If you’re preparing to move with your furry companion, one of the biggest questions you’ll face is: How long does pet relocation take in Kenya? The answer depends on several variables—destination, health requirements, and documentation. In this article, we break down the average timelines, key factors that affect them, and how Prestige Pets Africa ensures your relocation is on schedule.
Typical Timeline for Pet Relocation in Kenya
Here’s a realistic look at how long each phase of the pet relocation process may take:
1. Initial Vet Assessment & Vaccinations: 1–7 Days
- Your pet must be assessed by a licensed vet for overall health.
- If not already vaccinated, the rabies vaccine must be administered at least 30 days before travel.
- Other vaccines may be required depending on destination (DHLPP, FVRCP, etc.).
2. Microchipping & Rabies Titer Test: 1–90 Days
- For countries like the UK, EU, and UAE, a rabies titer test is required after rabies vaccination.
- The blood test must be done at least 30 days post-vaccination, and the pet must wait another 90 days before entry into some countries.
- Microchipping is done before the vaccine, usually same day.
⏱️ This step significantly impacts the timeline for international relocation.
3. Export Permit & Health Certificate: 2–5 Days
- The Export Permit from Kenya’s Directorate of Veterinary Services typically takes 2–3 working days to process.
- A Health Certificate is issued after your vet confirms your pet is fit to travel (usually 1–2 days before departure).
4. Booking Flights & Travel Prep: 5–14 Days
- Pet flights must be coordinated with airline availability, crate size approval, and temperature restrictions.
- IATA-compliant crate training should begin early, even 2–3 weeks prior to travel, to reduce pet stress.
- Prestige Pets Africa helps with all logistics, from securing airline space to vet checks.
Estimated Pet Relocation Timelines by Type of Move
| Relocation Type | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Domestic (within Kenya) | 2–5 days |
| Regional (East Africa) | 5–10 days |
| To South Africa or UAE | 7–21 days |
| To EU, UK, Australia | 30–120 days (due to rabies titer test wait period) |
What Can Delay Pet Relocation?
- Missing or expired vaccinations
- Waiting period for rabies titer test (especially for EU/UK)
- Flight availability for pets (some airlines have pet embargo periods)
- Incomplete documentation
- Public holidays affecting government processing
How Prestige Pets Africa Helps You Save Time
Our relocation experts help reduce delays by:
✅ Starting paperwork early
✅ Tracking vaccination deadlines
✅ Coordinating all logistics and vet visits
✅ Booking the most efficient travel routes
✅ Prepping pets for crate and travel readiness
✅ Offering transparent timelines based on your specific move
Pet relocation from Kenya doesn’t have to be overwhelming or uncertain. While timelines can vary, partnering with an experienced handler ensures you’re always one step ahead.
Need to relocate your pet soon?
Let Prestige Pets Africa guide you through every stage—efficiently and professionally. Call us today on +254 735 828 005 for a free consultation and timeline estimate tailored to your move.