A new destination has been proposed to you and you don’t know how life for Alfie will be down there… or you have just accepted a new post on the other side of the world and you don’t know how to prepare the trip for him… or again, you just landed and Alfie gets sick…
In this list, made possible by contribution of women (and some men!) from all over the world, you will find very useful tips to prepare your dogs to relocate, and information about how to move around during the first times in your new country.
Happy dog’s relocations!
The Expatclic Team
January 2012
Last updated: February 2012
Argentina
Australia
Bangladesh
Brazil
Canada
Denmark
Egypt
Eritrea
Ethiopia
France
Germany
Honduras
Hungary
Italy
Jerusalem
Kenya
Kuwait
Morocco
Peru
Romania
Spain
South Africa
Sudan
Switzerland
The Netherlands
USA
Zimbabwe
Argentina, Buenos Aires
Veterinary:
Wimpi
Salguero 3090, en el barrio Palermo.
Teléfono (00 54 11) 4805-9010
Buenos Aires is a friendly city for dogs. In my city the majority of children wants to have a puppy, and many parents buy or adopt one to make them happy. Therefore there are many families with dogs and the city is very well equipped to host our dear four-legged friends.
In all districts there are veterinarians. You can find their address on the Internet, or you can ask the janitor of your building, or even a neighbor that walks with his dog. In the streets or in the parks it is very common to see dog owners who chat and exchange information on their animals, while these sniff each other.
Some veterinaries, besides medical attention, also offer washing and fur cutting. Others assist you in the preparation of the documents to travel with your dogs. Almost all sell dog food and items such as leashes, muzzles, toys, etc..
In supermarkets, both big and small ones, there is a special part for animals with everything you might need for the man’s best friend: food, toys, biscuits, pet beds, cages for transportation and much more.
For those who fear that his dog might get cold or wet in the rain, there are tailors that design wool coats, raincoats and boots for the rain.
If you go on vacation and can not take your dog with you, there are pensions that will treat him very well. Some have pools, special diets, spaces for running, green acres to walk, games and activities. These can be defined real “spa for dogs.”
Buenos Aires has a service that I have not seen in other cities, the “dog walkers”, that must have a certificate in order to carry out this activity. These are people who love dogs and make sure to guarantee an important and healthy activity, especially for dogs who live in apartments: the walk. It’s very nice to see the walkers with a large group of dogs of various breeds and sizes, and all friends with each other.
They walk the streets and play in the parks. Fortunately, these people have the habit of putting the “gifts” of our friends in a bag . Gradually in Buenos Aires people get used to observe this rule.
Until recently dogs had a very successful TV show: “The portal of the dogs.” This program took care of lost dogs. Those who found a lost dog took him to the television channel of the program and often the meeting between the dog and its owner was broadcast live. It was very heart-warming to see the master meeting again his four-legged friend. He was crying into the camera, and we did the same at home. This program has been of great help to many families and their animals.
In Argentina there are many associations for animal protection, vaccination campaigns and organizations that collaborate to have animals adopted across the country. Through the efforts of these associations people have learned to take properly care of their dogs and not to abandon them. If you decide to go to Buenos Aires with your dog, you will not regret it.
Thanks to Malena
Australia, Melbourne
In Melbourne dogs and cats must be registered, the registration costs vary depending on the municipalities. In the City of Yarra, where we live, these are the costs: dog: $ 45 full fee, concession 14:40; cat: 27 Full fee, concession 10.20. The registration medal is put on the collar so that it can be easily shown if the “controllers” stop you in the street (and they do it!). In addition, both dogs and cats must be “microchipped” (a “chip” is inserted into the ear of the animal, and contains the data of the master, in case the animal gets lost).
There are no mandatory vaccines, but the vet will suggest what is most appropriate.
Cats should stay indoors as they can cause damage to local wildlife. For dogs, every neighborhood has parks and beaches with designated areas where they can go without a leash. On the beaches, especially in summer, there are specific times (for instance early morning) in which dogs can be left free. Each park and beach has special machines that distribute biodegradable plastic bags to collect faeces. So there is no excuse: it is mandatory to collect them!
Dogs and cats are present in almost every family in Melbourne, so there are plenty of veterinarians, food stores and even “beauty centers”.
Thanks to Barbara
Bangladesh, Dhaka
In Bangladesh dogs are not happily accepted, it’s a Muslim country, where dogs (and pigs) are considered unclean animals. Despite this, there are several dogs around, both strays, in poor conditions, both domestic, at home with expats.
Here, thanks to all the help available, it is easy to keep a dog, you have someone that brings it out all the time, washes it, combs it, feeds it… but then when the moment to leave for another destination arrives, people often leave the dog behind, relying on word of mouth to find him another place. We have found a home for a lot of dogs around the country, usually with the missionaries, who love them! They even took in a St. Bernard dog, who arrived here with an Indian family, that had imported him when he was a puppy from Europe, and then realized that once grown, he was a bit too…big!
Veterinary health care here is a disaster. There are no veterinary clinics, except for a military structure we have no access to, so no x-rays, no analysis, no … nothing!
There are two known veterinarians, I won’t give the name of one because my experience with him was very bad (he did not even touch the animals, had several assistants who were the “hands”), the other one is an Iranian refugee who loves animals, and does what he can, with great results, at least for what concerns us:
Dr. Siamak
Uttara (Dhaka)
+8801711561155
Preferably home visits, has no real surgery place, even small operations are performed at home (for us with great success). It has all the necessary vaccines and medicines, intuition and a very long experience.
The everyday life, however, as mentioned above, is simple, help is abundant, and if the home maids and boys are not Muslims, you may be lucky enough to have personnell that loves dogs, and is reciprocated. You must be careful when you walk the dog never to go near a mosque, or Orthodox groups, otherwise you risk. Even if registered, with medal, passport and letter of recommendations, dogs can just be taken away and suppressed. Just like that. Dogs are not allowed in almost all parks or gardens, so you either have a garden, or you take it to walk on the dusty roads.
Thanks to Claudia
Brazil, Sao Paulo
SaoPaulo
VeterinariesMildredPoggettiand AmarilisGarcia
VeterinaryClinic“Doguee Gato” RuaBartira659,Perdizes – SaoPaulo.
