Should You Rehome Elderly Pets Prior to an International Move?

Many pet owners cannot imagine parting with elderly pets that have been with them since they were just weeks old. Such a separation is traumatic for the pets, as well as for their devoted owners. But as you prepare for an international move, would it be best all round to re-home your elderly pets?

Consider the Pets' Best Interests

As pets age their needs change, they slow down and they start to develop health issues that require close attention. It is important to consider the pets' welfare and to come to a decision that will best suit their needs.

Younger animals usually bounce back quickly from an international move, but if you have elderly, frail cats and dogs that need constant medical care and attention, planning to take them with you may cause more harm than good. There is no guarantee that they will even survive the flight if their health is already a serious cause for concern.

Re-homing Elderly Pets Allows Them to Live Out Their Last Years in Peace

Re-homing elderly pets is often the loving thing to do, as it will allow them to live out their last years in peace, rather than cope with the trauma of being uprooted from their familiar surroundings and sent to live abroad.

Before you decide to re-home your pets, make sure you find suitable new owners who will be in a position to give your pets a loving, stable, quiet home.

Can Your Budget Stretch to Meet Quarantine or PETS Requirements?

An international move is not cheap, and when you factor in the cost of transporting elderly pets, the costs can quickly skyrocket, stretching your budget to the very limit.

Each country's entry requirements for pets differ, so you will need to find out if your pets will be quarantined or if they can travel under the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) with you. Either way, you will be paying out of pocket for vaccinations, medical certificates, microchips and many other travel-related expenses.

Pet owners must decide what would be best all round for them and for their furry friends. While parting with elderly pets can be heartbreaking, sometimes it is the best solution for pets that are not fit for travel. Consider what would be in your pets' best interests. Re-homing elderly pets with a loving new family can allow pets to live out the rest of their lives in peace and comfort. But if you choose to take your pets with you, you will need to factor in the costs of medical treatment and travel.