Microchip Requirements

Before shipping your pet to Japan, all dogs and cats must be identified with an ISO-compliant microchip. If your pet has a different type of microchip, consult with your Pet Travel Specialist to confirm its eligibility. Importantly, the microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccinations are administered.

Rabies Vaccination Requirements

Japan requires dogs and cats to be vaccinated against rabies at least twice after the microchip is implanted. The key details include:

• Your pet must be at least 91 days old at the time of the first rabies vaccination.
• The first rabies shot can be administered on the same day as the microchip implant.
• A second rabies vaccination must be given at least 30 days after the first and before the first vaccination expires.

FAVN Evaluation (Rabies Antibody Test)

After rabies vaccinations, your pet will need to undergo a FAVN (Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization) test to measure rabies antibody levels. Key points to note:

• The test must be conducted at one of two approved U.S. laboratories: Kansas State University Rabies Laboratory or DOD Veterinary Food Analysis and Diagnostic Laboratory.
• The results must show an antibody level of 0.5 IU/ml or higher.
• There is a 180-day waiting period from the date of the FAVN test until the pet can enter Japan.
• The FAVN test results are valid for two years from the sample date.

Import Permit

An import permit must be completed before shipping pets to Japan. This process must be handled by an IPATA agent in the destination country

Health Certificate

A Health Certificate must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and signed. The certificate must also be endorsed by the USDA within ten days of your pet’s departure to Japan.

Parasite Treatments

Japan also recommends parasite treatments before your pet’s departure, which should be administered no more than four days before boarding the flight. These treatments are critical for ensuring your pet’s health and preventing any issues upon arrival.

External Parasites: Your pet should be treated with medicines effective against mites and fleas, and a clinical inspection must confirm that the animal is free from these parasites.

Internal Parasites: Your pet should be given medication effective against nematodes and tapeworms.

Recommended Immunizations

Japan recommends additional immunizations to protect your pet’s health. These should be administered at least 30 days before your pet's arrival in Japan, provided the pet is 91 days old or older.

For Dogs:

• Distemper
• Contagious hepatitis (Adenovirus type II is acceptable)
• Parvovirus infectious disease trivalent vaccine (parainfluenza, leptospirosis, coronavirus)

For Cats:

• Feline viral rhinotracheitis
• Feline calicivirus
• Feline panleukopenia trivalent vaccine

Ensuring a Smooth Pet Relocation to Japan: Key Takeaways

By following these essential pet travel requirements, you can help ensure a seamless and stress-free move for your pet to Japan. Proper planning and adherence to Japan’s strict regulations will minimize delays and potential complications. If you need further assistance or have questions, our pet relocation experts are here to help guide you through the process. Safe travels!