In this episode we share the full process of how we moved to Portugal with our pets. We discuss everything: from what we needed to arrange in order to move with our pets to actually doing it. We share how we experienced moving abroad with pets, the things that went wrong and the things that worked out. Also we discuss if we would have done anything differently if we were to do it again: were there any things we wished we knew sooner? And did having pets held us back in making the decision to move abroad? Lastly we have some advice for anyone who wants to move abroad with pets.
Enjoy listening and don’t forget to rate the podcast and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform, like Spotify – it will help more hearts find our little corner of the world.
With love, April Betts & Anna Jirina.
About From Lisbon With Love
Welcome to From Lisbon With Love! A podcast about real stories of love, laughter, and life in Lisbon — from women who have left it all behind. We share real stories about moving to Lisbon, starting over and figuring life out along the way. We talk love, dating, friendships, breakups, healing, growing, all of it. Basically, the stuff we usually talk about over coffee ☕️ or vinho 🍷. If you’re thinking about moving to Lisbon, already here or just love honest conversations with heart: you’re in the right place! Learn more about our story here.
Moving abroad with pets
Unfortunately there not one go to way to move abroad with pets – as we also discuss in this episode. When moving abroad with pets, there’s multiple factors that come into play. The requirements to move abroad with pets can differ a lot from country to country. Also your country of origin might influence what you need to arrange to be able to move your pet. If you want to move abroad with a dog or a cat, you’ll most likely need to get them chipped and vaccinated.
In the episode April shares all the different steps you need to take to move abroad with a dog and all the things you need to take into account. Moving abroad with pets takes a lot of preparation, so you definitely need to sort out everything on time – preferably months in advance.
When traveling abroad with pets, it’s important to be flexible and to reduce stress as much as possible. It’s already a very nerve-racking experience for your pet, so you don’t want to make them feel even more uncomfortable. Especially dogs can sense it when you’re stressed, since they are attuned to human emotions.
Moving pets overseas
Moving pets overseas can be extra challenging, since different continents have different rules and restrictions. It’s important to do enough research, so you don’t face any unexpected problems on the way. Luckily there’s a lot of Facebook-groups that can help you to find the right information. In the episode April shares the Facebook-group where she found a full guide on how to move your pet overseas.
Also there’s multiple companies that offer professional pret transport. They help you manage flight logistics, necessary documentation and country-specific requirements, so you don’t have to juggle it all yourself.
How to get your pet used to their new place
Just like humans, pets will need some time to adapt to their new home and environment. They need to get adjusted to new scents, new noises and new routines. That’s why it’s important to take enough things with you that make them feel comfortable, like their favorite toys or blankets. Also encouraging your pet to explore the new house helps a lot, since they have to find a new favorite place in their new home. Maintaining the routine of your pet as much as possible will also help them to get adjusted even faster.
If you want to know how we found our apartment in Lisbon, listen to this episode!
