Will My Pet Be Quarantined?

Why are Pets Quarantined When Entering Some Foreign Countries?

Pet quarantine refers to the practice of isolating animals upon their entry into a foreign country for a specified period. Generally, quarantine is served at government-run facilities in the destination country.

The primary purpose of pet quarantine is to safeguard public and animal health by preventing the introduction and spread of diseases, such as rabies and other contagious illnesses, from animals entering from another country.

Being warm-blooded mammals, cats and dogs are particularly susceptible to carrying rabies which is a primary reason why some countries impose quarantine. Additionally, imposing quarantine can give officials the opportunity to test and/or vaccinate for other contagious diseases such as distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, influenza, and parvovirus in canines and panleukopenia (distemper), viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and leukemia in felines.

Quarantine will also be imposed for pets that do not conform to the destination country’s pet import regulations. If facilities are not available, the pet will be returned to the country of origin or euthanized.

The length of quarantine can vary depending on the requirements of the destination country and your pet’s species, health status and vaccination history. Birds are almost always subject to quarantine due to the spread of Avian Influenza.

What Countries will Quarantine My Pet?

Different countries have varying regulations regarding pet import, including requirements for vaccinations, health certificates, import permits, testing and microchipping. Quarantine is a likely outcome if your pet does not conform to import requirements.

Some, but not all, countries will also impose mandatory quarantine upon entry.

Some examples of countries that impose quarantine on dogs and cats entering the country are:

• Australia (10-30 days from all countries)
• New Zealand (10 days from all countries)
• Hong Kong (4 months from high-risk countries)
• Fiji (7 – 120 days from all countries)
• Iceland (14 days from all countries)
• Jamaica (14 days from some countries)
• Japan (1-180 days from some countries)
• Malaysia (7-10 days from some countries)
• New Caledonia (10 days from some countries)
• Saipan (120 days)
• Seychelles (14-180 days from all countries)
• Singapore (30 days from some countries)
• South Africa (14 days from some countries)
• Taiwan (7 days from some countries)
• United Kingdom (4 months for rodents and rabbits from non-EU Countries)

The need for quarantine is sometimes dependent on the rabies classification of the country of origin. The World Organization for Animal Health classifies countries as rabies-free, rabies-controlled, and high rabies risk countries. Pets originating from high rabies risk countries can sometimes avoid quarantine in the destination country by having a licensed veterinarian administer a rabies titer test.

Can I See My Pet During Quarantine?

This will depend on the country where your pet is serving quarantine. Australia does not permit owners to visit their pet during quarantine. Malaysia will require that owners provide care for their pet during quarantine. Pet owners should research these requirements prior to importing their pet to a country requiring quarantine.

Do I Need to Make a Reservation for My Pet at a Quarantine Facility?

Yes, if your pet is required to serve quarantine in the destination country, you must make reservations for it in advance. Reservations should be done early on in the process, even before applying for an import permit.

Can My Pet Serve Quarantine at Home Before or After Travel?

Unfortunately, this is not possible. Quarantine facilities for pets are typically managed by government agencies responsible for animal health and importation control. These facilities are equipped to provide care and monitoring for quarantined animals during their isolation period. In all cases, your pet will be examined by a government veterinarian. Various tests may be administered to confirm your pet’s health.

Who is Responsible for Costs Associated with Pet Quarantine?

Pet owners are usually responsible for the costs associated with pet quarantine, including facility fees, veterinary exams, and any required treatments or tests. Additionally, arranging for quarantine accommodations and complying with import regulations can require careful planning and coordination.

Does my pet need to serve quarantine if it is returning to its home country from a trip?

When a pet leaves its home country, it loses its “status” and will need to reenter its home country under the same regulations as other pets. There are some exceptions to this which might involve:

• Conforming to regulations before leaving the country.
• The rabies vaccination not expiring.
• The rabies classification of the country the pet is traveling to.
• Each country has different pet import regulations.
• The time spent abroad.

Overall, pet quarantine is an essential measure aimed at protecting animal and public health, but it can be a complex and costly process for pet owners. It’s essential to thoroughly research and comply with the import regulations of the destination country and work closely with veterinarians and relevant authorities to ensure a smooth and successful transition for your pet.

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