Phone: (11) 3873-3232/(11) 3801-2312
These two excellent veterinaries, MildredPoggetti and Amarilis Garcia, are the owners of the clinic“Doguee Gato” in the city of SaoPaulo. They take care of my dog since we got here and it’s thanks to them that I can travel happily, knowing thatI leave my dog in the best hands, and that during my absence nothing bad will happen to him, as long as he’s with them and with a their warm staff of collaborators.
Everyone there loves animals and never misses a chance to prove it. In their clinic there is a surgery service, a medical studio, special areas for animals that spend time there, and a shop with everything you need for dogs and cats. SaoPaulo is a city with lots of dogs and cats, and is full of veterinaries and shops specializing in animal articles.
You are of course required to keep them on a leash and pick up the feces (which many people often forget to do). There are many areas where dogs of good character are left free, and play under the watchful eyes of their masters, and even if it is not allowed (because in almost all areast here are signs that indicate that dogs must be kept at a leash), no one usually protest or complain. In the Ibirapuera Park, the largest one in town, with 6 miles of perimeter, dogs must be kept at a leash, but there is one area in the park, which I discovered recently, in front of the Praça doPorquinho, where they can run free.
Thanks to Rupexpat
Canada, Montréal
If you plan to live in Montreal with a dog, remember you are in a country where everyone has a high regard for the law and dogs are also expected to comply! Everyone makes it their business to pay the annual fee for the registration tag (https://ville.montreal.qc.ca, details and costs vary according to your district or arrondissement w). You have to make sure all papers are in order and comply with the required vaccines and other health needs (on the website above you can find veterinary clinics in the district where you live). The service is usually very good, there are emergency clinics where the waiting time is by far less than in any hospital for humans!
But good health is not enough! The law says that in Montreal dogs are not allowed to bark and you must therefore explain to your faithful friend that he has to become absolutely silent and develop other ways of expressing his joy when your return home and disappointment when he is left alone at home for a few hours. Here they sell horrible instruments of torture like collars that emit electric shocks (obviously harmless, at low voltage) every time the dog barks! Of course they have a deterrent effect, but I personally find it really cruel!
The main problem is to find an apartment for rent where dogs are allowed. And if the landlord has no objection, the neighbors can always decide to call the police to’ report the barking dog. Apart from this little problem, dogs are much loved by all, there are spaces to let them run free in the parks. Walking the dog is also a great way to socialize, since most people will stop to caress him and to show an interest in his habits and also in his owner’s (especially if young, pretty and blonde!).
Thanks to Marilena
Denmark, Copenhagen
Veterinary in Danish is dyelaeger and vet clinic Dyreklinik og Dyrehospital.
Lots of families in Denmark have pets, so it is not difficult to find good vets and veterinary clinics. Treatments are usually quite expensive. All vets are good in Copenhaghen, and there are lots of addresses, I’ll just give you one in case of emergency, it’s a vet clinic open 24/24 hours the whole year:
Københavns Dyrehospital P/S
Poppelstykket 11
2450 København SV
Phone 36 17 57 11
https://www.koebenhavnsdyrehospital.dk
Dogs are welcome in Copenhagen, but they must kept on a leash. However there are lots of parks with leash-free areas for dogs, for instance Amager Strandpark, Christiansvold, Damhusengen, Fælledparken, Utterslevmose, albyparken, Vigerslevparken. Watch out for the ”i snor”, that in Danish means ”on a leash” – if you see a panel with this phrase, keep your dog on a leash because fines are high. Bernstorff Palace & Gardens, in Gentofte, right outside Copenhagen, is a wonderful place where you can let your dog run free on the wide lawns, gardens and woods.
If you travel and need to leave your dog in Copenhagen, you can try one of these two kennels:
Asserholm
Asserholmvej 1, 4390
Asserholm. Tel: 59 18 16 98
www.asserholm.dk
The staff speak English.
The Dansk Kennel Klub
Parkvej 1, 2680 Solrod Strand,
Tel 56 18 81 00 E-mail:
post@dansk-kennel-klub.dk
https://www.dansk-kennel-klub.dk/352/704
Known as the DKK, this is the biggest organization for dog owners in Denmark.
All vets sell food for dog, but you can find animals shops in every neighbourhood. Maxi Zoo (www.maxizoo.dk) and ZooZity (www.zoozity.dk) are very well supplied superstores. If you want home delivery, go to Oliver’s Petfood (www.olivers.dk).
Finally, here you find all the information about moving with your pet in and out of Denmark: https://www.uk.foedevarestyrelsen.dk/forside.htm
Thanks to Giorgio
Egypt, Cairo
This is certainly not the ideal place to bring a dog, it is important to know that there are no parks and it is necessary to look for a house in a compound with green spaces or a house with garden. Dogs are not readily accepted and the problem of poisoning is serious: if dogs bark or bother in other ways, sometimes they receive some poisonous food.
There are acceptable vets, a good one is Advance Care Vet Clinic in Rd
199 Maadi, tel. 02 27544267, email: advancecarevet@hotmail.com
All supermarkets have food for dogs. This website has lots of interesting indications for life with an animal in Cairo: https://cairopets.com/
Thanks to Alessandra and Jane
Eritrea, Asmara
Veterinarian: you must go to the veterinary department of state, go to their office to get an appointment. I strongly advise, however, to take with you any medicines that your dog might need, as it is hard to find them in the country.
WARNING: Eritrean laws on animals export are different from European laws, it is easy to take out of Eritrea an adopted pet, but the process is different when you have to enter Europe. To get an animal out of the country you just need the antirabies vaccine and a certificate of good health that can be issued by the veterinary department of state, to be made at least two weeks before the trip.
There are no microchips in Eritrea, and no laboratories that provide the antirabies counting, so you either obtain a waiver from the Ministry of Health of the country where the animal is going to go, allowing him to enter that country despite not having all the requirements of the European laws, or you’ll have to take a blood sample of your dog and send it to Dubai for the examination of the antirabies counting. The microchip, required upon arrival in Europe, is a most serious issue, as it must be personally inserted by a veterinarian in order to be legal, and this is not possible in Eritrea.
If the above mentioned waiver is not granted, the only solution is to import the dog without microchip and to declare upon arrival in the European country the reasons why the pet has no microchip, and be prepared to have the pet quarantined.
