PET TRAVEL
Step 3: Know the Requirements for your Destination Namibia Typically requires:
• Inter-territorial Movement Permit
• Valid vaccination certificate
Travellers should also confirm South Africa’ s re-entry requirements before returning home, including any applicable import administration processes or fees.
Botswana Typically requires:
• Health Certificate
• Inter-territorial Movement Permit
• Vaccination Certificate
Botswana applies strict rabies regulations and travellers should double-check vaccine validity periods before travel.
Zimbabwe Typically requires:
• Vaccination Certificate
• State Vet Health Certificate
• Vehicle and trailer documentation checks can also be strict at some border posts
Lesotho and Eswatini Generally considered the simplest regional crossings for pet travel, usually requiring:
• Vaccination Certificate
• Movement Permit
Border delays can still occur during peak holiday periods.
Mozambique Mozambique often has more complex import requirements than other neighbouring countries and travellers should begin preparations well in advance. Requirements may include:
• Vaccination Certificate
• Import permit from Mozambican veterinary authorities
Step 4: Prepare for the Border Crossing A few practical realities make Southern African border crossings much easier:
• Keep original documents easily accessible. Border officials often want originals, not copies.
• If you’ re driving a rented or financed vehicle, carry a letter of authority from the rental company or your bank, together with the vehicle registration papers.
• South African vehicles travelling cross-border should display a ZA sticker.
• Some border posts include vehicle disinfection stations as part of foot-and-mouth disease control measures. These can be noisy or stressful for pets, so keep dogs calm and securely restrained.
• South African passport holders generally do not require visas for short tourist stays in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Lesotho or Eswatini, though entry requirements can change.
Step 5: Keep your Pet Safe in the Vehicle Even without specific restraint laws, travelling safely with pets matters enormously. An unrestrained dog can become a serious hazard during sudden braking or an accident, both for the animal and passengers. Animal welfare organisations recommend:
• A crash-tested harness attached to a seatbelt system
• A secured travel crate large enough for your dog to stand and turn around comfortably
• Regular water and rest stops every two to three hours
• Never leaving pets unattended in parked vehicles
The classic“ bakkie dog” may be part of South African road-trip culture, but animal welfare organisations strongly advise against transporting dogs unsecured in the back of a vehicle.
82 | SPRING 2026 • rovesa. co. za