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Senegal Pet Import Requirements

Official veterinary regulations, microchip standards, rabies rules, and breed restrictions for entering Senegal.

Last verified December 18, 2024Request a Quote

1. Microchip & Identification

All pets entering Senegal must be microchipped as a mandatory requirement. The microchip must comply with ISO Standard 11784/11785 and be readable by a universal microchip reader. If the microchip does not meet these standards or cannot be read by a universal reader, the owner must provide a compatible microchip reader to ensure the pet's identification can be verified upon entry.

2. Rabies Vaccination

Rabies vaccination is required for pets entering Senegal. However, there are no published guidelines specifying a waiting period after vaccination before entry. The Rabies vaccine must not be older than 1 year at the time of entry. Regarding the type of Rabies vaccine allowed, the specific type is not explicitly published in the regulations. There are no additional restrictions outlined for Rabies vaccinations beyond these requirements

3. Titre Tests & Bloodwork

Senegal has not published any specific test requirements for pets entering the country. Therefore, there are no tests that must be performed before entry, no timelines for when tests should be conducted, and no expiration periods for test results.

4. Quarantine Requirements

Pets meeting all import requirements (including a valid Veterinary Import Permit, Rabies vaccination booklet, and Veterinary Health Certificate) are not subject to quarantine upon arrival in Senegal.
There is no requirement for pets to quarantine at home before entry. However, pets may be subject to inspection by veterinary agents at the port of entry (e.g., Diass Airport) to verify documentation and health compliance. If pets fail to meet these requirements, quarantine measures may apply.
Applicable to only noncompliance with import requirement/ mostly 14 days for Dogs (rabies) and other periods depends on the type of pet. Applicable penalties or fees depend on the quarantine providing centre.

5. Breed Restrictions

Senegal has not explicitly published a comprehensive list of prohibited pet species for import.

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6. Customs & Import Rules

1.    Entry Mode:

  • Pets can enter Senegal as cargo or as excess baggage, depending on the airline's policy.
  • For pets traveling as excess baggage, it is mandatory to book an inspection upon arrival with veterinary agents to ensure compliance with health and documentation requirements.

2.    Customs and Veterinary Clearance:

  • Clearance is mandatory for all pets upon arrival, regardless of entry mode.
  • A licensed customs agent must handle the clearance process and will provide a detailed breakdown of fees at the time of import.
  • It is essential to notify the authorities in advance of the intended date and time of arrival to allow customs and veterinary officials to make prior arrangements, avoiding unnecessary delays.

3.    IATA Live Animal Regulations (LAR):

  • Pets must be transported in containers that comply with IATA LAR standards, ensuring proper size, ventilation, and security for the animal.

4.    Entry Points:

  • Pets typically enter Senegal through Diass Airport, which is equipped for live animal imports and inspections.

5.    Operating Hours:

  • Customs and veterinary services operate 24/7, allowing pets to be cleared regardless of arrival time, including weekends.

6.    Weekend Arrivals:

  • Pets arriving on weekends will still be cleared, as Customs and State Veterinary offices are operational at all times. Rescheduling to weekdays is unnecessary.

7.    Appointments:

  • For pets traveling as excess baggage, you must book an inspection appointment upon arrival with veterinary agents.
  • Informing your licensed customs agent in advance is also recommended to ensure smooth processing.

8.    Customs Requirements:
Documents Required:

  • Veterinary Import Permit
  • Veterinary Health Certificate (issued within 48 hours before departure and endorsed by the competent authority)
  • Rabies vaccination certificate
  • IATA-compliant crate details
  • A licensed customs agent must oversee the clearance process.

9.    Fees, Taxes, and Costs:

  • Import fees vary and will be determined by the licensed customs agent during clearance. These typically include import duties, veterinary inspection fees, and handling charges.

10.    Transit Station/Crates During Clearance:
•    Senegal does not have a dedicated transit station for live animals. Pets remain in their crates while waiting for Customs and Veterinary clearance.
11.    Best Practices for Entry:
•    Ensure all documentation and crate requirements are completed and accurate before departure.
•    Collaborate with a licensed customs agent to streamline the clearance process.
•    Notify authorities in advance of the arrival date and time to avoid delays.
•    Use Diass Airport as the preferred entry point due to its established facilities and procedures for live animal imports.

Common Questions

Senegal pet travel — frequently asked

Are there breed restrictions for pets entering Senegal?

Yes, Senegal enforces breed restrictions for incoming pets. Review the Breed Restrictions section on this page for the specific breeds affected, or contact our team for a breed-specific compliance assessment.

Does Senegal require quarantine for dogs and cats?

Yes, quarantine requirements apply for pets entering Senegal. See the Quarantine Requirements section for holding periods, conditions, and approved facilities.

What documents do I need to bring my pet to Senegal?

Pets entering Senegal typically require an ISO 11784/11785-compliant microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and a health certificate from an accredited veterinarian, plus a rabies titre (antibody) test. Requirements vary by origin country — check each section above for the most current rules.

Popular Airlines

Airlines flying pets to Senegal

Each airline has its own breed restrictions, weight limits, and cargo embargo windows. Check policies before you book.

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