Pet Transport and Pet Boarding Specialists
Are you planning to move to the USA from South Africa with your pet? Keringa-Petwings can help you navigate all the necessary regulations and make the entire process hassle-free
Transporting pets to the USA without professional advice is challenging due to the complex regulations and documentation required, including microchipping, rabies vaccinations, veterinary health certificates, CDC compliance requirements and customs procedures. Additionally, navigating airline policies and ensuring your pet’s comfort and safety during travel can be overwhelming without expert guidance. Whether you are relocating a dog or a cat from South Africa to the USA, Keringa-Petwings can assist with the veterinary, documentation and travel requirements necessary for a safe and compliant relocation.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about transporting dogs and cats from South Africa to the USA, including vaccination requirements, blood tests, CDC regulations, documentation and quarantine requirements.
Dogs and cats are the primary pets that can be imported into the USA. Other animals may have specific restrictions or requirements.
Dogs entering the USA must have a microchip, up-to-date rabies vaccinations, a Rabies Neutralising Antibodies Titration Test (RNATT), the appropriate veterinary health certification, and compliance with applicable CDC requirements. Dogs can only enter the USA through approved entry airports, and a CDC reservation may be required depending on the import requirements.
Cats entering the USA do not require an RNATT blood test, but must comply with applicable veterinary and airline requirements. Additional regulations may apply if travelling via the European Union.
Dogs travelling from South Africa to the USA require a Rabies Neutralising Antibodies Titration Test (RNATT). The test must be performed after a valid rabies vaccination and according to the applicable import requirements.
Cats travelling directly to the USA do not require an RNATT blood test. However, additional requirements may apply if the travel route includes transit through the European Union.
Documentation requirements vary according to the species, travel route and current regulations. Generally, required documents may include a veterinary health certificate, proof of rabies vaccination, microchip information, applicable blood test results for dogs, and any CDC documentation or reservations that may be required.
Generally, pets do not need to be quarantined upon arrival in the USA, provided all health and documentation requirements are met.
The entire process, from initial veterinary visits to travel completion, can take several months. It is recommended to start planning well in advance of your intended travel date.
The USA does not have a nationwide ban on specific breeds of cats or dogs, but some states and cities may have state-legislated restrictions, particularly on certain dog breeds.
Keringa-Petwings can manage all aspects of the pet transport process, including obtaining necessary documentation, arranging veterinary visits, handling customs clearance, and ensuring your pet’s safe travel.
