How to Move Your Pet to Dubai: A Comprehensive Guide
- by WONDERMOM
- Dec. 23, 2024
Moving your pet to Dubai can be a daunting experience, especially when navigating international travel regulations and ensuring your furry friend’s comfort. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can make the process smooth and stress-free for both you and your pet. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure a successful move to Dubai.
Key Considerations for Moving Your Pet to Dubai
General Guidelines
Age and Health: Ensure your pet is at least eight weeks old before traveling. Schedule a vet check-up to confirm that vaccinations, deworming, and flea/tick prevention are current. Obtain a health certificate from your vet within ten days of travel.
Microchipping: Your pet must be microchipped for identification. This is crucial if your pet gets lost.
Sedation: Generally, sedation is not recommended for pets traveling by air due to potential side effects, especially at high altitudes.
Pet Relocation Services: Consider using professional pet relocation services or Dubai pet travel agents to facilitate the move. It’s also helpful to have the contact details of a reliable vet in Dubai for post-arrival care.
Breed Restrictions: Be aware of the UAE’s breed restrictions. Certain breeds, such as Doberman Pinschers, Pit Bulls, and Mastiffs, are prohibited from entering the UAE.
Essential Documents and Vaccinations
When moving your pet to Dubai, you will need the following:
Owner’s Passport Copy: Provide a copy of your passport.
Travel Permit: Apply to the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) for a travel permit for your pet.
Vaccination Records: Provide original vaccination cards or a valid health certificate from a vet in the exporting country. Required vaccines include:
- Dogs: Rabies, canine distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, leptospirosis.
- Cats: Rabies, Feline panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis.
Deworming and Parasite Prevention: Ensure deworming with praziquantel and anti-external parasite prevention with Fipronil or permethrin.
Animal Passport: Include your pet’s date of birth, microchip information, and vaccination records.
Extra Copies: Keep additional copies of all documents in case of baggage delays or loss.
Carrier Details: Write your name, pet’s name, and contact details on the crate in permanent ink. Include detailed feeding instructions if the flight is over 12 hours.
Airline Rules and Pet Carriers
Pet Carriers: All pets must travel in airline-approved pet carriers in cargo. Ensure the crate is large enough for your pet to stand, sit, and move around comfortably. Soft-shell carriers may not offer adequate protection.
Crate Specifications: For pets up to 53 kg, the crate should be at least 59 inches (150 cm). For pets between 24-32 kg, use a crate of at least 59-118 inches (150-300 cm).
Service Dogs: Some airlines may allow service dogs in the cabin under specific conditions. Check with the airline for their policies.
Booking and Preparation: Book your pet’s travel well in advance and confirm the booking 24-48 hours before departure. It’s best to schedule direct flights and avoid extreme weather conditions.
Preparing Your Pet for the Journey
Crate Training: Familiarize your pet with the carrier well before travel. Use treats and toys to make the crate a positive space.
Feeding and Hydration: Feed your pet a light meal before the flight and ensure it gets a potty break. Train your pet to drink from a hamster-type water bottle if necessary.
Additional Tips: Avoid traveling during extreme weather. Schedule flights during cooler parts of the day if possible. Attach a water bowl inside the crate, freeze the water before departure, and line the crate with absorbent material.
Post-Arrival: Collect your pet as soon as possible upon arrival and ensure they are comfortable and hydrated.
FAQs
What age is required for pets to travel to Dubai?
Pets should be at least eight weeks old for air travel.
Can snub-nosed dogs travel with Etihad?
Most airlines, including Etihad, allow snub-nosed dogs to travel in winter or under specific temperature conditions.
Is quarantine required for dogs in Dubai?
Dogs do not need to be quarantined if they have the required vaccinations and are from a rabies-free or controlled country.
How much does it cost to transport a dog to Dubai?
Fees range between $500 and $800, depending on the dog's size.
Can my dog adapt to Dubai’s climate?
Consult your vet to determine if your dog’s breed can handle Dubai’s hot environment.
Powered By: WonderMom