Pet Move of the Month: Cody and Ryder Move to Singapore

Singapore is a really growing market for expats from all over the world. However, arranging that move for your pets can be more than a little daunting. That's what Ryder and Cody's mom found out. So, they called PetRelocation! They were such a pleasure to work with and their mom took the time to let us know all about their adventure! Here's what she had to say: 

What brought about your move to Singapore?

Our family relocated from Seattle to Singapore for my husband’s job.  After previously living in China and relocating back to the US, we were excited to have another expatriate adventure. When we moved to Beijing, it was just my husband and me with our 10-month-old son. We thought that was pretty challenging at the time. Fast forward 12 years and our move from Seattle to Singapore was much more challenging!  We were now moving with two children, two dogs, and a horse!

 

How did you hear about PetRelocation? 

Funny story!  We were referred to PetRelocation by a woman who was also in the process of moving her dog and her horse to Singapore. It was fortunate that we connected. I had previously researched other pet relocation companies and had contacted a few, but I was not getting the answers or the service that I needed. Once I called PetRelocation I knew I was on the right track. Working with Kelcey was straightforward and she walked me through every step of the process. She was always willing to talk me through the details and specifics of moving my dogs.

How are your pets settling in? How did they handle the move?

Both dogs settled in well and quickly relaxed into their new environment. They are handling the Singapore heat and love their early morning walks.  Cody loves hunting geckos in the yard! Ryder prefers to stay in the air conditioning and sticks to his tennis balls. 

How did they handle the actual relocation and move day?

The move itself went well, even with a flight delay. Kelcey updated us with information and photos at each step of their journey.  Once in Singapore, we were able to visit them daily at the Sembawang Quarantine Facility. Visiting the dogs was helpful for them and us. We could see the dogs relax and settle into the daily routine and they loved their visit time with us.  We would play with them in the outdoor pens. The quarantine time went by surprisingly quick and in 10 days they were with us in our home. I should also mention that the Sembawang facility staff were very kind and friendly to our family and our pets.   

Did anything about the travel process really surprise you?  

Our biggest surprise was the timing and detail required to prepare the dogs for the trip. You can’t start too early. We started in March for a move in August and it was still challenging to get all the vaccinations and appointments in place. Singapore’s requirements are very detailed and strict in terms of the timing, type of vaccinations, the placement of signatures, as well as the descriptions of your pets.  I can’t stress how important it is to understand these details to ensure your pet's relocation to Singapore goes smoothly. 

Our other big surprise was that our dog's flight from Seattle was canceled due to a mechanical problem with the airplane. Kelcey called me right away and we quickly came up with an alternate plan. She immediately rebooked the flights, transportation, quarantine reservations...everything!  

What did you find to be the most valuable part of having Kelcey & PetRelocation assist with your move?

Kelcey was an asset every step of the way.  She helped us source a custom crate for Ryder that met the proper airline standards for a dog his size. She alerted me to every requirement, milestone, and checked to make sure I was prepared for each appointment. She seamlessly coordinated with the Singapore agent that received and handled our dogs and had a great working relationship with them.   She also worked very closely with my veterinarian in Seattle and was even on the phone with us during the final vet appointment to walk us through the final paperwork page by page. I could not have navigated these details without her!

What advice would you give other pet parents who are thinking about moving with their pets?

Start the process as early as possible regardless of where you are moving. If you are moving to Singapore, you will need to work with someone who understands the country’s very detailed requirements. I can’t stress enough how important is it to have all the paperwork submitted exactly right.  Also, don’t underestimate the number of details required to move a family overseas. It can and will be overwhelming at times. It was a huge relief to know that PetRelocation was managing this process for my dogs.

Have you found any dog-friendly spots in your new home town that your pets really enjoy?  

Singapore is very pet-friendly. There are a lot of fun dog parks and beaches. One of my dog's favorite spots is Tanjung Beach in Sentosa. There are always a ton of dogs there to play with. Ryder loves to jump in the ocean and cool off! 

It sounds like Cody and Ryder are really enjoying their new home in Singapore. We are so grateful to be a part of their journey. They are very good boys! If you know you'll be relocating your family to Singapore, start planning now! Arrange your move with us today!