Moving with an animal requires preparation in advance, not on departure day. Serbia is fond of pets, the veterinary network is well developed and shelters are full — so this is a good place to adopt a dog or cat.

Transport

  • Check the requirements for bringing your animal in well ahead and complete everything before you leave: microchip, vaccinations, veterinary passport and, where required, a health certificate.
  • You need a suitable carrier: its size and the rules depend on the mode of transport.
  • On arrival, find a vet first and transfer the vaccination history into a local pet record.

Vets

Veterinary clinics exist in every city, and the larger ones work around the clock. Look for them through recommendations in Russian-speaking chats and reviews, ask whether the vet speaks Russian or English, and whether emergency night care is available. Sterilisation, microchipping, vaccinations and dentistry are available everywhere; prices vary by city, so ask for an estimate before any procedure.

Shelters and adoption

Shelters are overcrowded, and you can adopt through them or through animal rescue groups. The usual process: choose the animal, spend time with it, fill in a questionnaire, pay for sterilisation and microchipping if required, sign a contract. Remember that an adopted animal is yours for life — if you are unsure you can manage, it is better to volunteer and help the shelter without taking an animal home.

Pet sitting and holidays

When you travel, you can leave your pet in a pet hotel, with a trusted sitter or with friends. Pet hotels require a vaccination certificate; look for a sitter through recommendations and in good time, and before leaving write instructions: what to feed, which medicines, which vet to call. Older animals and those who dislike change cope better with sitting at home.

Small things that help

  • A tag with your phone number — in the first weeks a pet can get lost in an unfamiliar neighbourhood.
  • Dog registration and walking rules vary by city: check with the local service.
  • People in buildings and parks are relaxed about animals, but cleaning up after your dog is compulsory.