How to transport a dog to Russia?

How to transport a dog to Russia? - briefly

To transport a dog to Russia, you must follow specific regulations set by the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (FSVPS). The dog must have a valid rabies vaccination at least 30 days before arrival but not more than one year prior, and an official veterinary certificate issued within 72 hours of departure.

How to transport a dog to Russia? - in detail

Transporting a dog to Russia involves several steps and adherence to specific regulations to ensure a smooth and safe journey for your pet. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to accomplish this:

1. Microchipping and Vaccination: Before initiating the transport process, make sure your dog is microchipped and has up-to-date vaccinations. The microchip must comply with ISO standards (ISO 11784 or ISO 11785). Your veterinarian can provide this service if your dog isn't already chipped.

2. Rabies Vaccination: Russia requires that dogs are vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entering the country. The vaccine must be inactivated and administered after the microchip has been implanted. Ensure you keep a record of all vaccinations, as this will be necessary for border control.

3. Health Certificate: Obtain a health certificate from your veterinarian, certifying that your dog is fit to travel and free from any infectious diseases. This certificate should not be issued more than 10 days before the date of entry into Russia.

4. Blood Test for Rabies Antibody: At least 30 days after the rabies vaccination, a blood test must be conducted to check the presence of rabies antibodies in your dog's system. This test should be performed by an accredited laboratory and should show a titer of at least 0.5 IU/ml.

5. Travel Crate: Purchase or rent a travel crate that meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards for pet transportation. The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

6. Flight Reservations: Contact the airline you plan to use for transportation and make reservations for your dog. Inform them about the size of the crate and the weight of your dog. Most airlines require advance notice for pet transport.

7. Documentation: Gather all necessary documents, including the health certificate, rabies vaccination record, microchip information, and blood test results. Keep these documents easily accessible during travel.

8. Food and Water: Ensure your dog has access to water throughout the journey. Provide food according to the airline's policy, but make sure it is a light meal to avoid discomfort during flight.

9. Arrival in Russia: Upon arrival at the Russian border, present all documents to customs officials. They will verify that your dog meets the entry requirements and may perform additional checks if necessary.

10. Quarantine: In some cases, depending on the specific region within Russia, there might be a quarantine period required for dogs entering the country. This is typically done to ensure that the dog does not pose any health risks.

By following these steps meticulously, you can ensure a safe and compliant journey for your dog into Russia. Always consult with your veterinarian and relevant authorities to stay updated on any changes in regulations or requirements.