Hi all! Please don’t immediate downvote because you disagree with what I’m asking, since I’m still looking for legitimate advice. The TL;DR of it is: What is your experience (excluding import requirements) with bringing a SINGLE TINY DOG specifically to Japan or just generally with being a gaijin with a tiny dog looking for housing?
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Disclaimer: Obvious, I know that it is highly discouraged to bring a pet along for the JET program since it is involved, will likely require alternative housing, and JET won’t help you with it. I am already aware of and starting the rabies vaccine and testing requirement process. I also already know he’ll need to stay with someone during orientation. I’m studying Japanese now and traveled around Japan solo before (even in regions with low English proficiency), so I feel confident enough that I can figure out how to make it work at a vet. If I can’t import his current food, I know how to research new local food. I don’t need advice on those things.
Anyway, the reason I’m asking a question despite this is that my dog is a 6 pound Chihuahua, and I pretty much only see people asking about bringing a cat, a bigger dog, or multiple of either, all of which come with additional separate challenges that don’t apply here.
So, can anybody tell me about your experience (especially looking for alternative housing if necessary) with a single small dog? Even non-JET experience looking for affordable housing as a foreigner with a tiny dog would be appreciated or any other potential non-obvious challenges like normal places dogs are forbidden. Thanks!
by aphtoris