Weekly Feature: Pets Down Under!

This week’s focus is on Australia- namely the rules and requirements for getting your furry family member into Australia and some helpful information for once you get there!

In order for you to be able to bring your pets with you to Australia, they first have to come from an approved country. So, if coming from somewhere that is not considered an “approved country”, you would first need to take your pets to an approved country and wait there for six months until the import requirements have been met. Also, no matter where you are originating from, there is a mandatory 30 day quarantine time upon arrival in Australia. Here is a full list of the import rules and requirements.

Things get much easier once you and your best friend are actually in Australia and settled. There are tons of great pet-friendly places to go and pet services. It is easy to get all types of pet care products and professional services in Australia, such as pet services that offer dog-walking and pet-sitting so that your pets always have plenty of exercise and recreation if you lead a rather busy lifestyle.

Further, one of the premier pet-friendly destinations in Australia is the Gold Coast. With miles of stunning surf beaches, lush tropical green rainforests, world-class golfing greens and the thrill of world-famous theme parks to keep the adrenalin pumping; where else could you be but the Gold Coast, Queensland? Best of all, the Gold Coast is perfect to bring your best friend along on too- whether you are both seeking just a little relaxation and luxurious pampering or a stroll through the canopies of tropical rainforests.

Also worth checking out are the amazing beaches. Swim at any number of safe, sandy bay beaches or slam it up with the waves of the endless surfing beaches all along the coastline. On, in, under or by the waters, there's something for everyone on beaches and friendly beachside communities.
Moreover, if you’re looking for a natural high head for the Hinterland and Mount Tambourine for a lovely picnic in one of the fabulous national parks filled with walking trails and waterfalls. You can even pitch a tent if you like!

However, as any pet owner can tell you, getting away on holiday can be a bit of a dilemma. You can relax though because there’s lots of pet friendly accommodation available for pet lovers and their friends to choose from that suits all tastes and budgets.

Here’s a list of helpful resources for planning your time in the land down under:

Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service: Bringing Cats and Dogs and other pets to Australia

Living in Australia, a website about emigrating to Australia and living In Australia.

Life in Australia, a section of the website of the Australian Department of Immigration and Cultural Affairs, providing useful information on working and living in Australia.

Live in Victoria, a government website providing information about immigrating to Australia and living in Victoria.

Working in Australia.com, provides a lot of information for those interested in working and living in Australia.

Yanks Down-Under/Mates Up-Over, provides support for Australians living in North America and expatriate North Americans living in Australia, with discussion forums, chat, stories, etc.