Often overlooked, moving family pets across international borders requires both forethought and planning.  Although not an expert in pet immigration (a term I may have just coined), the following provides information meant to ensure families are not needlessly separated from their pets.

Pet immigration is rather confusing as multiple U.S. agencies implement U.S. policy, most foreign nations have their own policies, and the laws vary based upon the type of pet.  In the U.S. the Department of State, the Department of Agriculture, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Customs Service all have a hand in implementing the rules.

To begin to understand your requirements as a pet owner, please visit the Department of State’s and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s websites.  Additionally, the United States Customs Service has published an informative booklet.

If you are moving your pet to another country, you should also make sure to conform your actions to the requirements of that country.

If you have any additional questions, please contact Gafner Law Firm.