How to export a dog to Turkey? - briefly
To export a dog to Turkey, you need to comply with several key requirements set by the Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Ensure your dog has a valid rabies vaccination, is microchipped, and has undergone a blood test for rabies antibodies at least 30 days after vaccination. Additionally, you must obtain an official health certificate from a licensed veterinarian.
How to export a dog to Turkey? - in detail
Exporting a dog to Turkey involves several steps and adherence to specific regulations. This process ensures the health, safety, and welfare of both the animal and the public. Here is a comprehensive guide detailing the necessary procedures:
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Health Certificate: The first step is to obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian. This certificate must confirm that the dog is in good health and has received all required vaccinations, including rabies. The certificate should be issued no more than 48 hours before departure.
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Microchipping: It is mandatory for the dog to be microchipped. The microchip should comply with ISO standards (ISO 11784 or Annex A to ISO 11785). This ensures that the animal can be identified throughout its journey and upon arrival in Turkey.
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Rabies Vaccination: The dog must have a valid rabies vaccination. For puppies younger than three months, a rabies vaccine is not required. However, they must receive their first rabies shot at least 21 days before departure.
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Blood Test for Rabies Antibody: If the dog is traveling from a country that is not recognized as rabies-free by Turkey, a blood test to measure the rabies antibody level (titer test) must be conducted. This test should be performed at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination and at least three months before departure. The titer level must be at least 0.5 IU/ml.
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Turkish Embassy or Consulate Approval: After obtaining all necessary health documents, they need to be submitted to the Turkish Embassy or Consulate for approval. This step ensures that the documents meet Turkey’s import requirements.
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Airline Requirements: Check with your chosen airline regarding their specific pet travel policies. Some airlines may require additional documentation or have restrictions on pet transport, such as size and type of crate.
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Travel Crate: The dog must be transported in an approved travel crate that meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards. The crate should be large enough for the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
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Arrival in Turkey: Upon arrival at a Turkish airport, the dog will undergo a customs inspection. Ensure all documents are readily available for presentation to the customs officials.
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Quarantine Period: Depending on the country of origin, there may be a quarantine period required by Turkish authorities. This is typically 21 days and is intended to ensure that the dog does not pose any health risks.
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Registration with Local Authorities: After completing any necessary quarantine, register your dog with the local municipality or veterinary services in Turkey. This step ensures compliance with local regulations and facilitates future travel within the country.
By following these detailed steps, you can successfully export a dog to Turkey while ensuring the animal's well-being and adhering to all necessary regulations.