From the point of view of the dog: Asmara is the ideal city for expat dogs for at least two fundamental reasons: first, that despite being Africa, the climate is perfect, dry and cool for most of the year; the second reason is that it’s easy to find houses with large fenced gardens. The dog is welcome and although it is not considered a pet as in Europe, people do not treat him badly.
From the point of view of the master, living with a dog in Asmara presents a number of difficulties, basically because there are no private veterinary clinics, pet shops or areas for dogs in town, and you’ll have to cope with a situation that will require you to organize all minimal details before arriving or to find alternative methods once there (there is not a store where to buy a collar, leash, bed, etc.). There are not many expats who decide to bring a dog in Eritrea, and those who do choose to keep them in the garden all the time (most of the houses have large fenced gardens at a very affordable price, it is almost harder to find an apartment than a house), since there are lots of non vaccinated dogs all around. Even fewer are the expats that after adopting a dog in Asmara, decide to take it home with them, and it is not uncommon upon your arrival to be asked to take the dog of someone who is about to leave and does not know where to leave it.
A typical problem is how to feed the pets, since there is no packaged food. There are several butchers that sell meat wastes at a very low price, but if the dog is accustomed to a certain type of food you should take it with you from home (most of the expats arriving in Eritrea send their stuff by container).
The most important thing to think about before leaving are what medications to take with you, since there are none available in Eritrea and shipments, besides being costly, require several days before reaching destination. In my experience it is useful to ask your vet a list of basic medicines to take with you, which also includes antihistamines in case of ingestion of different foods that can lead to the usual allergies, dermatitis products (the climate is drier than in Europe and are they not uncommon), and a good pesticide.
Thanks to Lia
Ethiopia, Addis Ababa
Rabies is endemic and urban in Ethiopia, and the phenomenon of stray – and probably sick – dogs is widespread. So be careful to let dogs approach you in the street.
Vaccination against rabies is therefore mandatory, and local authorities are very strict on the matter. For the rest, there are no special rules about having a dog, or registration requirements. At least not not until three years ago.
Microchips or tattoo become necessary if the dog has to leave Ethiopia, and go to another country. The veterinarian who took care of my dog has gone abroad and I cannot give you any other contacts.
In the capital Addis Ababa, however, there are many good veterinary clinics and any expatriate will be able to inform the newcomers. I remember there was a good vet in the area of Casa Ancis.
A good reference is the Institute Pasteur, which also gives advice on rabies and checks the dog in case of doubt. Its full name is actually South African Health and Nutrition Research Institute (EHNRI), tel. 00251-1-754746
Thanks to Alessandra
France, Paris
Life with a dog in Paris is very similar to what you can experience in other large European cities.
IDENTIFICATION
For each animal you possess you are required to have an updated record of vaccinations and to have a vet insert a microchip at the base of the neck of your pet. With the insertion of the microchip the dog (or cat) will be automatically registered in the dog register and you will be able to apply for a passport, which is required for any air travel.
In the event that your dog has already inserted the microchip elsewhere, simply go to a veterinarian with the number and he will add your dog to the local register (this is important because it allows you to find your dog in the new country if you lose it…. The registers of the different European countries unfortunately still do not communicate automatically).
INSURANCE
It can always be useful, but in France it is compulsory for the attack, guard and defense dogs.
WALKS
In the streets dogs must be kept on a leash.
They are usually well received everywhere, and can enter all stores except supermarkets. At the entrance of the parks or gardens it is always indicated whether they are accepted or not.
In the Metro, RER and buses they travel for free, but small dogs must be put in a bag or basket. In the RER there are special spaces for big dogs.
You are required to collect their faeces (almost no one does it but recently they have begun to give fines).
LOST-FOUND
If you lose or find an animal you should contact the Societé Centrale Canine (SCC – Dogs Central Society) or the SIEV. Make a declaration to the police station and contact the veterinary of the neighbourhood.
VETERINARY
There are so many, in every neighborhood. It’s them who manage veterinary drug and and sell quality food. BHV (Bazaar Hotel de Ville) has a great pet store where you can find everything you need.
I leave you the address of a good veterinarian who speaks a little English:
Horn-Yola
4, rue François 1ère
75008
Tel 01 42561718
Thanks to Fabiana
Germany
Berlin
Tiernotartz (animals emergency, can be reached 24/24)
0174-160 160 6
https://www.tiernotarzt-berlin.de/
Dr Demmler e Dr Wehming
Wiener Straße 25
10999 Berlin-Kreuzberg
030 6181766
Praxis der Tiernaturheilkunde (natural medicine for animals)
Kottbusser Damm 75
10999 Berlin-Kreuzberg
030 87330787
The city of Berlin, like many other German cities, wants all dogs to be registered with microchip. In Berlin there are no stray dogs, simply because as soon as there is one, he’s taken and registered. You must keep your dog at a leash, if you don’t in the parks you’ll have a fine, the only obligation to put the muzzle on the dog is on public transportation, but people in Berlin in general is very tolerant towards transgressions and loves dogs . The faecis must be collected, in parks you find plastic bags hanging from the trees. This works very well in residential neighborhoods where everyone knows each other and perhaps not in other areas. There is a lot of control, so much so that the baskets where one puts the dirty bags are emptied every night, , and new bags are provided.
The dog must be strictly in compliance with vaccinations requirements. The veterinarian will immediategly issue a European passport, if you have a dog born in a country outside Europe you should convert its passport as soon as possible. In winter it is very common to cover dogs with a coat.
Every neighborhood has at least one veterinarian and a pet shop, pet products are found in all supermarkets.
Thanks to Silviaexpat
Munich
The official page of the city of Munich (www.muenchen.de) is very well done, you can find almost everything you want: the main page with references and rules to register dogs can be found here, while the online forms for registration (Anmeldung zur Hundesteuer) can be found here.
Your dog must be registered within 2 weeks from its arrival in your home.
The annual fee for owning a dog (you pay only once, even if you have more than one dog) is 100€ (800€ if you have a “combat” dog (Kampfhunde), according to the list shown on the website under “Regulations”.
