As you relocate to the Netherlands, you will have a thrilling journey with your cherished pet. This manual serves as your compass and provides vital advice for a smooth transition. Planning and paying attention to rules is essential when relocating your pet to a new nation. This guide assists with import regulations, ensuring you have the necessary paperwork (health certificates, immunization records) to comply with Dutch laws. In this charming country known for its pet-friendly culture and breathtaking natural settings, your pet’s comfort will be guaranteed. Prepare to make lifelong memories with your animal companion in the Netherlands!
Vaccinations and microchips
Each pet must have a microchip to identify them. Other forms of identification are not permitted. ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO Standard 11785 shall be followed by the microchip. AVID 9 and AVID 10 are currently accepted in addition to ISO in the Netherlands. Before receiving the rabies vaccine, the microchip must be inserted. An authentic Rabies Certificate stamped by the veterinarian is required for every pet. The Rabies vaccine must be at least 21 days old at the time of the last physical examination. Further details regarding the rabies vaccine:
- Animals can go to the Netherlands with a valid one-year vaccine (primary vaccine).
- Animals traveling to the Netherlands need a 3-year vaccine within the past year (excluding boosters).
Other recommended vaccines include:
- Dogs: distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and bordetella (DHLPP).
- Cats: FVRCP, which stands for Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia
EU health certificate
Your relocation coordinator will give you an EU Health Certificate, which your certified veterinarian must complete and sign in a different color ink from the certificate’s writing, typically blue ink. When issued by the authorized veterinarian and up until the date of the inspections at the EU point of entry, this certificate is valid for ten days.
USDA endorsements
The forms listed below must be submitted to your local USDA for approval to confirm that they are following their rules.
- Microchip Implantation Record
- Rabies Certificate
- EU Vet Health Certificate
- Airline Health Certificate
These forms should be easily accessible from your veterinarian, but it’s advised to phone ahead and confirm availability. Keep in mind that the EU Health Certificate must be completed by your veterinarian within ten days of departure. Please be aware, though, that this timeline varies when a business transfer is involved, where additional conditions can be necessary.
EU 5-day rule
If your dog or cat is traveling “non-commercially,” they need to take a flight within five days of you. The relocation will be categorized as a commercial transfer, which would result in greater expenses and different EU import restrictions and timelines if the 5-Day Rule cannot be adhered to. You will have to adhere to tighter import rules in such circumstances.
Unlisted countries and additional requirements
If you come from an “unlisted country,” your animal friend will need a rabies antibody test, also known as a titer. The following actions must be taken in this situation:
- Rabies vaccination (at least 30 days old before blood draw) and microchip
- Get a rabies test from a licensed vet
- Send to EU-approved lab for pet relocation to Netherlands.
If the blood test is successful, you must wait 90 days before submitting export documentation.
Flying to the Netherlands
When moving your animal friend to the Netherlands, it’s crucial to pick the proper airline because there are different regulations regarding pet transportation. Most airlines let you bring one small pet inside the cabin on trips under ten hours. You should invest in a roomy, ventilated travel container for dogs flying in cargo. The emotional requirements of your furry friend must also be met. You should try to de-stress your pet before the flight because many animals have travel anxiety. Maintaining a schedule for feeding and walking periods in the weeks leading up to the journey is also crucial. Additionally, in the days before, provide your pet extra affection and care. Additionally, guarantee your pet’s comfort by letting your pet become used to it for at least five days in the container you bought for the shipment.
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