Advance planning will take stress out of pet travel

For many expatriates, Hong Kong is only a temporary home, so there often comes a time when travel arrangements have to be made for pets.

He advises that owners who need to arrange pet travel should plan ahead to reduce any potential stress to themselves or their pets. "We're pretty lucky in this respect in Hong Kong - as long as they've had their annual vaccinations, a microchip and an inoculation for rabies, dogs and cats can travel to most countries without quarantine," Gething says. This includes North America, South America, continental Europe and Britain.

Countries that do have special requirements include Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and Japan. "These countries generally require a blood test up to six months in advance of travel, otherwise a pet will be subjected to a stay in quarantine," he says.

If you are taking a dog or cat along on a trip for less than six months to any country and then returning to Hong Kong, the pet will need to have had a rabies blood test, and the owners will need to apply for a re-entry permit. "There are also special rules for some breeds of dog and cat, especially those with short faces like bulldogs, pugs and Persian cats. They can travel, but they do need special arrangements," Gething says.

Other advance planning recommended by the vet includes purchasing a travel crate - which needs to be certified by the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association - a few weeks prior to the trip. "I'd leave this in the living area with the door open, and possibly put some toys or snacks in there to encourage the pet to go in and become comfortable. Also, putting a worn T-shirt in the crate as a blanket can help them relax."