If you’re planning to move to Russia with your pet, you may be wondering about the process of importing your furry friend. Russia does allow the import of pets, but there are certain restrictions and requirements that you need to know. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about bringing your pet to Russia.
Types of Pets Allowed in Russia
In general, Russia allows the import of cats and dogs, as well as other small animals such as birds and hamsters. However, there are certain restrictions on which types of pets you can bring into the country. For example, certain breeds of dogs, including Pit Bulls, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and Japanese Tosa, are not allowed in Russia.
It is essential to check the list of prohibited breeds and species before making any travel arrangements. Any attempt to import banned breeds can lead to confiscation, fines, and legal action.
Vaccination Requirements for Pets
All cats and dogs entering Russia must have a valid vaccination certificate. This certificate should indicate that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days but no more than one year before the arrival date. Pets must also have a microchip implanted, which is a requirement for identification purposes. The microchip should be ISO-compliant and be readable by the authorized scanners available in Russia.
Pets must also be dewormed, and this should be recorded in the pet’s health book or passport. Furthermore, dogs must be vaccinated against distemper, parvovirus, and hepatitis.
Application Procedure for Importing Pets to Russia
The process of importing a pet into Russia can be complicated, so it is essential to start the process as early as possible. The first step is to contact the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor), which is responsible for overseeing the import of pets into Russia.
To import your pet, you will need to provide several documents, including:
- A valid vaccination certificate for rabies
- A veterinary health certificate
- A copy of your passport
- A copy of your pet’s microchip registration
- An import permit issued by Rosselkhoznadzor
You should apply for the import permit well in advance as the process can take several weeks to complete. Once you have received the permit, you can make arrangements for your pet’s travel.
Quarantine Period
Pets entering Russia may be subject to a period of quarantine. The length of quarantine varies depending on the country of origin, the pet’s vaccination status, and the type of animal. If your pet requires quarantine, you will need to make arrangements for their care during this time.
The quarantine facility in Russia is managed by Rosselkhoznadzor. The duration of quarantine varies between 30 and 180 days, depending on the country of origin and the pet’s health status.
International Travel Schemes for Pets
Russia is not part of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), which allows pets to travel between certain countries without the need for quarantine. However, Russia has its own scheme called the Pet Passport, which allows pets to travel between member states without the need for quarantine.
If you are traveling to Russia from a country that is part of the Pet Passport scheme, you will need to provide additional documentation, such as a Pet Passport.
Obtaining a Pet License in Russia
All pets in Russia must be registered with the local authorities. To obtain a license, you will need to provide a copy of your pet’s vaccination certificate, microchip registration, and a copy of your ID. Additionally, you must provide proof of payment of the annual license fee, which varies depending on the type of animal.
In addition to obtaining a pet license, pet owners in Russia must also comply with certain regulations, such as keeping their pets on a leash in public places and cleaning up after them. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines or legal action.
Government Website for Importing Pets
If you are planning to import a pet into Russia, it is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest regulations and requirements. Rosselkhoznadzor has a dedicated section on pet travel, including information on importing pets, vaccination requirements, and quarantine regulations.
You can visit the Rosselkhoznadzor website at http://www.fsvps.ru/fsvps/importExport/animals.html to learn more about importing your pet to Russia.
Importing a pet to Russia involves a complex process that requires careful planning and preparation. You will need to comply with vaccination requirements, obtain an import permit, and possibly arrange for a period of quarantine.
While the process can be challenging, Rosselkhoznadzor provides clear guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of pets in Russia. By following these guidelines and staying up-to-date with the latest requirements, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free process when importing your pet to Russia.