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Teaching English Abroad With Pets

Posted by Amanda Tradwick - 09:32 on 04 January 2012

Teaching English Abroad with Pets: Some Things to Consider

Teaching in a foreign country can be an exhilarating experience. You get to live in a new place, experience a new culture and perhaps learn a new language. Everything can seem new and exciting. However, for some, the idea of leaving everything behind to experience so much novelty can be a little overwhelming. Some may feel lonely at the idea of not having family members nearby or at leaving behind close friends. The idea of leaving behind beloved pets can also be distressing. Though you may not be able to convince your family and closest friends to pack up and move with you, you can decide whether or not to bring along your furry companions. There are a number of things you should consider before you decide to travel with your pet:

School Policies

Many schools offer teachers living facilities as part of their hiring package, which can also include salary, health benefits and a pension plan. Because school officials oversee these living facilities – some of which may be located on school property – they may not be willing to allow pets on the premises. Even if teachers are required to pay a security deposit or other fee, school officials are ultimately responsible for caring for the property if any damage occurs. If you are offered a position, make sure you ask whether the school has a policy on pets, including any restrictions on the number of pets, size or breed.

Entrance Requirements

Each country has its own regulations governing the acceptance of pets from other countries. At a minimum, you will be required to show proof of your pet’s immunisation and health record. However, each country has a list of specific vaccines that are required, and some may still require that your pet be quarantined for a certain amount of time before being released into the country. Quarantine periods vary, but could last up to several months, depending on the country and on your pet’s health rec

ord. Keep in mind that these requirements will also likely be in place when you are ready to return to your home country. Make sure that your pet is up-to-date on all required vaccinations and that you keep careful records. Also note that some countries will bar specific animals from entrance, such as birds or reptiles.

Airline Arrangements

Rules for flying with your pet will vary by airline, so be sure to check with your specific carrier. At a minimum, you will be required to place your pet in a crate big enough to move around in, including space for bedding, food and water. You will be required to pay a fee for traveling with your pet, which may increase according to the size of your pet. If your pet is small enough – such as a breed of toy dog or a cat – it can likely travel in the cabin with you. If you have a larger pet, it will need to be stowed in cargo beneath the plane. This is important to keep in mind since traveling for long periods in such a space can be stressful for your pet.

Daily Life in Your New Country

Finally, consider what life will be like trying to care for your pet in your new country. Western societies are generally more accepting of pets and have more accommodations available. However, if you are a cat owner, for example, you might have a hard time finding cat food or litter if you are living in China. Or, if you are the owner of a large dog, you might not feel as welcome in Korea, where there are fewer green spaces in the city for walking dogs and where many breeds of dog are eaten as fine cuisine. Acceptance of your pet, supplies and care facilities for your pet, and accommodations can all impact your day-to-day ability to care for your pet. Consider also how you will care for your pet if you must travel, whether you will have time during your day to walk your pet (if you need to), and how you will find veterinary care. Talking to other ex-pats on online forums before you move can give you insights into these issues.

Traveling overseas to teach requires a lot of planning and preparation, and traveling with a pet is no different. If you want to bring your pet with you when you go abroad to teach, be sure to do your research well in advance of your departure, and to make any necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth transition for both of you.

Amanda Tradwick is a grant researcher and writer for CollegeGrants.org. She has a Bachelor's degree from the University of Delaware, and has recently finished research on grants for non traditional students and Ohio college grants.

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