How to bring a dog into Turkey? - briefly
To bring a dog into Turkey, you need to follow certain regulations and procedures. Firstly, ensure your dog has a valid microchip and is vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entry. Additionally, obtain an EU pet passport or a veterinary certificate issued by an official vet in the country of origin.
How to bring a dog into Turkey? - in detail
Bringing a dog into Turkey requires careful planning and adherence to specific regulations to ensure a smooth process for both you and your pet. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this process:
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Microchipping: Ensure your dog is microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit microchip. This is a mandatory requirement for identification purposes.
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Vaccinations: Your dog must be vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before entering Turkey. It’s crucial to note that the vaccine must be inactivated and the date of administration should be clearly stated on the pet passport or veterinary certificate.
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Pet Passport or Veterinary Certificate: Obtain a European Union Pet Passport or an official third-country veterinary certificate. This document should include details about your dog’s identification, vaccinations, and any treatments against ticks and tapeworms. The certificate must be issued within 10 days of arrival in Turkey.
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Treatment Against Ticks and Tapeworms: Ensure your dog has been treated against ticks and tapeworms between 24 hours and 5 days before entering Turkey. This treatment should be recorded on the pet passport or veterinary certificate.
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Entry Points: Dogs can enter Turkey through approved border points, including airports such as Istanbul Airport (IST), Ankara Esenboga Airport (ESB), and Antalya Airport (AYT). It’s recommended to check with your airline for any specific requirements or restrictions they may have.
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Customs Declaration: Upon arrival, you will need to declare your dog at the customs office. Provide the necessary documents, including the pet passport or veterinary certificate, and pay any applicable fees.
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Quarantine Period: If your dog does not meet all the entry requirements, it may be subject to a quarantine period. To avoid this inconvenience, ensure you have completed all the necessary vaccinations and treatments before traveling.
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Travel Restrictions: Be aware of any specific travel restrictions or additional requirements that might apply based on your dog’s breed or size. Some airlines may have their own set of rules regarding pet transportation.
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Accommodation: Plan your accommodation in advance, as not all hotels and lodgings allow pets. Ensure you choose pet-friendly accommodations to avoid any inconvenience during your stay.
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Health Certificate: If your dog is traveling from a country with a high rabies incidence, you may need an additional health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 72 hours of departure.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and hassle-free journey for both you and your pet when bringing a dog into Turkey. Always double-check the latest regulations with the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your country to stay informed about any recent changes in policies.