Taking Your Dog to South Africa
There are important regulations, paperwork requirements and timelines that need to be managed properly when moving a dog from the UK to South Africa.
Transfur Animals has been organising international dog transport for over 20 years and knows exactly what’s required when flying a dog to South Africa. We can manage the entire process on your behalf, like import paperwork and travel logistics, allowing you to focus on your own relocation plans.
If you have already started moving your dog to South Africa and need an experienced team to take over, we can step in and assist at any stage you’re at.
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What Do I Need to Do Before Flying My Dog to South Africa?
1. Dog microchipping with an ISO-compliant microchip
2. A valid rabies vaccination administered after microchipping
3. A South African import permit before travel
4. An export health certificate issued by an Official Veterinarian before departure
5. Any additional veterinary checks or treatments required for entry
6. An airline-approved flight route into South Africa
7. Customs clearance prior to your dog’s arrival
The timing of South Africa’s pet moving requirements, such as vaccinations, paperwork and veterinary checks, needs to align so you can avoid any delays or problems when your dog lands in South Africa. Our experienced UK dog shipping team manages the entire process on your behalf, from the import permit application through to arrival clearance.
Please note: Dogs travelling to South Africa must fly as manifested cargo and cannot travel in the cabin or as excess baggage. Most pets arrive via Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban, depending on your final destination.
1. Dog microchipping with an ISO-compliant microchip
2. A valid rabies vaccination administered after microchipping
3. A South African import permit before travel
4. An export health certificate issued by an Official Veterinarian before departure
5. Any additional veterinary checks or treatments required for entry
6. An airline-approved flight route into South Africa
7. Customs clearance prior to your dog’s arrival
The timing of South Africa’s pet moving requirements, such as vaccinations, paperwork and veterinary checks, needs to align so you can avoid any delays or problems when your dog lands in South Africa. Our experienced UK dog shipping team manages the entire process on your behalf, from the import permit application through to arrival clearance.
Please note: Dogs travelling to South Africa must fly as manifested cargo and cannot travel in the cabin or as excess baggage. Most pets arrive via Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban, depending on your final destination.
Taking Dog to South Africa – What We Do
| What We Handle ✓ | What That Means For You ➡ |
|---|---|
| Import permit application | We complete and submit the paperwork on your behalf |
| Vaccination and documentation checks | We ensure your dog’s paperwork meets South African entry requirements |
| Export health certificate | We coordinate the Official Veterinarian appointment and paperwork |
| Flight booking | Approved airlines and suitable routes are selected around your dog’s welfare |
| IATA-compliant travel container | Supplied or checked by us to ensure airline compliance |
| Customs clearance arrangements | Organised in advance to help avoid delays on arrival |
| UK home to airport collection | Available if required |
| Onward travel within South Africa | We can arrange domestic travel to your final destination |
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Experience & Reputation
+10,000 pets transfered worldwide
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Travel Crate & Pet Safety
Ensure pet's comfort & well-being
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Global Compliance
Expert handling of all paperwork
Why Choose Transfur Animals?
20+ years organising international dog relocations
Experienced in moving dogs to South Africa from the UK
Import permits, paperwork and flight arrangements handled for you
All-inclusive quotes with no hidden costs
No call centres – dedicated support from a single point of contact throughout your move
Flight tracking access throughout your dog’s journey
Ready to Get Your Dog’s Move to South Africa Underway?
The paperwork for South Africa can take longer than most owners expect, with some steps having fixed waiting periods you can’t rush. The earlier you start, the more breathing room you have if a test result or permit takes longer than planned.
Call us on 01403 212 900 or request a quote online. One of our pet shipping team will walk you through each stage of flying your dog from the UK to South Africa, from the first blood test to touchdown in Johannesburg or Cape Town.