Moving to Okinawa... with pets.
February 27, 2010 6:14 PM Subscribe
There is a really good possibility that in October I'll be moving to Okinawa for 3 years. I know you aren't the official word, but I have 3 dogs and possibly a cat that I want to bring with me.
I've only been able to find basic information on importing animals -- but no rules on how many can be brought in, what housing is like (we may be living on base housing, so that might not be an issue) - is Okinawa even an animal-friendly city? Any light you can shed would be so helpful. And yes, I'm Googling madly even as I type this.
Also? 3 years in Okinawa? Can I even do this? ack.
I've only been able to find basic information on importing animals -- but no rules on how many can be brought in, what housing is like (we may be living on base housing, so that might not be an issue) - is Okinawa even an animal-friendly city? Any light you can shed would be so helpful. And yes, I'm Googling madly even as I type this.
Also? 3 years in Okinawa? Can I even do this? ack.
I have a couple of friends who live in Okinawa, and they transported their cats there, no problem. (I think they were even able to use military flights.)
Looks like gursky beat me to it, but I'd be happy to ask my pals if you want another opinion.
I will add that they love it there and don't want to come back -- so be prepared to enjoy your stay!
posted by vickyverky at 6:58 PM on February 27, 2010
Looks like gursky beat me to it, but I'd be happy to ask my pals if you want another opinion.
I will add that they love it there and don't want to come back -- so be prepared to enjoy your stay!
posted by vickyverky at 6:58 PM on February 27, 2010
The Japanese MAFF website has FAQs that pretty comprehensively answer questions about importing animals into Japan.
The District Military Command (Japan) reiterates the MAFF import regulations. That is to say, officially there seems to be no way to import animals into Japan using American military transport.
Generally speaking, Japan wants to limit rabies in that country, and so for that reason imported pets are often quarantined.
I can't speak for living on base, but Japan is not particularly animal friendly, if you are a renter (the country could be said to not be particularly friendly to foreign renters, either). Apartments are often small, and squeezing three dogs in may be a bit of a chore.
In fact, nailing down the housing issue should be a deal breaker. If you are not offered base housing, you definitely need help making arrangements to find an apartment. It is expensive and complicated (for a non-Japanese speaker) to set up.
posted by KokuRyu at 9:40 PM on February 27, 2010
The District Military Command (Japan) reiterates the MAFF import regulations. That is to say, officially there seems to be no way to import animals into Japan using American military transport.
Generally speaking, Japan wants to limit rabies in that country, and so for that reason imported pets are often quarantined.
I can't speak for living on base, but Japan is not particularly animal friendly, if you are a renter (the country could be said to not be particularly friendly to foreign renters, either). Apartments are often small, and squeezing three dogs in may be a bit of a chore.
In fact, nailing down the housing issue should be a deal breaker. If you are not offered base housing, you definitely need help making arrangements to find an apartment. It is expensive and complicated (for a non-Japanese speaker) to set up.
posted by KokuRyu at 9:40 PM on February 27, 2010
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posted by gursky at 6:30 PM on February 27, 2010