Paws Journey - Pet relocation now demands careful planning
Pet Relocation requires strategic planning amid shifting airline and regulatory landscapes
TDT | Manama
Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com
For pet owners travelling to India and other destinations, relocation at this time has become a more detailed process, with airline availability, documentation requirements, and evolving travel conditions all playing a role in planning.
Speaking to The Daily Tribune, Venetia Dsouza, owner of Bahrain Pet Sitter and Aeropaws Consultancy, which supports pet rescue efforts and assists with pet relocations in and out of Bahrain, said that while travel to India is possible, it remains dependent on limited airline options and regulatory requirements in the current scenario.
She explained that the process begins with an Annexure form for Indian import clearance, which must be signed by a licensed veterinarian confirming vaccination, microchipping, and fitness for travel.
This is followed by obtaining a Saudi import and export permit for travellers transiting through the region, which typically takes around seven days to process, although expedited services may be available for an additional fee. The standard fee, however, is around BD 50 for each permit, totalling approximately BD 100. While the permit is valid for 30 days, transit stays are generally limited to around 10 days, making careful scheduling essential.
Venetia notes, “passengers must directly confirm pet transport availability with airlines, while ensuring compliance with airline-specific requirements before booking tickets and securing visas. The last step would be getting the annexure form and Bahrain export permit signed by the Animal Health Directorate. Once approved, the documents are valid for a short window of around 10 days, requiring precise coordination before departure. Pets permitted in the cabin must travel in approved soft carriers, with additional airline charges to be paid at the airport counter. Upon arrival in India, in-cabin pets are generally not subject to customs duties.”
“For return travel from India, a rabies antibody blood test is required, with results taking around three weeks and remaining valid for up to one year. Additional forms are also required and are typically handled with guidance from an agent.”
While airline options for in-cabin pet relocation to India remain limited at the moment, “cargo transport remains an alternative option, though it is significantly more expensive, with costs ranging between approximately BD 700 and BD 1,000 per pet depending on the airline, route, and size of the animal,” she further added.
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