How Much Does It Cost To Fly A Dog From South Africa to Nigeria?

Have you ever wondered about the cost of flying a dog internationally from South Africa to Nigeria?

Have you also ever thought of what to consider when preparing a dog’s flight budget from South Africa to Nigeria? The information in this blog post should give you a rough idea of what to expect. Generally, international pet travel is more expensive than human travel. The high cost of international pet travel is as a result of the expenses of the travel crate costs, airline freight fees, transportation and customs charges. Also, some costs are determined by your dog size. Small dogs will cost less compared to large dogs. The costs may also fluctuate according to the current foreign exchange rates.

Flights fare charges for pets flying from South Africa to Nigeria on Ethiopian Airlines start with a minimum of $365. However, this fee is excluding fuel surcharge, data transfer fees (Customs), Live-animal (AVI) check fees, Air Way Bill (AWB) fees and South African Customs documentation fees.

Airline costs

Airline charges for dogs flying from South Africa to Nigeria are calculated according to how much space your dog occupies in the aircraft’s cargo section. Dogs require optimal care; therefore, there are no discounts on airline charges. It is wise to choose an airline that has pet-friendly policies. Also, consider choosing a direct flight for your dog’s convenience. It is good to make flight bookings for several months or days before consulting the veterinarian for vaccinations and health checks. Some airlines have policies that allow dog guides to board in the cabin for free. Although, they will require specific documentation to approve the dog guide’s travel. 

But other flights have policies that restrict dogs to travel in cargo, for example, flights for live animals from South Africa to Nigeria. Flights fare charges for pets flying from South Africa to Nigeria on Ethiopian Airlines start with a minimum charge of $365. However, this fee is excluding fuel surcharge, data transfer fees (Customs), Live-animal (AVI) check fees, Air Way Bill (AWB) fees and South African Customs documentation fees.

Travel crates

It would be best if you bought a dog crate or travel kennel before your dog board the plane. In South Africa, an IATA accredited dog travel crate price range between R500 – R2,400 depending on your dog’s size. When buying a travel crate, also buy a water and food bowl as a precautionary measure—typical water bowls designed for air travelling cost between R10 to R50.

Government Customs Charges

Your dog passes through regulatory authorities from South Africa and even in Nigeria – your pet’s destination country. Your dog’s travel documents and permits will be thoroughly checked.  The customs charges and requirements vary depending on your choice of the destination country. A Customs Clearing Agent must clear your live animal shipment with the Nigerian Customs and the Nigerian Quarantine Service in order for your dog to enter into Nigeria. This means that your dog’s paperwork must pass through brokers, and its taxes and tariffs are paid for. Most airlines have this type of information at hand if you require it.

Pet transportation at Destination

Your dog’s journey does not end at the airport in Nigeria. No! If you do not have your own vehicle for transporting your dog, you will need to hire a taxi that accommodate pets. You need to know the cost and prepare for them to avoid any inconvenience. Companies like Uber and Bolt transport dogs; however, it is better to contact the driver privately to check if he/she will accept to transport your dog.

In Conclusion

In the long run, it takes a lot of time, effort and financial resources when planning to fly your dog or cat from South Africa to Nigeria. Apart from sourcing and making financial provision for travel crate, airline fees and government Customs and quarantine charges, it also involves a lot of careful planning. Instead, we can help you handle your dog’s international travel process. Pet Lovers Nigeria has the expertise, experience, and knowledge to transport your pets from South Africa to Nigeria professionally. We will ensure that your dog flies in the acceptable IATA travel container for canines and make sure you meet all airline regulations. Its friendly consultants will book airline cargo or cabin space that suit your budget. We will also choose the most convenient route for your dog.

Additionally, Pet Lovers Nigeria will also take care of the South African and Nigerian Customs paperwork, including the Nigerian Quarantine Service airport protocols and its associated charges, all on your behalf so that you have one less thing to worry about. Please send us an email today for a non-obligatory quote to fly your FURiend.