In order to import pets into the Bahamas it is necessary to obtain a permit from the Ministry of Agriculture, Trade and Industry. A form can be obtained from the Ministry’s website and the application for the permit will involve a small fee. Once the permit has been issued it is only valid for 90 days and travel must take place within that time period. If it does not, then a new permit will have to be applied for.

If taking a pet from the US to the Bahamas there are a number of regulations which must be followed. The animal should not be younger than six months of age and have certification that proves they have been vaccinated against rabies. A health certificate from the veterinarian should also be provided to prove that the animals are in general good health and must be issued immediately prior to travelling to the country. There are a number of diseases against which the animal must have been immunised and the list can be obtained from the Ministry website. If all of the criteria are met a period of quarantine is not normally required although all documentation will be checked upon arrival into the country.

The Bahamas is not included in the pet travel scheme, so if travelling from the UK with a pet entry may be easily obtained into the country under similar rules as for those from the US, but if you return to the UK a period of quarantine will be required. An import duty may also be payable if not travelling from the US or Canada and some of the islands may require dog owners to purchase a licence. Details of licences can be obtained from the local authorities. Different regulations may apply for animals from different countries and it is a good idea to talk to the Bahamian embassy in your home country to establish which rules will apply to you.

In the larger towns there are pet stores which are readily stocked with supplies, although on some of the smaller islands it may be more difficult to buy food specially made for animals and it may be necessary to improvise. Veterinary care is also in short supply on some of the islands, and is often limited to a visiting vet from another island just one or two days a week, though it should be easy enough to take a pet which requires treatment to another island.

Anybody who arrives on the islands without the relevant documentation for their pets will not be allowed to enter the country.