Singapore Pet Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions and Expert Advice

singapore pet travel spotlight part one

Relocating your pet to Singapore can be daunting, especially when managing the details of an international move. But don't worry—proper preparation and expert guidance can ensure a seamless transition for you and your furry friend.

In this first installment of our Singapore Pet Travel Spotlight, we answer your most pressing questions about importing pets to Singapore and provide valuable insights from our pet relocation experts. Let's embark on this journey together, and as always, feel free to contact us for personalized assistance with your pet's relocation.

What are the requirements for moving pets to Singapore?

As a rabies-free country, Singapore enforces stringent pet import regulations to maintain its health standards. Here's what you need to know:

Key Requirements:

  1. Microchip Implantation:

    • Must be ISO-compliant.
    • Implant before rabies vaccination and the Rabies FAVN Titer Test.

  2. Rabies Vaccinations:

    • Rabies Vaccination #1:
      • It must be recombinant or inactivated/killed.
      • Administered by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.
      • Given at least 31 days before the Rabies FAVN Titer Test.
      • Pet must be at least 4 months old at the time of export.
    • Rabies Vaccination #2:
      • Required only if Rabies Vaccination #1 expires before arrival in Singapore.
      • Administered after the Rabies FAVN Titer Test.
      • Must be at least 30 days old at the time of export.
      • Original ink-signed rabies certificates must accompany your pet.

  3. Rabies FAVN Titer Test:

    • Blood sample drawn by a USDA-accredited vet at least 29 days after Rabies Vaccination #1.
    • The Titer Test must be at least 90 days old at the time of export.
    • Owner's passport name must be on the FAVN paperwork.
    • Test results must accompany your pet.

  4. General Vaccinations (Dogs: DHPP | Cats: FVRCP):

    • Required by the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS).
    • Must be administered at least 14 days before departure.
    • Original ink-signed vaccination certificates must accompany your pet.

  5. Internal and External Parasite Treatment:

    • Must be performed within 7 days of departure.
    • Use products from the Australian list of acceptable parasite treatment products.
    • Treatment dates should be listed on the health certificate; otherwise, separate certificates are required.

Will My Pet Require Quarantine in Singapore?

Good news! Quarantine is no longer required for pets from Schedule II countries (including the USA and Canada) if:

  • Your pet arrives within 5 days of the owner's arrival in Singapore (proof via e-ticket required).
  • You've owned your pet for at least 6 months before import (documented).

If these conditions aren't met, a 10-day quarantine is required, either at home (for eligible pets) or at a designated facility.

At-Home Quarantine Requirements:

  • Eligibility: Only pets from the USA and Canada are eligible.
  • Requirements:
    • Complete all necessary veterinary procedures, including the Rabies FAVN Titer Test.
    • Provide a full residential address in Singapore (ensure it allows pets).
    • Submit a video of the room designated for at-home quarantine.
    • Complete a form provided by your relocation agent.
  • Important: Pets must remain indoors during quarantine and are not allowed outside for any reason, including bathroom breaks.

 

How Can I Ensure My Pet's Safe Flight?

Crate Training:

  • Start Early: Purchase an airline-approved travel crate as soon as possible.
  • Acclimate Your Pet: Help your pet get used to spending time in the crate.
  • Resources: Check out our pet crate training tips for guidance.

Choose a Pet-Friendly Airline:

  • Singapore Airlines:
    • Offers direct flights from San Francisco (SFO) and Los Angeles (LAX) to Singapore (SIN).
  • KLM and Lufthansa:
    • Provide alternate routes with specific handling for snub-nosed breeds.
    • Note: Snub-nosed breeds like English Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs have travel restrictions.

Veterinary Consultation:

  • Discuss any health or behavioral concerns with your vet.
  • Ensure all vaccinations and treatments comply with Singapore's requirements.

Can My Pet Travel in the Cabin with Me?

While Singapore allows some small pets to travel in the cabin, international regulations and customs procedures often require pets to travel as manifest cargo. This method is safe and provides for efficient customs clearance.

  • Customs Clearance: Pets traveling as cargo can be cleared more smoothly upon arrival.
  • Expert Guidance: Your Pet Relocation Consultant can advise on the best travel method for your pet.

 

When Should I Start Planning My Pet's Relocation?

Due to the comprehensive requirements, starting planning at least 4-6 months is recommended.

Why So Early?

  • Rabies FAVN Titer Test: Must be at least 90 days old at the time of export.
  • Quarantine Reservations: Limited availability during peak seasons.
  • Import Permits: Valid for only 30 days; timing is crucial.
  • Declaration of Facts (DOF): Required before applying for import/export permits

 

What Is the Cost of Pet Relocation to Singapore?

Costs vary based on several factors:

  • Pet Size and Breed: Larger pets or breeds with restrictions may incur higher costs.
  • Origin City: Affects flight availability and pricing.
  • Services Needed:
    • Pet flight booking
    • Airline-approved travel crate
    • Veterinary visits and vaccinations
    • Boarding (if necessary)
    • Airport Transportation
    • Quarantine fees (if applicable)

Get a personalized quote by contacting our team.

 

Additional Tips and Considerations

Declaration of Facts (DOF):

  • Purpose: To declare that your pet is a personal pet and not for commercial purposes.
  • Requirement: Must be submitted and approved before applying for import/export permits.
  • GST Implications: If the DOF is rejected, you must pay GST calculated as (AWB freight + value of pet) x 8%.

Import Permit and Dog License:

  • Import Permit:
    • Valid for 30 days from the issue date.
    • Apply approximately one month before your planned departure date.
  • Dog License:
    • Required for all dog imports.
    • Owners must complete a 30-minute online course for pet owners before applying.
    • We no longer offer dog licensing through our partners due to this requirement.

Arrival Timing:

  • Quarantine Station Hours:
    • Pets must arrive 4 hours before closing.
    • Closing Times:
      • Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 5 p.m. (arrive by 1 p.m.)
      • Tuesday: 2 p.m. (arrive by 10 a.m.)
  • Late Arrivals:
    • Pets arriving after closing hours will be held overnight at the Changi Animal & Plant Quarantine Station.

Housing Requirements:

  • Pet-Friendly Housing: Confirm your Singapore residence allows pets.
  • HDB Housing: There are strict rules on pet ownership; only certain dog breeds are permitted.
  • At-Home Quarantine: Ensure your housing is suitable and approved for at-home quarantine if applicable.

Documentation to Prepare:

  • Personal Documents:
    • Passport photo page
    • Copy of e-ticket (if available)
    • Copy of visa (if applicable)
  • Pet Information:
    • Photo of your pet(s)
    • Original vaccination and health certificates
  • Residence Details:
    • Full address of residence in Singapore
    • Indicate whether it's a personal or temporary residence

 

Ready to Start Your Pet's Journey to Singapore?

Contact us today for personalized assistance. Our team of experts is here to guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth and stress-free relocation for you and your pet.

Stay Tuned for Part Two: Singapore Pet Quarantine Rules & Advice

Continue following our Singapore Pet Travel Spotlight Series for more in-depth information on pet relocation to Singapore.

Author:

PetRelocation Team

Topic:

Air Travel, Quarantine, How-To Guides

Pet:

Cats, Dogs

Country:

Singapore
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