight? What happens on the transfer? Is the cargo area always climate controlled? How long could they potentially wait on the tarmac?

2. What is the process upon arrival? Is there any way to avoid quarantine? What are the conditions of the facility? Why can't you see this facility? Will I be able to provide food for my animals while they are quarantined?

3. What things should concern me most about having my pets in China? I know there are certainly cultural differences regarding keeping a dog as a pet. Can the police really destroy my dog just for being off a leash, growling, lunging at a person etc.? I think this is it for now....thank you in advance for helping me through my concerns. As you can tell I want to be sure I provide the safest transition and environment for my "kids."
-Ashley

Hi Ashley,

First of all, your concerns are totally understandable. The possibility of moving to a different country with your beloved pets in tow definitely requires a lot of serious thought and preparation. Though we can't answer all of your questions here, we will direct you to the China Import Rules and Requirements on our website and invite you to contact us at your convenience. One of our Pet Relocation Specialists will be happy to speak with you about the services we offer or, if you decide to do the move yourself, you can find plenty of information on our site and pick up our eBook as well.

We'd also like to invite you to check out our Facebook page and become a fan of Petrelocation.com. Plenty of other people have relocated their pets with great success and are more than willing to share their thoughts, experiences and advice with you.

This should point you in the right direction, Ashley. Remember, there's a vibrant pet community out there just waiting to engage and to help. Let us know if there's anything else you need, and good luck!