Traveling to Qatar with your pet
If you intend to travel to Qatar with your pet, you are probably wondering if your pet can accompany you. Find out how to proceed in this article.
The entry of pets in Qatar is strictly controlled by local authorities. So if you are planning to move there with your pet, you are advised to inquire in advance on conditions and regulations regarding pet import. In general, you are required to obtain a veterinary permit from the Animal Resources Department. The Qatari government website and the Qatar embassy or consulate in your home country may give you more details. You should also make sure that your pet travels in the best possible conditions, especially by air.
Good to know:
Only cats and dogs are accepted as pets in Qatar. Pigs are not allowed in the country.
Terms
First of all, your cat or dog should wear an identification electronic microchip before traveling to or on its arrival in Qatar. Dogs are required to wear a collar as, without it, they will be considered as strays. Note that your pet must be at least four months old when traveling.
Important:
Pets traveling from Europe must have a European passport. The electronic microchip must be activated at least one week prior to the scheduled date of departure.
You should also make sure that your cat or dog's vaccinations are up to date, the rabies vaccine in particular, which should have been administered within a year before the scheduled travel date. Thereafter, your dog will have to undergo a serological test so as to determine the vaccine's effectiveness. Thereafter, a rabies vaccination certificate will be issued.
Dogs also have to be vaccinated against hepatitis, parvovirus, distemper, parainfluenza, and leptospirosis, while cats should be vaccinated against calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, and pan-leucopenia at least 30 days before the scheduled travel date.
Warning:
The following dog breeds are prohibited from entering Qatar: Afghan, American Staffordshire Terrier, Boxer, Bulldog, Bull Mastiff, Bull Terrier, Doberman, Danish, Japanese Akita, Carlin, Rottweiler, Shar Pei, and Staffordshire bull terrier.
Import permit
To obtain an import permit, contact the Animal Resources Department's Veterinary Service or your sponsor or employer. You will need the following documents:
- your pet's health certificate issued less than two weeks before the scheduled arrival date in Qatar
- your pet's rabies vaccination certificate
- a complete and updated vaccination book
- a copy of your passport
The permit will be valid for a month.
Good to know:
You can hire a specialized pet import agency such as Qatar Pet Relocators so as to avoid any problem. It will handle all the paperwork and transport requirements on your behalf.
Quarantine
Quarantine does not exist in Qatar. However, pets will be retained in a special centre at the Doha International Airport until they pass through customs.
During the stay
If your pet requires any vaccine during its stay in Qatar, you can take it to the Animal Resources Department. In case these are not available, you will be redirected to a veterinary clinic.
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