Exporting your pet from Kenya involves more than booking a flight—it requires strict compliance with veterinary and international travel regulations. Understanding the necessary documents can prevent costly delays or denied travel. In this guide, we explain what documents are required to export a pet from Kenya and how Prestige Pets Africa ensures everything is properly handled for a smooth journey.
Essential Documents for Exporting a Pet from Kenya
Here are the key documents required when relocating a pet from Kenya to any international destination:
1. Pet Export Permit
Issued by the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS), this is the official government authorization to move your pet out of Kenya.
- Application must include: pet details, destination country, and a vet certificate.
- Processing time: 2–5 working days.
2. Veterinary Health Certificate
A government-approved veterinarian must examine your pet and issue a health certificate declaring the pet fit to travel.
- Validity: Usually valid for 7–10 days before travel.
- Includes: overall health status, no signs of contagious disease, and verification of vaccinations.
3. Up-to-date Vaccination Records
Your pet must be vaccinated against major diseases, particularly rabies.
- Rabies vaccination: Must be done at least 30 days prior to travel but not more than 12 months before.
- Other recommended vaccines (dogs): DHLPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus).
- For cats: FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia).
4. Microchip Certificate
Many countries (especially in the EU) require pets to be microchipped with an ISO-compliant chip for identification.
- The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine.
- The certificate includes the chip number and implantation date.
5. Rabies Titer Test (for certain countries)
If you’re exporting your pet to the EU, UK, UAE, or some parts of Asia, a rabies antibody blood test is mandatory.
- Timing: Done at least 30 days after rabies vaccination, then wait another 3 months before entry (for EU).
- Testing must be done in an OIE-approved lab.
6. Import Permit from Destination Country
Depending on the country, you may also need an import permit before your pet is allowed entry.
- Check with the respective embassy or animal health authority.
- Prestige Pets Africa helps you obtain this where necessary.
7. Airline-Specific Documentation
Each airline may require additional paperwork such as:
- Acclimation certificate
- Fit-to-fly declaration
- IATA crate certification
Document Checklist Summary
| Document | Mandatory | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Export Permit | ✅ | Issued by Kenya’s DVS |
| Veterinary Health Certificate | ✅ | From licensed vet |
| Vaccination Records | ✅ | Rabies & others |
| Microchip Certificate | ✅ (for most countries) | Must match export details |
| Rabies Titer Test | ✅ (for EU, UK, etc.) | OIE-approved lab only |
| Import Permit (destination) | ✅/❌ | Depends on country |
| Airline Travel Docs | ✅/❌ | Depends on airline |
Why Work with Prestige Pets Africa?
Navigating export regulations can be stressful—but we handle it all for you.
✅ We manage vet visits and vaccination tracking
✅ We help secure all government permits and certificates
✅ We ensure compliance with destination country regulations
✅ We liaise with airlines and customs for documentation clearance
✅ We update you every step of the way
The documentation required to export your pet from Kenya can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Prestige Pets Africa takes care of the paperwork, health checks, and compliance—so you can focus on the journey ahead.
Need help exporting your pet from Kenya?
Contact Prestige Pets Africa today on +254 735 828 005 and get a tailored consultation. Let’s move your pet safely, legally, and stress-free.