Pet culture in Mauritius

Bringing your pet to Mauritius: A step-by-step process

Certainly, you can bring your beloved dog or cat with you to Mauritius, but it's essential to follow the correct procedures to avoid any unwelcome surprises. To bring your pet to Mauritius, you must obtain an import permit from the Ministry of Agro-Industry, specifically the Veterinary Department, 3 to 6 months before your departure. Without this permit, your pet won't be allowed onto Mauritian territory. It's worth noting that some specific breeds are not allowed in Mauritius, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Terrier, Blue Nose Pit Bull, Red Nose Pit Bull, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, and Boerboel.

When applying to the Ministry's veterinary service, your request should be accompanied by a cover letter that clearly explains the purpose of your visit to Mauritius and the duration of your stay. For expatriates, having a copy of your Occupation Permit or Residence Permit is recommended. You will also need to provide your pet's sterilization certificate and a copy of its vaccination record. Once your application is approved by the committee, you will receive instructions on the necessary procedures. There is an import fee of Rs 500 per pet, along with an extra Rs 500 for veterinary costs. Four days before your pet's arrival in Mauritius, be sure to notify the Ministry via email about the time of arrival and flight number. It's crucial to remember that when your pet arrives at the local airport, you or a designated representative must be present to handle the administrative formalities.

Stray dogs: A significant social issue

A study conducted in 2013 revealed that there are already more than 300,000 stray dogs in the country. The Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW) has faced criticism for its treatment of animals, with allegations that stray dogs were captured and euthanized. This led to a court injunction against the Minister of Agribusiness and the MSAW. Therefore, it's vital to ensure that your pet is well cared for and secure in your backyard, rather than roaming the streets.

Opt for adoption

If you're already in Mauritius and interested in having a pet, consider adoption as a wonderful option. While you can purchase a dog from a pet store, there's nothing easier than adopting an animal in need. On social platforms like Facebook, you can find compassionate individuals who take in stray dogs and advocate for their prompt adoption. La Meute de Zion and Paws Mauritius are organizations working towards the welfare of stray dogs. Alternatively, you can explore the island to encounter dogs without homes.

Going out with your pets

Once you've welcomed your pet into your life, it's essential to take them out for walks. If your dog is leashed, you can stroll through your neighborhood or even along the beach, but ensure you have full control and that your pet doesn't pose any risks to the public. Keep in mind that national parks and shopping malls do not permit pets on their premises. Also, when dining out, pets are generally not allowed, similar to regulations abroad.