General Overview

Moving your pet to Australia is a detailed process involving strict rules to protect Australia’s unique ecosystem. Be prepared for a lot of planning and documentation, as well as meeting Australia’s biosecurity and health requirements.


Key Steps for Pet Export

1. Breed Restrictions

  • Dogs: Breeds like Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, American Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, and wolf-dog hybrids are prohibited.
  • Cats: Breeds like Savannah, Safari, Chausie, and Serval cats are not allowed. Bengals must be at least 5 generations removed from wild cat species.

2. Microchip and Vaccinations

  • Ensure your pet has a working microchip that matches all documents.
  • Rabies Vaccination: Required even if it’s not part of standard vaccinations in your home country.

3. Rabies Titre Test

  • Wait 30 days after rabies vaccination to do the test.
  • Blood must be sent to an approved lab (results valid for 12 months).
  • Export can only happen 180 days after the blood draw date if the titre level is acceptable.

4. Parasite Treatments

  • External Parasites (Fleas & Ticks):
    • Dogs: Start at least 30 days before export.
    • Cats: Start at least 21 days before export.
    • Treatments must be continuous until export.
  • Internal Parasites (Worms):
    • Two treatments spaced 14 days apart, with the final one given within 5 days of export.

5. Additional Tests for Dogs

  • Tests for diseases like Leishmania, Leptospirosis, and Brucella Canis must be done within 45 days of travel.

Important Documents

  • Rabies Certificate and Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test (RNATT) Declaration (signed by an OV66 vet).
  • Owners must apply for an import permit at least 42 days before travel.

Quarantine

  • All pets must undergo 30 days of quarantine upon arrival in Melbourne. Owners must pre-book quarantine space and pay in advance.
  • For reduce quarantine time you will need to have 2 ID checks done by OV66 vets.

Travel Crates

Pets must travel in International Air Transport Association (IATA)-approved crates. These are often custom-made for safety and comfort.


Tips for Owners

  1. Start early to meet deadlines for vaccinations, tests, and permits.
  2. Be aware that Melbourne is the only quarantine facility in Australia, even if relocating to another city.
  3. Work closely with your vet to ensure all treatments and documents are accurate.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation for both you and your pet!