Umhlanga Coastline / pet immigration Kwazulu Natal North Coast / Pet Immigration South Africa

Umhlanga Coastline

Bringing in your Pets

Laws relating to pet importation are far less onerous than for most westernised countries and a large number of countries are exempt from quarantine.

This means that as long as you have sorted out all the paperwork and your pet has had the required vaccinations, the chances are that you will not be separated for much longer than the flight over and the time it takes for the veterinary clearance.

To find out if your country is exempt from quarantine and to get more information on the processes, please visit the official website.

Once you have done this, your next step would be to get hold of your local airlines to find out if they offer an animal transportation service and what the costs are.

Finally, remember to co-ordinate the timing so that your pet arrives when you do. With pets being transported as cargo, they could end up being held overnight (or for an entire weekend) before their actual flight, causing additional stress for them and you.

Check with the airline exactly what your pet's flight schedule will be and, wherever possible try to have them on the same flight as you. Also remember to check on the airline policy regarding food and water during transit as well as the use of sedatives.

Even if you are normally opposed to the use of drugs, this may in fact be a kinder option for your pet.

The good news is that animals who are loved and in good condition will generally bounce back very quickly from the stress of a long-haul relocation and all that goes with it.