International Adoptions
Preparation of our dogs to go abroad
We have sent some of our dogs to Europe and North America. Basic requirements are similar, except that dogs travelling to Europe require a blood test and a long period before travelling, even if the test result is ok.
1. The process
First, a microchip is required, followed by an anti-rabies vaccination (our Dr recommends two anti-rabies shots one month apart). The dog must be 3 months old before the first rabies vaccination.
To Canada or USA
If the dog is heading for Canada or the USA, it can travel 30 days after the last rabies vaccination.
To Europe
If the dog is heading for Europe, a blood sample is drawn 30 days after the last rabies vaccination, prepared for sending, and sent by courier to an EU approved lab for testing (we use either a lab in Germany or the UK). If the dog passes the test, it can travel to Europe 3 months after the date of drawing the blood sample. If the test fails, a rabies vaccination is repeated and another sample prepared and sent a month after the new vaccination.
2. The cost of the veterinary services
The cost of the veterinary services including all vaccinations, drawing and preparing samples and health certificates is around US$200. In addition, if a blood sample is required, sample preparation, courier and testing is around US$120. All dogs require health certificates to travel. This includes a Nepal Government Health Certificate and a Fit to Fly certificate prepared by a veterinarian.
3. The dog can be sent as freight or can go as accompanied baggage
The dog can be sent as freight or can go as accompanied baggage - not all airlines have facilities for live cargo. An IATA approved crate is required and it must be of suitable size for the dog. Crate cost is around US$120 to $180, depending on dog size. Airfreight is the largest cost - we sent a 20kg dog to UK as freight recently on Qatar at a cost of US$700. Usually it can be cheaper if the dog travels as accompanied baggage.
4. Sponsorship
We have to keep and feed the dog before it travels and would appreciate it if the new owner can meet that cost as a sponsorship - US$20 per month.
Fostering and sending your dog abroad
If you have rescued a dog and wish to take it abroad, we can foster the dog and prepare for travel. Please contact us for details.