Taking Dogs To Kuwait » Fly Your Dog to Kuwait from UK

Relocating to Kuwait for work and your dog’s coming with you? Here’s what you need to know.

Kuwait has some specific rules about bringing dogs in, including a one pet per person limit that catches a lot of people off guard. We’re Fetchapet and we’ve been flying dogs to Kuwait for over 30 years, so we know the system inside out.

Kuwait’s Pet Import Rules

Kuwait is quite particular about how many pets you can bring in. You’re limited to one pet per person, which means one pet per passport essentially. If you’ve got two dogs and you’re moving alone, that’s a problem. If you’re moving with a partner or family member though, you can bring multiple pets as long as it’s one per person.

Your dog needs to be microchipped before any vet paperwork gets done. The chip number goes on everything so it all links together properly.

Your dog needs a rabies vaccination at least 30 days before travel. We recommend the 30 day timeframe rather than 21 days to ensure there are no issues at customs.

Kuwait requires an Import Permit from their Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources department. This needs sorting before you can ship your dog. We can help navigate this through contacts who know the Kuwait system.

Within 48 hours of flying, your dog sees an Official Veterinarian who completes a DEFRA Export Health Certificate. They’re checking your dog’s healthy and fit to travel. Most vet practices have an OV who can do this.

Your dog travels in a crate we build to their measurements in our workshops. Proper size so they can stand, turn and lie down during the journey.

Once your dog lands in Kuwait and clears customs, they come home with you. There’s no quarantine as long as all import regulations are met.

If you’re bringing a cat instead, here’s what you need to know about flying cats to Kuwait.

That One Pet Per Person Rule

This trips people up constantly, so it’s worth explaining properly.

Kuwait counts pets against human passports. One dog per person entering Kuwait. If you’re a single person moving for work with two dogs, you physically cannot bring both dogs under Kuwait’s current rules. If you’re moving as a couple, you can bring two dogs (one registered to each person). Family of four could technically bring four dogs.

The rule exists and it’s enforced at customs. We’ve seen people try to work around it and it doesn’t end well. If this affects you, talk to us early. Better to know upfront than discover it at the airport.

Timeline For Kuwait

You need the Import Permit sorted before anything else really moves forward. How long that takes can vary depending on processing times.

Once you’ve got the permit, the DEFRA Export Health Certificate happens within 48 hours of departure.

We’d recommend starting the process at least a month before your planned move date, maybe six weeks to be safe. This gives you buffer time if anything takes longer than expected.

Your Dog’s Journey

We build travel crates specifically for each dog. Not generic sizes, actually measured and made for your dog so they fit properly.

Vet bed goes inside which is comfortable and absorbent. Adaptil spray before your dog goes in helps them feel calmer. Not sedatives, just pheromones that dogs naturally produce when they feel safe.

Your dog can’t eat for six hours before check in. Stops them being sick or having accidents when they can’t get out. Water bowl stays in reach throughout the flight though.

The cargo hold is temperature controlled and pressurised the same as passenger seating. Gets dark and quiet once you’re flying. Check in is the loud stressful bit but most dogs settle once airborne.

If you can get the crate a few weeks early, use it at home as a bed with treats and blankets. Your dog claims it as their safe space before travel day.

We collect dogs anywhere in England, Scotland or Wales on departure day. You can also drop off with us or meet at Heathrow.

Living In Kuwait With Dogs

Kuwait’s hot. Really hot, especially May through September. Most dogs there become primarily indoor dogs or only go out very early morning and late evening when it cools slightly.

Think about your dog’s breed and coat before committing. Heavy coated breeds like Huskies or thick furred dogs really struggle in Kuwait’s climate. Short coated breeds handle it better but it’s still a massive adjustment from UK weather.

Outside space is limited in a lot of Kuwait housing too. If your dog’s used to a garden and regular outdoor time, the lifestyle change might be difficult for them.

Cost Of Flying Dogs To Kuwait

The cost depends on your dog’s size. Larger dogs need bigger crates which affects the freight price.

Get a free quote from us with your dog’s details and we’ll give you an exact cost.

Talk To Our Team

Ring us on 01206 330332 between 8am and 4pm Monday to Friday if you want to chat. Or email info@fetchapet.co.uk anytime. We respond quickly even outside working hours.

Kuwait’s one pet per person rule confuses a lot of people. If you’re unsure how it affects your situation, talk to us and we’ll explain your options clearly.

FAQs About Flying Dogs To Kuwait