Monday, December 22, 2008

Greek Life

With a dry, sunny Mediterranean climate and surrounded by clear blue waters, the coastal resorts and scenery of Greece make an ideal relocation destination. While the fantastic food, drink, and friendly local people add to the attraction, Greece has an incredible heritage that covers all areas of refined culture, political ideas, science, mathematics, and philosophy.
Some great examples are the Arcadian ruins, historic monasteries, and castles of Cyprus where legend has it that the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, rose from the sea. Or visit the Messinian Peninsular where you can discover the archaeological heritage of the area.
If you are interested in outdoor recreation, spend some time along the Greek coastline. There is so much to do at many of the resorts along the entire Greek coastline you won’t find time to get bored! There’s windsurfing, sailing, and bike riding to mention just a few activities. Also enjoy a day trip to the southern tip of Greece by car and don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch for everyone, including your family pooch!
Greek hospitality will welcome your loveable furry friend, but do check first, perhaps by enjoying some strong black coffee for yourself and a water for your thirsty four-legged companion after a leisurely stroll around one of the coastal towns.

Greece Import Rules and Requirements:

Following these steps in the order provided will ensure that your pet arrives Greece safely and avoids any, and all, potential quarantine time.
  1. Microchip: Each Pet shall be identified by means of a microchip. No other form of identification is acceptable. The microchip used should comply with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO standard 11785- otherwise the pet will need to be sent with it’s own scanner attached to the top of the crate.
  2. All animals need to have Full Vaccinations: Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvo, Leptospirosis, (DHLPP) and Rabies within the last 12 months or a minimum of 4 weeks before arrival.
    Cats: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (FVRCP), and Rabies within the last 12 months or a minimum of 4 weeks before arrival.
  3. EU Vet Health Certificate (Form EC#: 998): This is the standard Health Certificate to be filled out by your accredited Veterinarian. This certificate is valid for 4 months prior to departure date so do not get this issued too early.
  4. USDA Endorsement: The below referenced forms:
    • Microchip Implantation Record
    • Rabies Certificate
    • EU Vet Health Certificate
    • Must be sent to your local USDA for their stamp of approval.
  5. Greek Consular Endorsement (must be obtained following USDA endorsement): The below referenced forms:
    EU Vet Health Certificate
  6. International Health Certificate: Your vet should have these in stock. It’s a good idea to call ahead and ask. This is an international health certificate that needs to be completed by your vet within 10 days of departure. Depending on the logistics of your particular pet relocation and the specific health certificate being used (APHIS Form 7001) an additional USDA Endorsement maybe required on this health certificate.
  7. All original documentation must travel with the pets.
Planning ahead while keeping these considerations in mind should make your upcoming move to Greece go as smoothly and stress-free as possible!

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