The Cayman Islands is a British Overseas Territory located in the western Caribbean Sea. It is a popular destination for tourists, expats, and retirees who are looking for a tropical island paradise. If you’re planning on moving to the Caymans with your furry friend, it’s essential to know the requirements for importing your pet.
Pet Importation Rules
The Caymans allow the import of pets, but there are restrictions on the types of pets you can bring. The Caymans follow the guidelines set out by the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), which means that certain dog breeds are prohibited from entering the country. The prohibited breeds include Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, and Fila Brasileiro.
Vaccination Requirements in the Caymans
All dogs and cats must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate. The vaccination must be given at least 30 days before travel but no more than 12 months.
Importation Application Procedure in the Caymans
To import a pet to the Caymans, you need to obtain an import permit from the Department of Agriculture. You’ll need to provide the following documents:
- A copy of your pet’s rabies vaccination certificate
- A veterinary certificate of health
- A copy of your passport
You’ll also need to pay a fee of CI$50 for the import permit.
Quarantine Rules in the Caymans
A period of quarantine is required for all pets entering the Caymans. The quarantine period is a minimum of 10 days for dogs and cats. During the quarantine period, your pet will be housed at the Department of Agriculture’s Animal Reception Centre (ARC), where they will be monitored by a veterinarian.
International Travel Scheme for Pets
The Caymans are part of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS), which allows pets to travel between certain countries without the need for quarantine. However, the scheme only applies to dogs, cats, and ferrets, and the Caymans are not part of the scheme for pets traveling from the UK.
Pet Licenses in the Caymans
Pet owners in the Caymans are required to obtain a license for their pets. You’ll need to provide proof of rabies vaccination and pay a fee of CI$15 per pet.
Resources in the Caymans
The Cayman Islands Department of Agriculture has a useful website with information on importing pets. You can find the website at https://doa.gov.ky/animals/pet-import-export.