Hi There
I moved my 2 dogs from SA to Budapest in November 2006 and then to Switzerland in 2007. My dogs are a boxer cross (9) and a Weimeraner(5). I used a Johannesburg company to do the relocation - Waterfalls Kennels - they were really good and know exactly what to do. My SA vet did the necessary vaccinations and did all the blood tests etc. for titre testing that is required. There is no quarantine required in Europe so the process is relatively easy. I bought the necessary cages etc. from Waterfall Kennels (I used the plastic ones) and took delivery of them early so both my dogs started sleeping in them instead of their normal beds. Most airlines will not accept dogs that are heavily drugged - they must be able to stand up properly - I gave my dogs Nutricalm when they travelled - in total they were given 8 each by the time they boarded the plane. You can book your dogs onto the same plane as you and collect them at the airport. It is easier in Switzerland as the Swiss authorities at the airport speak good English. The dogs are checked by state vets at both ends of the journey. My dogs had to go on two flights and I was really worried but they both travelled really well and were fine when we collected them - apart from a lot of excitement:-) Unfortunately I lost my boxer to cancer a year ago. I live in Walchwil (Canton Zug) and my Weimeraner and I go on loads of great walks almost always off leash. I call her back if there are people or cyclists so she doesn't bother them. I find the Swiss people very dog friendly and as long as you are a responsible dog owner I think there is a great life for dogs here.

At the time that I moved my dogs I think it cost +-R17,000 and they were flown with Lufthansa.

Hope this helps.

Maxine