After you register your dog, you’ll receive at your place a nametag with a number: it must be applied to the collar of your dog and, in case of control, it will save you a fine …
Monaco and its surroundings are ideal for a nice walk with our Fido but there are rules to follow: dogs must be carried on a leash in areas reserved to children (Kinderspielplätze), restricted areas for sunbathing (Liegewiesen) and in protected natural areas (Zieranlagen, Biotope, Naturschutzgebiet).
Ça vas sans dire that the use of the bag to collect your dog’s waste is compulsory, apart from being the minimum expression of civility and education. Should you fail to use it, fines go from € 75 to 250 € when the breech occurs in protected area.
All information is available in this brochure.
In this site and in this one you can find different proposals of insurances for dogs (Hundehaftpflicht Vergleichsrechner) both for civil responsibility and for damages in the apartment in case you are renting one. A perhaps superfluous suggestion: always read well the general conditions of the contract and in case they are not clear contact another insurance!
Thanks to Danila
Honduras, Tegucigalpa
Veterinary:
Clinica Veterinaria Matamoros
Colonia Palmira, Av. Republica de Mexico 2309
Tegucigalpa
Tel. 2367862 /2214340
Emergencies: 99857192
E-mail: veterinariamatamoros@hotmail.com
Tegucigalpa is not really the ideal city for dogs: there are no areas where they can walk, so that those who arrive with a dog usually look for a house with garden. Dogs are anyway tollerated, so if you keep them on a leash, you can take them out from time to time.
There are several veterinary clinics, and a very well supplied shop for animals products, which is right in front of the Texaco gas station of Colonia Palmira (very close to the vet).
You vet will take care of the procedure to register your dog.
Thanks to Claudiaexpat
Hungary, Budapest
In order to enter Hungary dogs must have their European passport and a health certificate issued by a veterinarian accredited by the government of the country from which they come. This certificate must include the dog’s microchip number and details of the valid antirabies vaccination. If the dog is a puppy less than 3 months old, and has therefore not yet been vaccinated against rabies, he can enter Budapest only by presenting a certificate of special health, the model can be found here: https://www.mgszh.gov.
The dog’s owner must also submit a copy of his own passport, visa or work permit and the Letter of Passage plane (also known as “Books boarding” when the animal is sent as cargo). The Veterinarian Ministry of Hungary must be informed of the arrival of the dog at least 3 days in advance so as to be able to prepare a Veterinary Custom Zone, especially on weekends. Budapest is a very friendly city for dogs, it is actually the European city with more dogs per capita. You see dogs at all times and everywhere, of every size and breed. As in Europe, it is mandatory to clean when the dog evacuates, and the city is equipped with distributors of plastic bags near all parks and places most attended by our 4-legged friends. There are many green areas in which access is not allowed to dogs (especially those for children), but there are many others where you can let your dog run free!
There are many veterinary clinics throughout the city, both in Buda to Pest, so it’s recommended to find one close to home. Here, however, are some indications that may be useful to start with:
Veterinary Victor Szasz
Pauler Vet
1103 Budapest, Roham utca 3
rendelo@paulervet.hu
Tel: +36-1-225-0523
Mobile: +36-30-676-5818
www.paulervet.hu
Receives from Monday to Friday and Saturdays from 10 to 20 10 to 13.
Dogmopolite:
H-1118 Budapest, Sasadi út 36.
Tel: (06-1) 246-23-06
Fax: (06-1) 239-24-31
Mobile: (06-20) 477-56-00
www.dogmopolite.hu
@ gardos.peter dogmopolite.hu
Dogmopolite is a company that offers comprehensive services of excellent quality for dogs. Among others, they offer “dog walkers”, schools and boarding for dogs, and much more.
And finally, for those who do not have a dog but think to get one in Budapest, I recommend Buda Dogs (https://budadogs.no/), a non-profit project that takes care of dogs and finds them a home.
Thanks to Mociexpat
Italy, Milan
Veterinary:
Cinzia Ocello
Via Solari 41
Milan
Tel 02 4233722 / cell. 3388119170
Very good vet, she does home visits.
Always in Via Solari you find agrooming service for dogs and cats run by a great guy who washes and cuts the nails of your animal at reasonable prices and with great devotion. You can also wash your dog on the spot, at a reduced price:
Centro Toelettatura Cani Giovanni Maioli
Via Solari 41
Tel 02 42290939
All over Milan the dog must be kept on a leash (short, in the case of dogs of “threatening” size) with a muzzle attached to the leash, “in case of necessity”. These rules are applied with a lot of liberty, and in the very few parks located in the city, you will often see dogs move freely.
The parks generally have areas reserved for dogs, fenced, where you can let your pet roam free, as long as the local “Mafia” that feels entitled to occupy it before you arrive lets you participate. You must collect the feces of your animal (another highly disregarded rule), the city provides distributors of bags for this purpose in the parks.
Your dog should be registered at the ASL. The procedure is straightforward: just go with the animal to the ASL (phone number listed below to find out where is the local health-service veterinarian near you), and present the certificate of vaccination.
City of Milan ASL
Animal Health Secretariat Viale Molise, 66 / B
tel. 02.8578.9067 – 02.8578.9083
fax 02.8578.9059
E-mail: serviziveterinari@asl.milano.it
There are lots of shops as well as veterinary clinics and veterinarians. Look in the Yellow Pages under “animali”.
Thanks to Claudiaexpat
Jerusalem
There are two veterinaries here, Zvi Fleishman (very good, speaks good English, he took very well care of my dog and now of my cat. I sent him a lot of friends and everyone has been happy) and his colleague Tamar Ben-Zvi, whom I do not know directly. Be careful not to park in the alley where they have their clinic, you get a fine immediately! There is ample parking space in the streets close by (on the blue and white stripes, for a fee, that you can pay at the machines on the streets).
Dogs in Jerusalem, like humans, live a completely different situation depending on whether they are in the east or west. In the first case, since Muslim culture is not particularly fond of dogs, it is better to avoid walking with your dog in the streets, especially the kids can get nasty sometimes, in extreme cases even throw stones at the dog. Those who live in the east with a dog usually always try to rent a house with a piece of garden or an apartment with a terrace, and bring the animal to walk in special places. There are veterinarians in the East. In the West, on the contrary, dogs are loved and revered, and you will have no problem to take them around on a leash. There are many green areas where you can get them, but you must always keep them on a leash and even if it is not mandatory, I suggest you to collect their feces.
