If you're planning to move to Australia, the move can be more complicated when you're planning on bringing the family dog. Australia has a unique island ecosystem that can be easily disrupted by the introduction of new diseases, bacteria, or other organisms. The Australian government takes its responsibility seriously by requiring specific tests, quarantine times, and permits before pets from other countries are allowed to make this island country their home. Here is what you need to know about moving your dog to Australia.

You'll need to prepare well in advance.

When you've decided to make the move, you'll need to make sure that you have enough time to make the preparations necessary. If you move is unexpected and must happen quickly, you will not be able to bring your pet with you because:

• all pets entering the country must be microchipped at least 210 days before arriving. Make sure your chip can be read by Australian chip readers. If you are not sure of your chip will be readable, bring your own chip reader just to be safe. 
• your pet will need to get rabies vaccinations. If your dog was vaccinated for rabies before being microchipped, he will need to be vaccinated again. You will need a certificate showing the vaccine is valid.
• blood tests are required for entry. Your pet will need a blood titer test 180 days before you enter to show that the rabies vaccine is working. If the titer test does show satisfactory levels of antibodies, your pet may not be permitted to enter.

In the month before you move, you will also need to get more tests from your pet to make sure your dog is free of parasites and other common diseases. Be sure that all tests are done by an approved veterinarian—ones that are permitted by the government to prepare pets for emigration to a new country and can provide an international certificate of health. 

After you enter, there will be a minimum quarantine period of 10 days, but it can be longer. Quarantine officials will pick up your dog at the airport and thoroughly examine him. The quarantine period can be extended if there is a problem. For example, if a flea or tick is found on your dog, more blood tests will be needed and your dog will be in quarantine for several more days because fleas and ticks carry diseases. If your pet cannot be alone or will not be able to handle this time period, it is best to look for a new home for your pet before you move. 

You need to pay for more than just the plane ticket. 

Bringing a pet with you when you emigrate will mean more than just travel costs. Your dog's permit will cost at least $480 AUD, and more fees can be charged if you have additional pets or if there is more work attached to your application, such as if your dog needs a longer time in quarantine or if your application must be submitted because of errors. The cost for the vaccines and tests can also be steep, especially if your dog needs additional medication to treat parasites when the tests come back positive.

If your international movers don't work with pets, you also might want to look into paying for a pet relocation service, which can help you get through the paperwork and make sure that your application and needed medical clearances are complete. Your dog must be transported in a container approved for import into Australia. Once you get to Australia, you'll also have the costs of registering your pet, purchasing new food and getting a new vet.

For more information on this proccess, visit resources like http://www.bekins.com.