Pets in Turkey

Some Turkish families especially children seem to adore pets and it would seem that pets are becoming more common feature in Turkish homes. We can easily understand it by the number of pet shops, pensions, dog farms, dog training centres, animal hospitals and veterinary clinics that appear on almost every street.

When buying a pet from a pet shop, pay particular attention to the animals' health and nutrition. Your best bet is to purchase your pet from a reliable pet shop, and one that preferably has been recommended to you from another satisfied customer. It could be better if you prefer well-known dog farms which can offer certificate to you.

If you wish to bring your pet with you in Turkey, or to get a new one over here, there are a few important things you should know. First of all, we suggest that you check with your landlord or a competent person in the building to ensure that pets are permitted in your new flat.

For those who wish to bring domestic animals into the country the following are required:

A 'Certificate of Origin' giving the health record of the animal.

A 'Certificate of Health', issued not more than 15 days before the animal's entry into the country, stating that the animal is healthy and has been vaccinated against rabies.

If you have an official certificate, you may bring one cat, one bird, one dog and 10 aquarium fish into the country.

If you wish to leave Turkey with your pet, be sure to consult the consulates or embassies of your transit and final destination countries for their regulations regarding pets.