There are many shops (less the East) selling all sorts of items for animals, including the best imported brands of dog food. Let me point out in particular the Jungle Shop, a chain present in various parts of the city, the largest one is at Malhar Mall (near the stadium).
In Tel Aviv there is a dog beach (behind the Hilton Hotel), where you can let your pet run free and take a bath (with or without it).
The only thing that has to be recorded when you have a dog in Jerusalem is the renewal of the anti-rabies vaccine, your veterinarian will take care of transmitting it to the municipality.
Thanks to Claudiaexpat
Kenya, Nairobi
In Nairobi, all those who can afford it get an independent house with garden if they possess one or more dogs, mainly because they act as guardians and security in this city is always at risk. This group of dogs does not at all have “a dog’s life”, at least in the residential areas inhabited by the rich (not just white), and I often see them walking in the morning on a leash, accompanied by an “Askari” (guardian), since British culture considers pets as family members and takes very good care of them.
In recent years, with an increasing population and the appearance of a rather wealthy middle class, many apartment buildings have been built, where I hear it’s forbidden to keep dogs (cats are allowed because they are more discreet).
There are no stray dogs here because they are all brought to KSPCA (Kenya Society for the Protection and Care of Animals). This ancient charity association, founded by a group of expatriate women like us, is well known and very active both in welcoming abandoned dogs, and in providing adoption for them.
There are about twenty private veterinarians located in all districts of the city, all take more or less advantage of this local business, but I think veterinarians at KSPCA may be a reference point for any problem.
Only dogs must be registered with the municipality, that will issue a certificate, to be renewed annually at a cost of 500 Kenyan shillings (5 euros), and that demonstrates the regularity of annual boosters of rabies vaccine (compulsory in Kenya).
For air travel with domestic animals, the situation is complicated because they can only do so with a certificate called “Rabies neutralising serum antibody testing report”, indicating protection against rabies (I quote from the certificate: Interpretation: an antibody titre of 0.5 IU / ml or above after rabies vaccination Indicates Protection Against According to the guidelines of the WHO / OIE). A few months before departure you therefore have to contact a local veterinarian that sends the blood of your pet to this special South African Veterinary Institute, and by paying the sum of 470 Rands (I am referring to a bill of 2008) by bank transfer, you will receive the require certificate for air travel. Big business even in this case…
For more detailed information and advice visit the website https://www.kspca-kenya.org or write directly to their email address: jules@kspca-kenya.org.
Thanks to Carla
Kuwait, Kuwait City
No problems for our beloved Fido. In Kuwait we have a wonderful clinic for animals, a little out of town, 45 minutes in the desert, where they look after, heal and host animals of all types, including birds. They also have a pet store where you can find all the necessary products for dogs. Fully managed by a team of Italian veterinarians, this is their website, where you can find their contact: www.ivhq8.com
There is another association, the PAWS (https://paws-kuwait.org/blog/) that takes care of finding a home for abandoned animals, treat them, and promotes initiatives in defense of animals. They accept (and look for!) volunteers, so if you love animals and have a little free time, this place is for you.
Thanks to Antonella
Morocco, Rabat
Having a dog in Morocco is not a common thing, and veterinarians are rare. The entry in Morocco is simple if you have all the papers. You do not often see people walking with their dogs on a leash: better to look for a house with a garden!
Do not forget that in Morocco there is rabies and that remains a public health problem, especially because of the large amount of stray dogs.
Veterinarian:
Dr Rachid Bouziane (Francophone)
Veterinary clinic
Mable – 55 Zankat El Charb
Tel: 037653043
Thanks to Anne
Peru, Lima
Veterinarian:
Manuel Aran
Aurora veterinaria
Republica de Panama 6076
Miraflores (Lima)
Tel 4451459/4482592
E-mail: veterinariaaurora@gmail.com
Very good and human. He also visits at home
or
SOS Veterinaria
Y Paz Soldan 525 Av Alayza
Santa Cruz, Miraflores (Lima)
Tel 222 8967
They can guide you through the entire process to export your dog.
Having a dog in Lima is very easy. There are many well equipped veterinary clinics and shops selling all sorts of products for dogs. They can walk with no problem (always best to keep them on a leash), and in some districts there are large green areas to make them run. In some areas the dog is just fondled (see article on dog parties). The most convenient thing is the dog bath: they come to take the dog and bring it back clean and perfumed after a few hours! Lots of dogs run along the Malecon (the promenade along the sea), and in some parks here you can free them and enjoy the company of other dog owners. If you really need an isolated and big space to let your dog run free, you can take it to one of the closest beach south of Lima: during winter they are completely free and no one will bother you (maybe just avoid going there alone, though usually a dog of great size is a perfect deterrent).
The dog must be registered at the Lima municipality of the district where you live. The procedure is quick and easy, they visit the dog, check that the antirabies vaccine is updated, they take a photograph, and then release a booklet and a tag. It ‘s important to register the dog, controls are strict, and if something happens, for example if your dog bites someone, and it is not in compliance with the municipality, the penalties are high. You need to renew your registration once a year, presenting the updated certificate of antirabies vaccination (a shot must given every year).
Thanks to Claudiaexpat
Romania, Bucarest
To enter Romania your animal needs an ISO microchip and the usual vaccinations including rabies, made a year and a minimum of 21 days before departure. If the dog comes from a country with rabies he must
undergo a blood test 1 month after vaccination and 3 months before departure.
In Romania there are many stray dogs, about 50,000 are in Bucharest alone, and it was recently discovered that many have leptospirosis. I do not know if it can be transmitted to domestic dogs when they are take to
the park or for a walk.
Veterinarians:
Daisy’s vet
https://www.daisy-vet.ro/contact.htm
Str Cpt. Av Alexandru Serbanescu No. 34, Sector 1, Bucharest
Tel +4 021 2333714
Fax +4 021 2333703
Mob +4 0769 255234
Mon-Fri 9:00 to 21:00, Saturday and Sunday 9:00 to 16:00
They also visit at home. Dana is very good, but her collegue is also excellent. They also have a grooming service and a food store for dogs, cats, etc. …
There is also a veterinary service 24h/24h:
Vet Clinic-Dorobanti
Calea Dorobantilor – str. Tudor Vianu no. 3
021 / 021 opp 230.03.62 / 230.10.62
0727.606.919 0727.606.262 mob opp
There are no rules about walking with the dogs and the collection of faeces. Neither taxes to pay for the tag. Many parks have areas reserved for dogs, often divided by size. However some parks prohibit the entrance (there is a sign) to dogs and bicycles!
