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Moving pets

Pets are part of the family, but bringing them with you can be challenging. International requirements vary from country to country, so it’s critical to work with quality international pet transport companies that are up-to-date with current import regulations. Moving pets may be simpler within Europe, but make sure that your pet has an official EU Pet Passport that shows your trusty companion has obtained the necessary medical checkups and vaccinations to cross borders safely. Also, be aware of varying pet relocation laws, even within the EU. One expat who tried to bring their parrot from the US to the Netherlands eventually gave up! If you're moving a cat or shipping a dog, and your company is paying for your relocation, make sure they know about your pets. In the Expatica article Strange but true expat tales, an HR manager in Germany was vexed when an employee needed to transport his pet lizard by taxi and expected the company to pay for it. In the end, the cost was not high compared to the overall cost of the relocation, so they did pay.

Pet culture

If you choose to bring a pet into your family after relocation, then check out how things work in your new country, such as whom to call should your pet go missing and the best places to choose pets. Dog and cat homes, for instance, may be a better bet than buying from another source. Understand the rules about pets in your country, such as cleaning up after your dog, and make sure you comply. Don’t always do as the locals do, as this may not endear you to your neighbours! Understand how pets are viewed in your new country of residence. You may find the local attitudes to pets and animals in general differ widely from your own.

Owning a dog improves your language skills

Walking the dog and chatting to other dog owners is a great way of breaking the ice and making new friends according to one Expatica blogger. In A helping hound in Holland, she admits that walking her dog has improved her Dutch immeasurably, and local dog training classes got her instructing her dog in Dutch rather than English.

Pet services

Looking for a dog, cat or fish-sitter, pet carrier, or even a kitten? Check out Expatica’s Pets & Animal section in Classifieds. For dog groomers and other services check out Expatica’s A-Z listings.

Pets are welcome in the Netherlands but there are strict rules relating to bringing pets into the country, particularly around proving they are healthy and are transported appropriately.

Visit our country sites

Moving pets

Moving pets

Moving pets

Pet culture

Owning a dog improves your language skills

Pet services

Pets - Essential Articles

04/01/2013 Bringing a pet to the Netherlands