Pet Moving Made Easy^®

Pet entry into the Peoples Republic of China can be arduous, complicated, and confusing.

China permits only one pet per traveler. As of May 1, 2019, China allows dogs and cats from the U.S. to enter through any port of arrival in China without a 30-day quarantine when specific conditions are met.

To avoid delays and unexpected return to the U.S., we follow these steps in this order:

• Microchip the pet for identification purposes with a 15-digit ISO chip.
• Your pet will need proof of two rabies vaccinations showing there has been no lapse in protection. The most recent rabies vaccination should be given at least 30 days before but less than one year before entry.
• A rabies antibody test [FAVN-OIE] must be sent to an accredited lab. Plan ahead. The fee for a 72-hour rush rabies antibody test doubled May 1, 2019.
• A USDA-accredited veterinarian must examine the pet for an international pet health certificate. The health certificate is good for 10 days to comply with airline regulations.
• These required vaccinations must be listed on the health certificate: DA2PP/DAPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza) for dogs and FVRCP (feline rhinotracheitis, calcivirus, and panleukopenia) for cats.

There is an option to enter through Hong Kong. If your pet travels through Hong Kong, the rabies antibody test is not required. A transit permit is needed to get to the mainland from Hong Kong.

After you move:

Please register with a local veterinarian to keep your pet's rabies vaccination up to date. Veterinarians typically send reminder notices when vaccinations are due.

Also consider having your U.S. veterinarian run a complete blood count, a differential and chem panel on your dog or cat before moving. Take the report with you to share with your new veterinarian. If another move is in your future, you and your pet will be ready.