Planning to move with your furry friend? Whether it’s across the country or around the globe, transporting pets involves more than just booking a flight. Each country and airline has specific rules to ensure animal safety and legal compliance. If these rules aren’t followed, your pet could face delays, detainment, or even be denied travel.
In this article, Prestige Pets Africa outlines the essential rules and regulations every pet owner must follow when transporting pets within Kenya or abroad. From medical requirements to airline policies and legal documents, here’s what you need to know to make your pet’s journey smooth and stress-free.
General Pet Transport Rules (Global & Kenyan Context)
- Health Certificate:
Must be issued by a licensed veterinarian within 7–10 days of travel. - Vaccination Records:
Rabies vaccine is mandatory. Others include DHPP for dogs, FVRCP for cats. - Microchipping:
Often required for international travel — must comply with ISO 11784/11785. - Pet Export/Import Permit:
Issued by KEPHIS/DVS in Kenya; import permits are required by most destination countries. - IATA-Approved Travel Crate:
Crate must meet size, ventilation, and labeling requirements under IATA Live Animal Regulations.
Kenya-Specific Pet Transport Rules
- Local Transport Permits:
Required for transporting pets inter-county or for commercial purposes. - Documentation at Checkpoints:
Pet owners may be asked to show a vaccination card and vet clearance at police or border checks. - Rabies Control Compliance:
Pets must have updated rabies certificates as required under Kenyan veterinary law.
Airline & Airport Rules
- Booking as Cargo or Excess Baggage:
Kenya Airways and most international airlines allow pet travel but with limitations on breed, size, and flight routes. - Breed Restrictions:
Some airlines restrict snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds due to breathing risks. - Airport Arrival Times:
Pets must arrive at the airport 3–4 hours before flight departure for vet inspection and crate checks.
Quarantine & Country-Specific Regulations
- Quarantine Requirements:
Countries like Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore often require quarantine upon arrival. - Titer Tests:
Some countries require rabies antibody titer tests before granting entry (e.g., EU, Japan). - Travel Bans:
Certain breeds or exotic pets may be banned in specific countries.
What Happens If Rules Are Ignored?
- Denied boarding or entry at destination
- Pet placed in unexpected quarantine
- Hefty fines or legal implications
- Stress and health risks to your pet
- Airline or airport refusal to handle non-compliant pets
Understanding pet transport rules can be overwhelming — and a small mistake might cost you time, money, and your pet’s well-being.
That’s where Prestige Pets Africa steps in.
We handle the paperwork, vet prep, permits, airline bookings, and even door-to-door delivery — so you don’t have to stress about a single thing.
Call us now at +254 735 828 005
Let’s make your pet’s next journey legal, safe, and comfortable — just the way they deserve.