• Issued by the national veterinary authorities of the exporting country
• Certifies the absence of contagious diseases
• Validity of 30 days maximum

Import permit

• Request to be made to the Mauritian Ministry of Agriculture
• Processing time: 2 to 4 weeks
• Cost: approximately 500 Mauritian rupees (MUR)

Mandatory vaccinations

For dogs:

• Rabies (mandatory, minimum 21 days before departure)
• Distemper
• Contagious canine hepatitis
• Parvovirus
• Parainfluenza
• Leptospirosis

For cats:

• Rabies (mandatory, minimum 21 days before departure)
• Feline typhus (panleukopenia)
• Coryza (rhinotracheitis, calicivirus)
• Feline leukemia (recommended)

Required laboratory tests

Rabies serology test

• Mandatory for all domestic carnivores
• To be carried out at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination
• Laboratory approved by the OIE (World Organisation for Animal Health)
• Antibody level ≥ 0.5 IU/ml

Other analyses

• Internal and external parasite screening test
• Complete clinical examination by a licensed veterinarian

Quarantine procedure

Mandatory quarantine

• Duration: 6 months minimum for dogs and cats
• Location: Curepipe Quarantine Station or approved facility
• Average cost: 15,000 to 25,000 MUR per month depending on the services

Accommodation conditions

• Individual air-conditioned enclosures
• Daily veterinary care
• Supervised exercise and socialization
• Owner visits permitted (restricted hours)

Quarantine Reduction

In certain exceptional cases, quarantine may be reduced to 3 months if:

• The animal comes from a rabies-free country
• All documents are in order
• Additional tests favorable

Transport and logistics

Recommended Airlines

• Air Mauritius (specialized cargo service)
• Emirates (stopover in Dubai with animal care)
• Turkish Airlines (Istanbul hub with pet facilities)
• Air France (via Reunion, trained staff)

Travel preparation

IATA transport box

• Dimensions in accordance with international standards
• Adequate ventilation on at least 3 sides
• Secure closure without possibility of accidental opening
• Full labeling with contact details

Travel documents

• Pet passport or international health record
• Certificate of good health (less than 10 days)
• Proof of flight booking
• Contact details of the destination veterinarian

Tips for comfort

• Get the animal used to its crate several weeks beforehand
• 12-hour fast before departure (water allowed)
• Familiar cushion or blanket
• Avoid tranquilizers (risks at altitude)

Legal obligations

• Registration : Mandatory since October 1, 2025 with the MSAW (see details below)

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Local adoption in Mauritius

Shelters and associations

Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW)

• Location : Rose Hill
• Services: Shelter, adoption, sterilization, veterinary care
• Contact : +230 454 5813
• Animals available: Dogs, cats, sometimes rabbits
• Procedure : Pre-adoption visit, interview, post-adoption follow-up

Animal Welfare Society (AWS)

• Location : Four Bornes
• Specialties: Stray animal recovery, sterilization program
• Contact : +230 427 8945
• Services: Adoption, veterinary advice, awareness

PAWS Mauritius

• Focus: Abandoned or abused dogs and cats
• Approach : Temporary foster families before final adoption
• Location : Quatre Bornes and regions
• Contact : Active Facebook page with regular updates

Casela Wildlife Sanctuary

• Special feature: Exotic and farm animals
• Programs: Farm Animal Sponsorship and Adoption
• Location : West of the island, Cascavelle

Adoption process

Standard steps

1. Initial contact: Call or visit the shelter
2. Quiz : Lifestyle Assessment and Motivations
3. Home visit: Checking reception conditions
4. Trial period: 15 days with shelter monitoring
5. Final adoption: Signing the contract and paying the fees

Eligibility criteria

• Adapted accommodation (garden for large dogs)
• Financial stability to cover veterinary costs
• Commitment to the animal's lifespan
• Experience or training in animal care (sometimes)

