India Announces One-Time Relaxation for Import of Pet Dogs and Cats from War-Hit Middle East Countries

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NEW DELHI: The Government of India has issued a special one-time relaxation to facilitate the import of pet dogs and cats accompanying stranded Indian nationals returning from war-affected Middle East countries.

The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, through its Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, stated that the decision has been taken considering the extraordinary circumstances in conflict-hit regions, where completing pre-export formalities may not be possible.

Under the Live-Stock Importation Act, 1898, India regulates the import of animals to prevent the spread of infectious and contagious diseases. Standard procedures for importing live animals were previously notified in June 2014, with updated Standard Operating Procedures issued in July 2020.

Key Conditions for the Relaxation

Pre-Import Requirements:

The pet must have been residing with the owner for at least one month.

The owner must provide vaccination records, pet passport, or pet book. Delayed or pending vaccinations may be considered.

If pets are brought from neighbouring countries, owners are advised to obtain veterinary checks from the respective authorities if available.

Post-Arrival Procedures:

Pets with valid veterinary health certificates and vaccination records will receive clearance after document verification and clinical examination at the airport by Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS).

Pets without complete vaccination records or with delayed vaccinations (up to 15 days) will be vaccinated for rabies at the port of entry. The cost will be borne by the owner.

Pets without any veterinary health or vaccination certificates will also undergo rabies vaccination upon arrival.

Quarantine Costs:

If any abnormal health findings are detected during examination, the pet will be quarantined. All related expenses—including quarantine charges, vaccinations, and medications—must be paid by the owner as per applicable charges.

The government clarified that this facilitation does not apply to other import requirements governed by agencies such as the Directorate General of Foreign Trade or Customs, which will take their own decisions as applicable.

Officials emphasized that this measure is temporary and situation-specific, and it should not be treated as a precedent for future cases. The decision has been taken in view of the rapidly changing and uncertain conditions in the region.