Because of the many stray dogs, people are often afraid of loose dogs. It ‘always better to have the leash ready at hand.
Pet food stores are everywhere. I do not think you find puffed rice. In Bucharest you can buy scraps of meat from the butchers market Obor (1 € per kg).
Thanks to Ursula
Spain, Barcelona
Veterinarians:
There are many, in every district of the city.
Veterinary Clinic Taquara
Carrer Rossend Nobas 23,
08018 Barcelona
+34 93 265 9226
València Veterinaris
Calle Valencia 577
08026 Barcelona
+34 93 232 4521
Having a dog in a Spanish city becomes increasingly difficult. Although there are many veterinary clinics, groomings for dogs and shops selling all kinds of products for our four-legged friends, in public places they are not always accepted. It’s been already a while that it is forbidden by law to introduce them in public catering places. More recently, other types of shops (clothes, souvenirs, etc..) show more and more a sign that says that dogs are not allowed.
Dogs may be walked in the street, but must be kept on a leash. The famous “pipi can” (dog feces) abounds. In theory dogs cannot go on the beach. but in winter the police turn a blind eye. But please do not absolutely go there in summer!
Dogs must be registered in the municipalities of the district. It’s also imperative that they have a microchip. When you bring your dog out, it is always better to have with you the documents to prove that vaccines are up to date. Please note, if you lose your dog or if he runs away, and is found by the municipality, you will pay a minimum fee of 60 euros a day to have it back, because in the meantime he will have been examined by a veterinarian, freed of parasites and nourished.
Thanks to Caroline
South Africa, Johannesburg
There is no problem whatsoever for dogs in South Africa (at least in the big cities). There are numerous and competent vets. What is complicated is the process to get the dog into the country. Besides all regular documents usually required (antirabies counting, microchip, up-dated vaccinations), you have to get the official South African documents, the international ones are not enough. It is very easy to find associations for dogs training.
Veterinary :
Rivonia Village Vet.
Drs Fleming & Viljoen
PO BOX 1777
POURWAYS
Tel : 803 3122
Thanks to Anne
Sudan, Khartoum
Here in Khartoum, the veterinarian of reference is Dr Ahmed Ali, tel +249 91 2359057.
There is an important clinic for dogs (they also visit cats) at the Police Department where dr. Ali works (but he also comes at home). There is no special food for dogs nor dogs’ toys or other products. Important: the rabies vaccine and vermifuge are available locally from dr Ali.
Life is not easy for dogs in general in Sudan.
It is not easy to take a walk, you must forget gardens and green open spaces where you can let your dog run, and adapt to dusty and always busy roads.
There are many stray dogs, often emaciated and very sick, that roam in the early hours of the day.
Many of the dogs I have known, that came from foreign countries, had to return home, and some even did not make it! A dog’s life, really!
Switzerland
Geneva
Owning a dog in Switzerland is obviously the subject of a specific regulation.
First, in Switzerland the practice of tail docking is absolutely prohibited, since the tail is considered – rightly – a key element for both the physical balance of the dog, and especially for his communication with the outside world. A dog with a docked tail can not tell us clearly whether he is happy, if he’s angry, if he is afraid and then somehow represents a danger. For himself and for others.
As soon as you become the owner of a dog you must:
– Enter it in the register of ANIS ( www.anis.ch ), such registration is usually done by the vet at the first vaccination, however, it is up to the owner to verify it. If you adopt a dog from someone else, you must report the change of owners to ANIS. The dog must also have a chip under the skin with a
reference number – make an insurance for owners of dogs, which is usually given for free to those who are already holders of full insurance for the house that also covers the responsibility of all members of the family
– Make sure vaccinations are up to date. With regard to compulsory vaccination things are a bit more complex. In theory, in some cantons like Geneva, for example, vaccination against rabies is no longer compulsory. However I do know that a dog that is not vaccinated against rabies can not get the registration tag – compulsory by the municipality of residence. In addition, in some areas of the canton of Geneva, there are more and more fox circulating on the streets and although the authorities ensure that they are not affected by rabies, I prefer to protect my dog and my children from this risk. It must be remembered that rabies is a horrible disease both for dogs and humans and that the symptoms show themselves when it is alredy too late.
– Enroll the dog in the register of the municipality of residence, which will provide annually a tag that proves that everything is in order, including the renewal of the municipal fee which is about 110 chf
– Follow a theoretical and practical course that has as main objective to teach the human to communicate with the dog and above all to be respected by him (the cost can vary but generally it is around 180 chf). Security is one of the top priorities in Switzerland, it is obvious that a well trained dog is also happy and satisfied and reduces its potential danger for the community. A dog must learn to walk at the pace of the master, to obey orders, so that he can move freely in the places where he is admitted, without causing any nuinsace. As of January 1st, 2012 all owners of a dog must follow this course.
In the event that the dog is coming with you from another country, the procedure depends on the country of origin.
In my case (Ethiopia), where rabies is endemic and urban, I had to send a sample of serum from the blood of my dog to the University of Bern. The blood was tested and I was given permission to proceed with the import of the dog, after presentation of an (interminable…) series of documents provided by a veterinarian in Ethiopia. The dog also had to have the microchip chip inserted under the skin.
For all that relates to the possession of a dog, including import, you should inquire in advance and visit the site: www.bvet.admin.ch
Rules are constantly changing and is therefore better to stay up-dated.
Thanks to Alessandra
Zurich
In order to import a dog in Switzerland you need to have the passport of the animal, with all vaccinations clearly marked.
Once imported the dog must be registered in the Swiss dogs registry: www.anis.ch This must be done by a veterinarian, who will read or implant the microchip to identify the animal.
In Zurich there is also the Hundesteuer, which is managed by the Stadt Polizei (State Police). Just go to the office (you can find the address on the internet typing Hundesteuer Zurich) with all the documents of the dog and the owner. Taxes are paid every year in January.
