As expats in Nigeria, bringing and living with a pet in Nigeria may seem challenging, especially if you are not sure of the different procedures and protocols it requires in the country. In this article, I have listed a few things that you should consider when you are thinking of importing and living with a pet in Nigeria. Here is some information to guide you along the way.
Pet Vaccinations, Microchip and Tests
“A visit to the doctor is an extension of pet love”
In Nigeria, pet owners are required to put microchips on their pets. Your cat or dog must also be vaccinated for rabies between 30 days and 12 months before entering Nigeria. Dogs need other vaccines such as the Canine Distemper, Canine Hepatitis, Canine Adenovirus and Canine Parainfluenza. Cats on the other hand should get the Feline Distemper, Feline Herpes and Calicivirus vaccines.
Pets entering into Nigeria from other countries are also required to take a rabies titer test no sooner than 30 days after their rabies vaccine. All of your pets’ vaccines should be recorded on a health certificate which is signed by a qualified veterinarian.
Pet Passport and Permits
“Getting a pet is one thing, preparing to stay with it is another”
Expats in Nigeria should note that in order to bring and live with your pet in Nigeria, you are required to apply for an import permit. To apply for your pet import permit, you should fill a form from the Department of Veterinary and Pest Control Services (DVPCS), which should be accompanied by a veterinary certificate.
All your paperwork goes through a verification process. If the application is approved, you can proceed to apply for the permit at NAQS using your approval letter. Keep in mind that you will be required to pay an application fee.
Parasite Treatment
“Prevention is better cure “
Pets carry a lot of different parasites and these may pose health risks to people in Nigeria. Regularly deworming your pet before coming to Nigeria helps to prevent and control parasitic infections.
Fleas and ticks are common parasites found on our pets and cause many different diseases which make our pets, other animals and even people, sick. So, it’s important to treat parasites before you begin your journey to Nigeria.
Travelling Arrangements
“A good travel plan is prepared well in advance”
All pets should travel to Nigeria by air. Airlines will inform you of the costs and regulations of importing your pet into Nigeria. Copies of the pet’s health certificate, permit and passport will be required by the airline, which may include digital copies of your pet’s travel passport, which clearly shows the face and breed of your pet.
Preparing a checklist helps a great deal when planning to travel with your pet to Nigeria. It ensures that you have everything you need. Travelling with all the required documentation helps to make your journey a smooth one. For specific travel tips for your pets from South Africa to Nigeria, expats in Nigeria may find this article useful.
If this blog post has been helpful in assisting you to bring your beloved pet into Nigeria, please share your experience and photos with us below.
Abiola
Ohhh i just love the dogs