Deciding to get a pet while living abroad is much more complex than a similar decision made “back home.” At first glance, the idea may seem to solve a number of problems – such as loneliness, homesickness and even heart disease – but there are many issues that should be considered. A realistic appraisal must be made regarding the location, the costs in both time and money, and what the health risks might be.
Understand the Health Issues
Finding a well-trained, experienced veterinarian may be difficult. Local or country-specific expat forums may be helpful. In many developing countries, veterinarian practices, facilities and equipment are not commensurate with western standards. Veteran expats tell of being expected to assist in surgeries and hold pets during surgical procedures. After visiting a vet, an expat may be expected to provide follow up medical care – like giving injections, and removing sutures.
Vaccinations deemed normal in western countries may be difficult to get in developing nations, but protecting a pet from diseases like rabies is essential. Ask to see the expiration date on any medicine or vaccine before it is administered.
In the U.S., dogs and cats from organizations such as the Humane Society are usually neutered and vaccinated and often micro-chipped prior to adoption. Expats are on their own when it comes to deciding such issues.
Animals can carry viruses, diseases and parasites that plague humans as well. If expat medical services are rudimentary, and especially if children are in the family, the joy of having a pet may not be worth the increased health risks for the humans.
Expat Pets Require Time, Attention and Money
The expat life is not always conducive to pet ownership. For expats who like to travel, will the pet travel too or can a suitable person/place be found to care for it? Traveling with a pet may be fun if it includes backpacking and wide-open spaces but in a city, taxi drivers and most forms of public transportation may not be so hospitable to furry friends.
Also, pets require a fair amount of maintenance time or they are likely to develop unwanted behaviors such as incessant noise-making, running away, chewing or other destructive behaviors. If an expat's work or school duties leave little time for a pet, finding a new home that is suitable may be difficult.
Food, health maintenance, toys and grooming may consume more of an expat's discretionary income than expected. Especially in developing countries where a pet is considered an extravagance, pet supplies are often pricey.
Location Influences Types of Expat Pets
Having a dog abroad is much easier in places like England and Germany where canine friends are well accepted, than in the south of China where dog meat is a delicacy. Pet shops in some countries sell baby chicks, squirrels, and turtles, but they too are often viewed as food rather than companions. For their own safety and protection, cats, rabbits, and small rodents may best be kept inside. Expats living in exotic places may opt for more unusual pets such as a snake, bird, or monkey. While fish may be kept, they rarely bond with their human keepers.
Regardless of the type of pet, having a relationship with an animal can be gratifying and fun. Each expat must determine if the health risks, monetary costs and inconveniences are worth the joy and health benefits a pet provides.
Mistie Shaw - Writing for nearly half a century, Shaw's interests and education meander from music to the military, and from faith to fun.
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