As for vets, there is a clinic in Watts, near Regensdorf which is very good for orthopedic care: https://www.bessys.ch Then there is the Tierspital: https://www.tierspital.uzh.ch/
On this site (in German) there are lots of information on life with dogs in Zurich: https://www.stadt-zuerich.ch/ted/de/index/gsz/angebote_u_beratung/beratung/hunde.html
Thanks to Annalia
The Netherlands
You may import animals to Holland if they are not meant to be traded or sold. Pets are very popular here, so pets products and services are plentiful. If you are bringing your pet from abroad, there are of course regulations to be followed. Dutch people are very fond of dogs, and there are many. But if you chose to live in a big city, be aware that people are not so keen on dogs. The “poop on the stoep (sidewalk)”, is a big issue. But if you clean up, you will find a lot of sympathy. And just outside the city, you and your dog will have a great time. Lots of nice walks, and the climate is great for dogs!
Pet passport
If you wish to bring your dog (or cat for that matter) with you, it will need its own pet passport. To get this, you must have a veterinarian in the country you are moving from examine your pet.
This passport must list the following information:
* The name of the owner and a complete description of the animal: breed, sex, age, colour, fur type and other specific marks.
* A statement from the vet that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies and the date this was done.
* A declaration from the veterinarian that your pet does not show any signs of disease. This must be dated less than 14 days before the date of departure from the country of residence.
* Tatoo or micro chip number
Pets being imported from an unlisted country require a blood test to confirm the rabies vaccination. The rabies vaccination must be given more than one month and less than one year before entering the Netherlands. If, upon arrival, your pet does not have a passport it will be vaccinated on the spot and will have to remain in quarantine for 30 days.
And, like all other official documents presented in the Netherlands, this must be in Dutch, English, French or German or it will have to be translated into one of these languages.
No quarantine is required if your pet is healthy and vaccinations are up-to-date.
Microchip implants
Pets must have a microchip implanted under the skin of the animal, programmed with an ID number that can be read using a scanner. The ID is linked to a European database containing information about the animal so that it is easier for authorities to reunite lost pets with their owners. If you have had a microchip implanted in your pet, it is worth getting it read to ensure that the number is recognized by the database. If it is not in the database, you can register it for a small fee. Do this at the vet’s office.
Dog Tax (Hondenbelasting)
You do not need a permit for your dog in the Netherlands. However, there is a tax on dogs in many cities. They must be registered with the Municipal Tax Department (Gemeentelijke Belastingdienst). To do this, send a letter that includes your contact information, the date you arrived, and the number of dogs you have.
Note: Pit Bull Terriers are prohibited for import to the Netherlands.
Veterinary care
Veterinary care is excellent in the Netherlands, and all vets speak English. Most vets have a special time when you can stop by unannounced with your pet for a check up or vaccinations. You can call also them for an appointment. Usually you will receive a reminder from your vet when it’s time for your pet’s next vaccination. It is not necessary to give an address of a good vet here, as all vets are good. Just check the Internet, or ask any other dog owner, for the nearest vet around. Any vet can give you information about moving abroad again or where to find the necessary offices to do the “legal” work. You can pay in cash when you visit a vet, it is not cheap, but standard of care is very good. Most vets do their own surgery, unless it is something really special, in which case they send you to special veterinary hospitals for pets, one is in Utrecht.
You will also find lots of “trim salons”, that will trim your dog hairs and give it a good wash also. No perfume though, as it is considered not good, because dogs have very sensitive noses, and the amount of perfume that is needed for us to be able to smell it, is an overdose for the poor dog. Ask for the nearest trim salon at a good pet shop.
Rules for Dog Owners
* “Leash laws” apply, meaning dogs must be kept on a leash except in marked “dog run” areas (uitrengebied or uitlaatplek). Failure to do so is punishable by a €50 fine.
* You can walk your dog on the beach out of season. During the season dogs are not allowed on the beaches. But there are special beaches for dogs! Look for the nearest one on the Internet.
* You must clean up after your dog everywhere in the city, including the “dog run” areas, punishable by a €75 fine.
* Owners of seeing-eye dogs are not obliged to clean up after their dog.
* Dog owners must carry a “pooper scooper” for this cleaning up at all times. You must be able to show that you have paper, plastic bags or a small scoop with you, punishable by a €50 fine.
* No dogs are allowed in children’s play areas or where posted “verboden voor honden” (dogs prohibited).
Have a great time with your dog in the Netherlands!
Thanks to Geraldine
USA
Anchorage, AK
Veterinarian:
-Cornestone Animal Hospital –
1600 E Tudor Rd – Ste 301
Anchorage, AK 99507
(907) 569-7277
VCA East Anchorage Animal Hospital
2639 Boniface Pkwy
Anchorage, AK 99504
(907) 333-1379
Both clinics are very good and offer complete support for each type of problem or surgery on pets. Prices are much higher than in Italy. To clean the teeth of a small dog terrier type, they $ 400 for surgery + 200 $ for the preliminary examinations, since the surgery is performed under anesthesia.
No problem for getting the certificate of rabies vaccination, which might be asked by U.S. Customs upon exit. You are also given a tag with the date of the vaccination. In Alaska, antirabies vaccination must be done every three years, while in other U.S. states it is required annually, as in Italy. In Hawaii – favored destination of the Alaskans – a quarantine for a few days up to 3 months is requires, whereas in the contiguous states and Alaska it is not.
The animal must be registered at the municipality, in case you lose your dog and find it again, the fine is quite high.
There are stores like PetCo or PetSmart that have all animals and also provide grooming service.
You can also find kennels when you go on vacation, or dog sitters who can completely take care of the dog or other pet from a minimum of half an hour to full time. The cost varies depending of course on the required service.
In Alaska, pets are not allowed in restaurants, bars, department stores, shops, hotels (except where clearly indicated), but there are many parks and places where animals can run free, provided they are able to respond to commands.
The wilderness Alaskano remains the favorite place to bring animals, paying attention to bears, porcupines, mooses and eagles (that point to small animals) and all other wild animals. On the street dogs must be kept on a leash. In reality almost none is, but they are so well trained to respond to commands, that accidents rarely happen.
