Pets from USA into China

Does anyone have feet on the ground experience getting their dog or cat into China from the USA? When coming here the first time, it seemed next to impossible.


We were told we would have to have our official state veterinarian (from the state capitol) send officially-state-certified vaccination records to the Chinese Embassy for official translation and official stamp, and then sent back to us, which would take two months minimum. We didn't have the time and had to find new homes for our pets, which was rather traumatic. Now we have acquired a pet in China that I'd like to take to USA for the summer and bring back to China in the fall. We have a Chinese veterinarian here who knows how to get our pet through USA customs, but I don't want to risk taking the pet to USA unless I'm sure I can get it back into China this fall. I assume our Chinese veterinarian can issue his records in Chinese and thus translation will not be a problem. Likewise with official certification -- I think I can get the records certified here as well? Advice? It's just too big of an issue to take a risk without being absolutely certain. It was a nightmare to try and find a home for pets once, twice is unthinkable.

There are also airline hassles as well - some airlines have gotten quite picky on carrying pets - check with the different carriers you are considering. And if you stop in Japan for a connection you can expect to have your pet locked up while you are in transit.

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