Extra Crate Space
These breeds require 10% more space for better airflow to keep them comfortable.
South Africa
Pet Relocation South Africa
South Africa warmly embraces pets, offering a pet-friendly environment across its vibrant cities and scenic landscapes. From dog-friendly beaches in Cape Town to pet-welcoming lodges in Johannesburg, your furry friend will fit right in. Urban centers provide excellent pet services like grooming, boarding, and pet stores, while advanced veterinary clinics deliver everything from routine care to specialized treatments.
Our globally certified team is proficient in South Africa pet import requirements, expertly managing health certificates, rabies vaccinations, microchipping, and import permits to ensure a smooth, quarantine-free relocation.
South Africa Pet Import Requirements
01
All pets must be microchipped prior to arrival in South Africa.
02
Dogs entering South Africa require a valid rabies vaccination. The rabies vaccination must be done at least 30 days, but not more than 1 year prior to entry. The vaccine must be given on or after the date of microchip implantation.
03
An Import Permit is required for all pets entering South Africa before the import takes place. An Import Application form needs to be completed by the owner or representative to enable us to apply for the import permit on your behalf. The Import Permit is valid for 6 months and must still be valid upon arrival in South Africa.
04
A health certificate for pets will be attached to the original import permit and must be completed by your private veterinarian in the exporting country within 10 days prior to departure.<br>
05
There are two phases involved in completing the Health Certificate for dogs; all dogs must be tested or treated within 30 days of export, for the following (unless the country can be certified free);<br>
Only dogs are to be tested for import into South Africa. The following tests are required:
- Brucella canis
- Babesia Gibsoni
- Dirofilaria immitis
- Leishmaniosis.
06
Quarantine of 7 – 14 days for dogs only.
07
Arrivals are for Manifested Cargo ONLY.
01
Cat must be microchipped prior to arrival in South Africa.
02
Cats entering South Africa require a valid rabies vaccination. The rabies vaccination must be done at least 30 days, but not more than 1 year prior to entry. The vaccine must be given on or after the date of microchip implantation.
03
An Import Permit is required for all pets entering South Africa before the import takes place. An Import Application form needs to be completed by the owner or representative to enable us to apply for the import permit on your behalf. The Import Permit is valid for 6 months and must still be valid upon arrival in South Africa.
04
A health certificate for pets will be attached to the original import permit and must be completed by your private veterinarian in the exporting country within 10 days prior to departure.
05
No blood tests or quarantine required for cats.
06
Arrivals are for Manifested Cargo ONLY.
Important Notes
We know all pet's are special - but for the extra-special snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds there are some specific requirements that can make navigating your adventure a little more challenging. Luckily we specialise in just these types of situations!
Temperature Control
These breeds can only fly under safe temperature conditions, often requiring cooler travel times or temperature-controlled aircraft areas.
Vet Check
We are the only IPATA Certified Veterinary Hospital in the region that can perform the BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome) test.
Airline Selection
We can help you to choose carriers that accommodate these breeds, ensuring a safe journey.
IATA-Compliant Crates
- Size: Spacious enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
- Material: Fiberglass, metal, rigid plastics, welded wire mesh, solid wood or plywood (meeting IPPC standards) (There may be special requirements for certain breeds).
- Ventilation: Openings on all 4 sides to provide plenty of airflow.
- Rigid plastic containers must be securely bolted together with metal nutes and bolts.
- Spacer bars to prevent other freight from blocking ventilation.
- Labeling: Clearly marked with “Live Animal” and your contact details.
FAQs
Is quarantine mandatory for pets entering South Africa?
How long before arrival should I obtain an import permit for South Africa?
Are specific vaccinations required for pets entering South Africa?
What is the age requirement for pets entering South Africa?
Are import permits required for all pets entering South Africa?
Quarantine is generally not required if all import conditions are met. However, pets may be quarantined if documentation or health status is incomplete.
Import permits should be applied for at least 4 weeks prior to arrival to allow for processing.
Rabies vaccination is mandatory. Other vaccinations such as distemper and parvovirus are recommended.
Pets should be at least 12 weeks old and fully vaccinated according to South African regulations.
An import permit from DAFF is required for all pets.
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