Crossing Borders with Pets: A Local’s Guide!

As a pet owner, travelling can be a daunting experience, especially when crossing borders. If you’re planning a trip from South Africa to Namibia (or vice versa) with your furry companions, it’s essential to understand the necessary procedures to ensure a smooth journey. Since March 2020, specific requirements have been established for bringing dogs and cats across the border that every pet owner must follow.

Preparing for Your Journey

Step 1: Veterinary Check-Up and Permit

Before embarking on your adventure, visit your local vet for a thorough check-up of your pets. During this appointment, the vet will fill out an Inter-territorial Movement Permit. It’s crucial that all your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, especially the rabies vaccination, and that your pets are microchipped.

Step 2: State Vet Approval

After obtaining the permit from your vet, you need to take it to your nearest state vet for approval. In the Western Cape, the following state vets can assist you:

• Cape Town State Veterinary Services – Cape Town
• Paarl State Veterinary Services – Paarl
• Stellenbosch State Veterinary Services – Stellenbosch
• George State Veterinary Services – George

The state vet will review the permit, and if everything is in order, they will sign and stamp it, allowing you to travel with your pets.

Travelling from Namibia to South Africa

You must pay the Inter-territorial Movement Permit fee via EFT when travelling back from Namibia to South Africa. This fee is currently set at N$ 80, but it is advised to double-check this rate as it can change without prior notice. You’ll need to visit the vet’s office to obtain the banking details for the EFT, which are conveniently listed at the door.
Be sure to bring your proof of payment to the state veterinary office in Windhoek and remember to take your dogs with you, as they will need to check your pets’ papers and take their temperatures before providing the necessary stamp and signature on your permit.

Patience is key during this process, as it can take some time depending on how busy they are that day. It’s best to go early in the morning to avoid longer waiting periods, ensuring your visit runs smoothly and your travel preparations stay on track.

Upon arrival in South Africa, a fee of ZAR 290 is payable at the border to facilitate your pets’ entry. While this fee is subject to change, it can be conveniently paid by card at the border.

Important Note on Validity of Permits

Once your Inter-territorial Movement Permit has been signed and stamped, the border needs to be crossed within 7 days. This permit is then valid for 30 days (from the date of issue). If your travel plans exceed this timeframe, you will need to obtain a new permit to remain compliant with travel regulations.

Midway Stops: Where to Stay

Travelling with pets can be tiring, so it’s advisable to plan an overnight stay halfway through your journey. If you’re coming from the Western Cape heading to Namibia, consider these dog-friendly accommodations:

• Wit Huis – A charming stopover that welcomes pets and offers comfortable rooms. Furry kids stay for free.
• Grünau Chalets – Known for their pet-friendly policies, these rooms provide a great resting point for you and your furry friends, with a charge of N$ 50 per dog
• Grünau Country Hotel – This welcoming hotel also allows pets to stay over, charging N$ 200 per dog, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your furry companions.

Upon your return trip, Sperrgebiet Lodge is another excellent pet-friendly option, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your pets.

Ensuring a Comfortable Journey

If your dog gets anxious during travel, consult your vet about medications that can help ease their nerves. Administering these medications before your journey can make the trip more comfortable for your four-legged friends, allowing for a more enjoyable travel experience for everyone.

Rest Stops and Safety Tips

When travelling on the N7 (South African side), it’s important to note that the rest stops are very close to the road. If you’re travelling with dogs that get frightened easily, it’s safer to drive off the N7 and up any district road, travel 1 or 2 km away from the highway, and stop there to allow your pets to stretch their legs in a safer environment.

On the Namibian side, along the B1 highway, the rest stops are located a bit further off the road, but given the heavy truck traffic, it’s also recommended to take a district road off the highway before letting your pets out. This will ensure their safety and your peace of mind.

Plan for a Pawsitively Smooth Journey with Your Pets

By preparing well in advance, securing the necessary permits, and choosing suitable accommodations, you can ensure a pleasant journey for you and your furry companions. Whether you’re headed to the breathtaking landscapes of Namibia or returning home, your pets deserve to travel comfortably and safely.

Happy travels and may your adventures with your four-legged friends be filled with joy and exploration!