The climate in winter gets pretty hard but animals seem to adapt very well, my yorkie / terrier goes out willingly with his padded coat even at -18 ° C and does not want to wear boots. On a scale from 1 to 10, Alaska ranks 8 as place for animals.
Thanks to Cecilia
Boulder, CO
There are lots of dogs in Boulder!
On the municipality website you can find all the different rules for dogs, how to register them, their costs and a list of veterinaries.
Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies, and the registration is used both as a confirmation of the vaccine and to identify the dog. Dogs must be walked on a leash, and they can be let run free only in determined areas and if theyr are trained to obey to their owner’s commands in a certain way (and therefore have a Voice and Sight Tag). Some parks have special areas for dogs.
https://www.bouldercolorado.gov/index.php?option=com_content&;view=article&id=13825&Itemid=4657
Thanks to Annaexpat
Miami, FL
Veterinary:
Dr Wise is very nice and supposed to be one of the top pet surgeons. They have two locations, but somehow they are not networking together, which I find a bit inconvenient.
Kowles Animal Clinic
1000 NW 27 Avenue
Miami FL 33125
tel: (305) 649-1234
Snapper Creek
Knowles Animal Clinic
9933 SW 72nd Avenue
Miami FL 33173
But be assured there are plenty of others that might be more conveniently located.
Pets are not cheap but here in Florida, the first thing you want to make sure to do is to get a PET INSURANCE, rarely does one leave a veterinary without a bill of US$ 200 – 300. People spend fortunes on pet medications, care and surgeries. I do not know if Pet insurance exists anywhere else but it is highly recommended here, for a medium size dog you pay US$ 25-60 depending of the coverage. Medications can be conveniently and
better priced ordered on line through www. 1800PetMeds.com. Vets of all sorts, even holistic can be found throughout the city, Dog spas are in fashion, Dog day camps for your dog to socialize, some wellness centers offer acupuncture to your beloved pet.
People love to get specific breeds but I have been surprised how common Adoption is. Animal Shelters open their doors for pets to be adopted and even the pet supermarkets host adoption events.
If you are moving with your Dog to Miami, you might want to buy or rent a house with a yard. Small dogs are often accepted in Apartments but you might be charged a pet rent or extra security deposit. Condominium associations especially on Brickell and downtown Miami, Key Biscayne and Miami Beach allow apartment owners to have a pet but not renters. Nevertheless there is a law that Special needs pets have to be accepted everywhere (where as “special need” is not limited to a guide dog for vision impaired people). KEEP THAT IN MIND, not many realtors know this. There are quite a few dog parks all around Miami and people generally are very pet friendly. The requirements for your dog to play in the dog park: good behavior and a Rabies Tag which needs to be updated every year I believe.
I live very close to the Granada golf course which is a public golf course; people let their beloved pets run free before the golfers arrive. The early mornings are beautiful as well as the night times, safety here in Coral Gables is not an issue like in other parts of town. Taking your pet to the beach is a bit more complicated, most beaches don’t allow them, but a great place for your pets to play in the water is right on the Rickenbacker Causeway which leads to Key Biscayne, the views are awesome and the artificial beach is great, they have done a wonderful job in cleaning it all up and making it nice. The historic Venetian Pool in Coral Gables hosts dog pool and Halloween parties, so your dog will not lack entertainment here in Miami.
If your dog loves liberty and likes to run away with or without his collar and name tag, you might want to consider having an electronic chip with your contact information placed somewhere under your pets skin.
Do not leave your beloved Pet unattended in the car, not just because of the heat here in Miami, but pets are being stolen and used in dog fights, according to a discussion I had with some police officers.
Be aware that Bit bull dogs are banned from Miami, if your dog has a trace of a Pit bull, your neighbor could officially insist on having a DNA test administered on your dog to find out the actual % of Pit Bull in your dog, depending on the % you might then have to give up your beloved pet.
There are quite a few humane societies, animal shelters here in Miami, but only the kind natured and healthy pets are given up for adoption, others have only a few days before they are put to sleep.
Thanks to Nicole
Zimbabwe, Harare
Dogs’ life can be a little restrictive in Harare. However, there are opens spaces and parks to walk your dog and it’s best early morning or late afternoon when it is still cool. Most residential properties are set on large plots – half an acre or more – so most dogs get enough exercise just running around outside. My husband and I still prefer to walk our two golden spaniels (they must be on a leash) as they clearly enjoy taking their daily exercise along our quiet residential road.
Thankfully, there are many privately funded animal welfare organizations still managing to keep afloat, but they rely heavily on the goodwill and generosity of private individuals. Sadly seeing stray dogs is a daily occurrence in Harare. The local vets, SPCA and Friends Foundation will take in strays if they can. Veterinary surgeries are well stocked with all the latest gadgets, foods and toys for all types of pets. Even The Kennel Club of Zimbabwe still manages to hold dog training classes on a regular basis.
Our local vet in Avondale has a grooming service, which our dogs attend regularly. Charles, who clips our dogs, has been doing this for twenty years. Apart from their personal grooming we only really need to visit when the dogs need their annual 7 in one vaccination. Rabies should be administered once every three years after one year of age and shouldn’t be missed otherwise your dog will have to go back every six months.
We got our two spaniels from Cape Town in South Africa and had them transported to Harare when they were 8 weeks old using a reputable pet transporter who was proficient in caring for the puppies in transport and knew all the regulations and documents needed to get our puppies safely to Harare. There was no need to put them in quarantine. A valid rabies certificate, a checkover by a qualified vet and an export certificate were all that were needed. Quarantine regulations only apply if pets are transported from outside the continent. It is also advisable to get the Parvo virus vaccination from 6 weeks old.
Officially, two dogs per premises are allowed otherwise you will need to obtain a license. If you have more than one dog and either of them are female, then the female will need to be spayed. All dogs have to be licensed every January from the town management office and to get this license you should also take a valid rabies certificate and female dogs will need an additional license if they are unspayed.
1. SPCA – Sue Burr Tel : 250246, 0772 400 759
2. Friends Animal Foundation : 0733 816 804, 0772 225 845
3. VAWS : Meryl Harrison : 0914 168 218
Thanks to Avondale Veterinary Surgery, Avondale, Harare 002634 339971/2
Thanks to Sally
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