Pets in Japan: bringing them in, renting with them, and the rules

Bringing a dog or cat into Japan

Japan is rabies-free and strict about keeping it that way. From most countries the process takes at least seven months, so start early. In order:

1. 1Microchip (ISO 11784/11785) implanted before the first rabies shot.
2. 2Two or more rabies vaccinations, at the intervals the rules set.
3. 3Rabies antibody blood test at an approved laboratory, with a high enough result.
4. 4Wait 180 days from the blood sample date before arrival in Japan. Arrive sooner and your pet is held in quarantine for the rest of that time.
5. 5Notify the animal quarantine service at least 40 days before arrival at your arrival airport.
6. 6Export certificate from your country's government vet authority, with all the above recorded.

Some regions (designated rabies-free areas) have a shorter process. Check the Animal Quarantine Service's page for your country before booking anything.

Renting with a pet

• Most rentals don't allow pets. Filter for ペット可 (pets allowed) or ペット相談 (pets negotiable).
• Expect an extra deposit (often one more month) and stricter cleaning charges when you leave.
• Cats are often harder to place than small dogs, because of scratching damage.
• Get the permission in writing in the lease's special conditions (特約), including the type and number of pets. How to read a Japanese lease.

If you have a dog: registration and the yearly shot

• Register your dog with your city within 30 days of getting it or moving in (畜犬登録). You get a tag to attach to the collar.
• Rabies vaccination every year, usually in April–June, at a vet or the city's group vaccination day. You get a second tag (注射済票).
• Moving within Japan? Tell the new city.

Vets and costs

• Vet bills aren't covered by any public insurance; private pet insurance is common.
• Search for English-speaking vets in your area, or have a Japanese speaker call ahead for the first visit.
• Pet hotels and sitters book up around Golden Week, Obon (mid-August) and New Year.