Adoption costs

• Dogs: 1,500 to 3,000 MUR
• Cats: 1,000 to 2,500 MUR
• Usually includes: Sterilization, basic vaccines, deworming, microchip

Street Animals and Rescue

Local issues

Mauritius has a large population of stray animals, particularly:

• Dogs on beaches and tourist areas
• Cats in urban centers
• Animals abandoned in the sugar cane fields

Rescue actions

If you find an animal in distress:

1. Contact a shelter or veterinarian immediately
2. Secure the animal without stressing it
3. Check for an ID chip
4. Take pictures and post on dedicated Facebook groups

Useful Facebook groups:

• “Lost and Found Pets Mauritius”
• "Animal Lovers Mauritius"
• “Adopt Don’t Shop Mauritius”

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Specific regulations by type of animal

Dogs

Prohibited or restricted breeds

Certain breeds considered dangerous are subject to restrictions:

• American Pit Bull Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Bull Terrier
• Rottweiler (special permit required)

Legal obligations

• Registration : Mandatory since October 1, 2025 with the MSAW

  IMPORTANT NEW MEASURE – October 2025
  From the October 1, 2025Registration of all dogs becomes mandatory in Mauritius according to Article 31 of the Animal Welfare Act. This new regulation will be administered by the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW).

  Objectives of this measure:

  • Better control of the dog population on the island
  • Promoting owner responsibility
  • Reducing cruelty to animals
  • Limiting health risks associated with stray dogs

  What this means for you:

  • All dog owners will need to register their pet with the MSAW
  • This requirement is in addition to the import procedures for dogs coming from abroad.
  • The MSAW will provide specific details (fees, required documents).
  • For more information, please contact MSAW at +230 454 5813

  This obligation applies to both imported dogs and those adopted locally.

• Rabies vaccination: Mandatory annual
• Annual license: 200-500 MUR depending on the municipality
• Mandatory leash: In all public places
• Picking up droppings: Fine for violation

Authorized spaces

• Beaches: Generally prohibited except in specific areas (check locally)
• Public parks: Allowed on leash
• Public transport: Allowed in a carrier for small dogs

Cats

Freedom of movement

• No special restrictions for domestic cats
• Sterilization recommendation to limit reproduction
• Identification by electronic chip recommended

Wildlife protection

• Obligation to wear a collar with a bell (protection of endemic birds)
• Indoor keeping recommended in conservation areas

New Companion Animals (NAC)

Authorized species

• Rabbits: Possible importation and local adoption
• Guinea pigs: Authorized with health certificate
• Domestic birds: Canaries, parakeets (restrictions on exotic species)
• Aquarium fish: Common species allowed

Prohibited species

• Venomous reptiles
• Primates
• Big cats
• Invasive species listed by the ministry

Special procedures

For NACs, additional authorizations may be required:

• CITES permits for protected species
• Certificate of origin and captivity
• Quarantine adapted according to the species

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Costs and budget to plan for

Importing an animal

Pre-trip costs

• Veterinary certificates: 200-500 EUR
• Laboratory tests: 150-300 EUR
• Import permit: 15 EUR (500 MUR)
• IATA transport box: 100-400 EUR depending on size
• Vaccinations: 80-150 EUR

Transport

• Air freight: 800-2000 EUR depending on origin and size
• Transport insurance: 50-150 EUR (recommended)
• Customs formalities: 100-200 EUR

Quarantine

• 6 months of quarantine: 18,000-36,000 MUR (450-900 EUR)
• Veterinary care: Usually included
• Owner visits: Personal transport

Indicative total budget

• Dog/cat from Europe: 2,500-4,500 EUR
• From South Africa: 1,800-3,200 EUR
• From Australia: 3,000-5,500 EUR

Local adoption

Adoption fees

• Official shelters: 1,000-3,000 MUR
• Private adoptions: 500-2,000 MUR
• Purebred animals: 5,000-15,000 MUR

