Bringing Dogs and Cats to South Africa: Comprehensive Guidelines for Pet Import and Transport

To ensure your pets' safe and smooth arrival in South Africa, it's essential to adhere to the following guidelines:

• Microchip: Each pet must be identified by a microchip that complies with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO Standard 11785. South Africa currently accepts AVID 9 and AVID 10 in addition to ISO. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine is administered.

• Rabies Vaccine: Pets should have a valid rabies vaccination no more than one year old but older than 30 days.

• Veterinary Health Certificate: The pet needs to be examined by an official veterinarian within 10 days of export and, must be found to be free from internal and external parasites contagious and infectious diseases, and must overall be deemed fit to travel. The South African Veterinary Health Certificate is required to enter the country.

• US Health Certificate (APHIS Form 7001): This document is required to board the airplane and is valid for 10 days upon completion.

• Blood Tests (for Dogs): Dogs must be certified free from certain diseases, including Brucella canis, Trypanosoma evansi, Babesia gibsoni, Dirofilaria immitis, and Leishmania, through blood tests. If the exporting country is certified free from one or more of these diseases, then the dogs do not need blood tests for those diseases.

• Import Permit: An Import Permit is required for all pets. Your PetRelocation Specialist will secure this on your behalf.

• Heartworm Treatment: Pets must receive heartworm treatment before departure at the final vet appointment. Owners must bring a six-month supply of heartworm prevention medication when they move.

• No Quarantine: No quarantine is required for pets arriving from the United States.

Making the Move Easier: Preparing Your Pets for Travel

• To help your pets have a stress-free journey, it's important to prepare them well in advance. Crate training is a valuable practice, as it helps your pets get accustomed to the travel crate and reduces anxiety during transit.

Trust PetRelocation for Your Pet's Move to South Africa

• Moving to a new country with your pets can be both exciting and challenging. At PetRelocation, we're dedicated to providing you with personalized and comprehensive support. With our expertise, you can focus on the adventure ahead while we handle the logistics of your pet's move.