Nick - You have to be able to show you followed the timeline as outlined on the Dept of Agriculture website. Once that is in order, anything additional doesn't really matter. Would the 2 extra pet visits consist of doing things that must be completed for the move? 

Hi Nick here is the link from the Dept of Agriculture.  
https://www.agriculture.gov.ie/pets/bringingyourpetcatdogorferretintoireland/#Your  

That should take you to the part of the page for cats and dogs coming from the US to Ireland.
Essentially you need your animal microchipped and they can get the rabies vaccine the same day, but it must be AFTER the microchip is inserted and the vet has verified they can read the animal's microchip.  Twenty one days after this you can bring your animal to Ireland.  I'd space the timing longer to be on the safe side -2 to 3 months. 

Remember you need an authorised rep to meet you at Dublin Airport and agree the paperwork is in order.  Otherwise the animal will be taken to the quarantine facility in Meath somewhere.  

The thing you will need to be sure if is whether your animal has a vaccine or a booster and that it is well in date.  It's worth checking with your vet what the rabies shot is (primary or booster) and how long it's valid for.  Then make sure they are filling out the paperwork in accordance with Dept of Agriculture guidelines.  

We did a 2 year stint in Switzerland a few years ago (US to Switz).  The paperwork was a PITA but once we got there customs just smiled and waved us through.  I suspect there will be more formality in Ireland at customs, but make sure you have printed out the Dept guidelines, and have all your paperwork in order - it should be fine.  

We are bringing 4 cats this summer... not looking forwards to it.  Best of luck, Pauline 

Has anyone flown into Ireland with a small dog (e.g., toy pom or yorkie) on board/in-cabin with them?  I've done it within the U.S. (Fla to NY) but would eventually like to take fur-baby to Ireland with me but would be nervous putting her in cargo because of her nerves (the thunder effect times 100 I would imagine). 

@susan_l unless the rules have changed in the last couple of years, your pet will have to fly in cargo. Check with each airline that you're looking into, but I think you still don't have the main cabin option. 

I have sent my small dogs (Shih Tzu's) this way a few times. Never been a problem, but I'm sure they didn't like the journey. 

Thanks Liam.  I suppose with sufficient doggy tranquilizer she should be fine. 

Susan, the general advice for animals travelling by plane is not to give them any meds.  Ask your vet.  

Susan, Delta into Dublin should let you take a small animal (check their website for restrictions and call them also) in an appropriate pet carrier (airline sets the guidance on appropriate) in something that fits under the seat.  

We are in NJ right now and moving end Summer to Ireland.... 4 cats... 1 will come in cabin and 3 in cargo.  I'm in the process of getting all the details and can share what I find.  

We did 2 years in Switzerland and returned 5 years ago.  In each instance we flew Swiss airlines and we could bring our cat (only had one then), in cabin, under the seat.  We bought an extra seat and that way it was easier for my husband to reach down and talk to him... I managed the kids in a different row.  

Try Delta.  I know it's not possible with Aer Lingus, and I think United only does it domestically in the US.  I'm also looking at other airlines. 
Best, Pauline 

Really Pauline? That's great if that's the case. At least there'd be 1 option, albeit only for smaller animals. I didn't think it was allowed though... Looking forward to hearing more from you as you explore.

I've been researching the "cat in cabin" thing pretty hard. There are some airlines that will, in theory, allow cats in the cabin on transatlantic flights to Europe. The problem is that Ireland and the UK have their own regulations, which require pets to be below in the baggage hold. So while you could fly to most EU countries with your pet in the cabin, it won't work in Susan's case (or mine, darn it).