First aid

• Complete veterinary examination: 800-1500 MUR
• Additional vaccinations: 500-1,000 MUR
• Deworming and antiparasitic treatments: 300-600 MUR
• Sterilization (if not done): 2,000-4,000 MUR

Annual costs of ownership

Veterinary care

• Routine consultation: 600-1200 MUR
• Annual vaccinations: 800-1500 MUR
• Deworming (4x/year): 400-800 MUR
• Antiparasitics: 1,200-2,400 MUR
• EMERGENCIES : Budget 10,000-20,000 MUR

Food

• Average quality kibble: 500-800 MUR/month for cat, 800-1,500 MUR/month for dog
• Premium food: +50-100% of the base cost
• Treats and supplements: 200-400 MUR/month

Accessories and maintenance

• Collar, leash, harness: 300-1000 MUR
• Basket, cushion: 500-2,000 MUR
• Toys : 200-800 MUR
• Professional grooming: 800-2,000 MUR/session

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Veterinary Services in Mauritius

Main veterinary clinics

Dr. François Veterinary Clinic

• Location : Port-Louis, Quatre Bornes
• Services: General medicine, surgery, emergency 24/7
• Specialties: Medical imaging, laboratory analyses
• Contact : +230 212 3456
• LANGUAGES : French, English, Creole

Mauritius Veterinary Association Clinic

• Location : Rose Hill
• Services: Consultation, vaccination, sterilization
• Special features: Solidarity rates, community programs
• Contact : +230 454 7890

Animal Care Center

• Location : Grand Bay (North)
• Services: Preventive medicine, veterinary dermatology
• Customers: Mainly European residents and tourists
• Contact : +230 263 8520

South Veterinary Clinic

• Location : Mahébourg (South-East)
• Services: Consultations, basic surgery
• Benefits : Close to residential area, easy parking
• Contact : +230 631 9074

Specialized services

National Veterinary Laboratory

• Location : Reduced (Center)
• Services: Blood tests, parasitological examinations, necropsies
• Time limit : 24-48 hours for routine analyses
• Pricing: Official, cheaper than private

Daycare and emergency services

• Dr. Kumar Emergency Vet: +230 5729 3841 (24/7)
• Animal Hospital Express: +230 269 7530 (nights and weekends)
• Increased cost: +50% of normal rates in emergencies

Specialized care

Veterinary dermatology

Common problems in tropical climates:

• Allergic dermatitis
• Fungal infections
• Skin parasites
• Specialist: Dr. Patel (consultations by appointment)

Ophthalmology

• Dr. Chen: Eye specialist, cataract surgery
• Consultation: Tuesdays and Thursdays, Quatre Bornes

Animal behavior

• Ms. Sarah Duclos: Certified Dog Trainer
• Services: Education, behavioral rehabilitation
• Travel: At home possible

Veterinary pharmacies

Products available locally

• Vaccines imported from Europe (Merial, MSD)
• Antiparasitics: Frontline, Advantix, Seresto
• Basic medications: antibiotics, anti-inflammatories
• Therapeutic food: Hill's, Royal Canin

Importation of medicines

For specific treatments not available:

• Veterinary prescription required
• Order lead time: 2-4 weeks
• Price increase: 30-50%

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Practical advice and adaptation

Adaptation to tropical climate

Climate challenges

Heat and humidity:

• Temperatures 25-32°C all year round
• Humidity 70-85%
• Heatstroke risk for animals with dense fur

Adaptation solutions:

• Regular mowing during the southern summer (Nov-Apr)
• Fresh water points always available
• Shaded areas in the garden
• Early morning or evening walks
• Air conditioning or fans recommended

Hurricane season (December-April)

• Plan to stock up on food and medicine
• Identify safe shelters for the animal
• Updating ID chips
• Evacuation plan if necessary

Parasites and tropical diseases

Common external parasites

Ticks:

• Widespread, vectors of disease
• Recommended daily inspection
• Repellents: Seresto, Bravecto

