How to Import a Dog to Okinawa

Pet dogs are often regarded as a fixture of daily life, providing companionship and comfort. For many pet owners, a move overseas must include their cherished pet. Okinawa, the southernmost island of Japan, is home to a large community of foreigners due to the many armed forces bases that are located there. Importing a pet dog to Okinawa is a challenging process that includes multiple veterinary visits, long plane rides and a quarantine period. However, this process is often more than worth the trouble to be reunited with a treasured friend.

Things You'll Need

  • Microchip implant
  • Vaccination records
  • Health certificates
  • Inspection receipt number
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ask a veterinarian to implant an identification microchip in your pet. Japanese law requires that all pet dogs have a microchip implanted for legal ownership.

    • 2

      Immunize your pet for rabies. In order to import a dog to Okinawa, it must have valid records of rabies-neutralizing antibodies from a veterinary office. You may need to perform multiple vaccinations before your pet reaches the necessary antibody counts.

    • 3

      Obtain printed records of your pet's rabies antibody count. You'll need physical records for your pet to be cleared through customs.

    • 4

      Schedule transportation for the pet within a two-year period following the completion of the rabies vaccination. Pets must be brought into the country within this period for the test results to be considered valid.

    • 5

      Send advance notice of your intent to import the animal to the animal control agency associated with your chosen airline. The airline will defer to the rules and regulations of the local Animal Quarantine Station located at each international airport. Most quarantine stations request advance notice of at least 40 days.

    • 6

      Obtain the receipt number for your inspection approval. When your advance notice is received, the issuing agency will send you an inspection confirmation notice. This notice is generally sent through email or by fax. The message will contain an alphanumeric receipt code that will be needed during the import process.

    • 7

      Schedule a physical examination of your pet within two days of your departure date. A secondary checkup is required by Japanese law to ensure the animal is not infected with any communicable diseases.

    • 8

      Request a health certification for your pet from your country's issuing agency. Most veterinary offices in the United States can refer you to the appropriate agency, and some offices can even have these certifications ordered and faxed. Inquire with your vet for more information on proper certification.

    • 9

      Submit your dog for import inspection upon arrival in Japan. Your pet will need to undergo an immediate inspection by veterinarians at the Animal Quarantine Station. After the inspection is complete, the office will instruct you on the necessary quarantine period before the pet can be taken home. The quarantine period can be anywhere from a few days to a month or more depending on the state of the dog. The dog can be kept with a kennel or foster home during the quarantine period. Inquire with the Animal Quarantine Station for a list of available kennels and housing options.