For many expats, pets are part of the family — so when planning a relocation to South Africa, the big question is: “Can I take my pet with me?”
The good news is yes, you can! But moving pets from the UK to South Africa requires careful preparation, paperwork, and choosing the right transport method. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about relocating with dogs, cats, and other pets.
👉 Click here to learn more about removals to South Africa from the UK
🐕 Can You Bring Pets to South Africa?
Yes — South Africa allows the import of cats, dogs, and other domestic animals from the UK, as long as they meet veterinary and import requirements. The process can feel complex, but with professional help it’s manageable.
South Africa is a rabies-controlled country, so pets need specific vaccinations and certificates before they can enter.
📑 Paperwork & Requirements
Here’s what your pet will need before flying:
- Microchip – Must be ISO 11784/11785 compliant and readable at customs.
- Rabies Vaccination – Administered at least 30 days before travel, but not older than 12 months.
- Veterinary Health Certificate – Completed by an authorised UK vet.
- Import Permit – Issued by the South African Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development (DALRRD).
- Rabies Antibody Test (if required) – Proof of sufficient antibody levels.
Tip: Start paperwork at least 4–6 months in advance to avoid delays.
🛫 How Pets Travel to South Africa
Most pets are transported by air freight in airline-approved travel crates. They travel in a pressurised, temperature-controlled section of the plane — not in the passenger cabin.
You can:
- Book directly with airlines that offer pet transport
- Use a specialist pet relocation service to handle all logistics (recommended for stress-free moves)
👉 Get expert help with your South Africa move here
🚫 Quarantine Rules in South Africa
Good news: pets from the UK do not usually face quarantine if all paperwork is correct. However, if any documents are missing or vaccinations are incomplete, quarantine may be required at the owner’s expense.
💰 Costs of Moving Pets to South Africa
Pet relocation costs depend on your animal’s size, airline choice, and destination city. As a guide:
- Cats & small dogs: £2,000 – £3,000
- Medium dogs: £3,000 – £4,000
- Large breeds: £4,000 – £5,000+
Additional costs include vet checks, vaccinations, and import permits.
🏡 Settling Pets in South Africa
South Africa can be a wonderful place for pets:
- Cape Town & Durban – Great for outdoor lifestyles, with beaches and pet-friendly cafes.
- Johannesburg & Pretoria – Many gated communities with large gardens, ideal for dogs.
⚠️ Do note: high summer temperatures mean pets need shade and fresh water at all times. Heartworm and tick treatments are also important.
✅ Tips for Stress-Free Pet Relocation
- Get your pet used to a travel crate well in advance
- Use familiar bedding or toys for comfort
- Book early — flights for pets can fill quickly
- Choose a reputable relocation company for peace of mind
✈️ Final Thoughts
Moving to South Africa with pets takes planning — but with the right help, it’s completely achievable. Whether you’re relocating a cat, dog, or other companion, Advance Moves can guide you through the process and connect you with trusted relocation experts.
👉 Start your move to South Africa today with a free removal quote