6 months, Rs 15 lakh: Indian couple's dog relocation from Hyderabad to Australia goes viral

The accompanying caption describes the impact of the separation on the couple.

A video detailing an Indian couple’s decision to spend close to Rs 15 lakh to relocate their pet dog from Hyderabad to Australia has gained widespread attention on social media. The clip was shared on Instagram by an account called Kahaani of Tails and documented the logistical, financial and emotional challenges involved in the process.

According to the video, the couple had initially been preparing to move to Australia and were looking forward to the transition until they became aware of the country’s animal import regulations. Text displayed on the video addresses common reactions to their decision, stating: “Why spend 15 lakhs on a dog? Get a new one.”

The overlay then explains the regulatory hurdle they encountered. “We got an opportunity to move from India to Australia. We were all excited until. Australia does not allow direct import of dogs from India. Dogs from India must stay 6 months in a rabies free country. That’s 14 to 16 lakh just to bring him from India to Australia, and 6 months in another country.”

Because India is not classified as a rabies-free country under Australian biosecurity rules, dogs cannot be flown directly from India. Instead, animals are required to spend a minimum of six months in an approved third country before being eligible to enter Australia.

Despite suggestions from others that they consider adopting a different pet after relocating, the couple chose to proceed with the relocation of their dog, Sky. Another line in the video reads: “Money is replaceable, but love for him isn’t.”

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A post shared by Kahaanioftails (@kahaanioftails)

The clip further shows that Sky was flown from India to Dubai, where he stayed in a boarding facility while the six-month waiting period was completed.

The accompanying caption describes the impact of the separation on the couple. It reads: “We were preparing to move from Hyderabad to Australia when we first learned about the rules. Dogs can’t be taken directly from India to Australia. They have to stay in a rabies free country for six months.”

They explained that they spent the first month in Dubai so Sky could adjust before leaving him there to complete the remaining quarantine period. The caption describes this separation as “one of the hardest things we’ve ever done.”

The couple said they relied on daily phone calls, video updates and regular communication with the boarding facility during the months apart. Reflecting on the wait, the caption adds: “Six months felt like forever. And then, finally, it was time. Sky came to us in Australia. All the waiting, the stress, the fear, and the sacrifices suddenly felt worth it.”

The post concludes with the statement: “Sky isn’t just a dog. He is our child, and we would do it all over again for him.”

The video prompted a strong response online. One user commented, “He is one of the luckiest to have you guys. People often abandon their companions in such cases I am so happy and proud that you didn't.” Another wrote, “If you can love an animal this deeply, you are already good parents.” A third said, “People who say get another dog have never truly bonded with one.”

Other reactions included comments such as, “Oh my god, had tears watching this."

Disclaimer: This report is based on user-generated content shared on social media. Moneycontrol.com has not independently verified the claims made in the video.