Hey everyone,
Pets are an integral part of a lot of families. So much so that they would never consider moving abroad without them. Before doing so, it would be important to know the pet culture in Kenya just to make sure that their little “expets” feel welcomed in their new homes. Would you give our expats-to-be an insight of what it is like to have a pet in Kenya by answering the following questions?
What part do pets play in society in Kenya? Are they generally accepted in rentals and public spaces more generally?
Is it common for families to have pets?
What animal is the most often kept as pets? Are there some animals that cannot be kept as pets? Do some animals have specific significations when kept as pets?
How about the infrastructure needed to cater for pets? Can you find everything you need for your pet in terms of pet food, veterinary services, accessories, pet grooming etc...?
Do people generally spend a lot of money on their pets?
Please share your experience,
Priscilla
The pet culture in Kenya
Kenyans are not into pets in the same way as some western cultures are. Animals tend to be kept for a purpose, so people have dogs for guard duty, cats to keep mice and rats under control, and rabbits for food, for example. Dogs tend to be kept outside, for example. In Nairobi, it is increasingly likely that someone might keep a dog as a house pet. It's very common for people to keep dogs - they are arguably the most common 'pet'.
Dogs are very expensive to buy, particularly breeds such as German Shepherd. Cats are usually given away.
You certainly won't see dogs being walked in parks and so on. On the whole animals won't be welcome in rented property - not inside anyway, but that isn't unusual in lots of places.
Whereas Kenyans might struggle to understand the sentimentality of people concerning their pets, they are tolerant of other peoples behaviour and views.
There are lots of animals you cant keep as pets and these are mainly animals classed as wild and which are protected. In fact its illegal to have skulls, heads etc too.
Pet infrastructure; a lot of Kenyan will feed dogs on things like rice, vegetables and local pet food, which is available in large frozen sausages. Tinned pet food is very expensive as are specific pet foods such a dog biscuits - food is widely available in supermarkets though.
Lots of vets, but try and get one through a personal recommendation, as standards (and prices) vary.
Hi Pets are allowed in almost all house. But check before moving into a house. The appartment may not allow it.
Should you choose to import/export your furry family member(s) beware of officials attempting to 'extract' money from you. Even with all your paperwork in correct order, there will always be more to pay... They are not above using emotional blackmail to do so.
Other than that, be aware that the Kenyan approach to animals is different to most western countries. As stated above, they tend to be considered as working animals.
There are plenty of 'vets' and Vets around, so drive around, have a look and make your choice.
Pet food is, usually, widely available, be it local or imported.
HTH!
C
Hi ! Does anyone need a horseriding partner or someone to exercise: care for your horse!
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