Chips:

• Rapid proliferation in wet weather
• Environmental treatment required
• Specialty shampoos available locally

Mosquitoes and sandflies:

• Risk of leishmaniasis (rare but present)
• Special animal repellents
• Mosquito nets for outdoor niches

Internal parasites

Intestinal worms:

• Deworming every 3 months
• Recommended broad spectrum products
• Biannual stool analyses

Heartworm:

• Transmitted by mosquitoes
• Mandatory monthly prevention
• Annual screening tests

Food and water

Water quality

• Tap water generally safe
• Filtration recommended in certain regions
• Bottled water if in doubt about the quality

Dietary adaptation

Availability :

• Major international brands available
• Prices increased by 20-40% compared to Europe
• Online ordering possible (Pet World Mauritius)

Local food:

• Avoid “homemade” food without veterinary supervision
• Beware of leftover curry (dangerous spices)
• Local fruits: mango, papaya in small quantities OK

Socialization and exercise

Socialization spaces

Dog Parks:

• Company Garden (Port-Louis): Demarcated area
• Green Plain: Informal space in the morning
• Beau Bassin: Community Land

Authorized beaches:

• Check local regulations (change seasonally)
• Usually: very early morning or late afternoon
• Always on a leash and pick up after yourself

Activities and services

Boarding and care:

• Pet Paradise (Flic en Flac): +230 453 8967
• Animal Lodge (Quatre Bornes): +230 427 5432
• Home services via classified ads

Grooming:

• Salon Toutou (Rose Hill): Complete grooming
• Mobile grooming: Home service available
• Recommended frequency: Every 6-8 weeks

Integration into the community

Groups and associations

Mauritius Dog Owners Group (Facebook):

• 3,500+ active members
• Exchange of advice, mutual care
• Events and group walks

Cat Lovers Mauritius:

• Specializing in cats
• Adoption and care advice
• Foster Family Network

Annual Events

• Pet Expo Mauritius: September, Swami Vivekananda Centre
• Charity Walk for Animals: March, several participating shelters
• Vaccination Days: Free campaigns in different regions

Legal and administrative considerations

Pet insurance

Companies offering:

• Swan General: Basic Accident Coverage
• Mauritius Union: Extended medical formula
• State Insurance: Third-party liability option

Recommended guarantees:

• Civil liability: Damage caused by the animal
• Veterinary fees: 50,000-100,000 MUR/year
• Repatriation in the event of the owner's death

Will and succession

• Make provision for the animal in the will
• Identify a partner foster family or shelter
• Consider bequests for future care

Return or move

Re-export

If moving planned:

• Average organization time: 3-6 months
• Serological tests required depending on destination
• Possible quarantine in the country of arrival

Re-export costs

• Generally lower than import
• Indicative budget: 1,500-3,000 EUR to Europe
• Specialized brokerage services available

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Conclusion

Bringing or adopting a pet to Mauritius requires preparation and patience, but the island's many happy pet owners attest that the effort is worth it. Whether you choose to import your faithful companion or open your heart to a local animal waiting for adoption, you will be contributing to the richness of Mauritian life.

Don't hesitate to contact local professionals for personalized advice and join the island's caring community of pet owners. Your new tropical companion awaits!

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Guide updated September 2025. Regulations may change, always check with the relevant authorities before taking any action.

Useful contacts:

• Ministry of Agriculture: +230 212 4035
• National Veterinary Service: +230 464 1191
• Veterinary emergencies: +230 5729 384

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The information in this article regarding the importation and adoption of animals in Mauritius is for guidance purposes only and is subject to change. Veterinary regulations, quarantine requirements, costs, and administrative procedures are regularly modified. We strongly recommend that you verify the latest information with the Mauritian Ministry of Agriculture (agriculture.govmu.org), the National Veterinary Service (+230 464 1191), and the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW, +230 454 5813) before taking any steps.