Tika travels the globe...

It's a dogs world...

I am not sure which is more stressful, moving your family and household contents or moving your pet across the globe. I would have to go with pet. Our beloved springer spaniel, Tika, was born in Victoria, Australia. We were living in Sydney at the time and were in search of the perfect puppy for our family.

We had recently jumped off the 'expat express', bought a house and were staying put for a while..or so we thought.  A few years on, we moved to New Zealand...a relatively easy move for us all. 'Like for like' is what I would say, although, I know many Aussies and Kiwis who would beg to differ. Let's just say we were in the same hemisphere.

A few years on...England, oh dear, now that would be a change...and it was. The photos on this post were taken, one snowy cold morning, on the day she was dropped off at our home in Surrey. Her New Zealand dog tags were dangling from her collar as she looked upon the vast whiteness around her. Let's just say, there were lots of giggles from our family as she discovered snow for the first time. 

And here we go again..to Vietnam. This one is tricky...it is not a dog friendly nation...or so I hear. On top of which, rabies is common. I have been in deep consultation with the pet moving company to sort this all out. My biggest worry, is her age. She is nine years old. I know she can make the journey to Vietnam...but what about the next spot? There will be strict quarantine laws leaving Vietnam to our next home. Vietnam is a 'Non-Approved Country' in the eyes of many countries. Quarantine will be at least three months. At 12-13 years of age? Will she make it? If you are a dog owner, you can see my concern.

Even thought she drives me mad sometimes, 

I can not imagine life without her. I will have faith.

If you are moving your pet around the world, speak to your Veterinarian first. They can find out about vaccinations shots etc... I suggest you get as early a start as possible. We had to start Tika on vaccination program, nine months before leaving New Zealand. Every country is different. At the end

of the day, you are putting the welfare of your dog into the pet transport company. You want to be sure

it is one you are comfortable with. We can only imagine what our dogs must feel like, you will want to

ensure it is the safest and most comfortable transition possible.

Here we go...off to get another stamp in Tika's pet passport. 

I have been meaning to write a story about Tika for our family.

'Tika Travels the Globe'. I must put that on the 'To Do' list when

we settle in Vietnam. :)

images~me