Lusaka - Post Report Question and Answers
Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
We worried about taking our pets on such a long flight, but it was fine and the transit via Doha was really good. There is a good local vet, but the facilities are a little...spartan. Emergency care for pets is limited. That said, pets live a very good life here, with the large fenced-in yards and tons of helpers who will dote on them. Many locals are frightened of dogs, and for good reason: people breed and keep guard animals. I was bitten just visiting a local's house by their German Shepherd who thought I walked a little too jauntily towards the front door. Another friend was bitten by a dog that escaped its gate while she was going on a run. There are lots of strays here, and the foster community is active. If you like animals, there is a lot to keep you busy here in terms of volunteer work. - Feb 2026
No quarantine. There are 2-3 good vets that can manage most cat/dog issues. Specialty medication and food is hard to get here and often won’t ship DPO, plan ahead. - Apr 2025
There are a couple of good vets, no quarantine requirement. Not a lot of green spaces (except in your own backyard if you have one). - Dec 2021
No quarantine. We have a vet that we like at Showgrounds and from what I hear there are a few more. Most of them also board pets inexpensively. - Feb 2018
There is one very good American veterinarian here and no, there is no quarantine. If you come with pets, you are advised NOT to go through South Africa-weird restrictions. - Nov 2017
There are a few, including one foreign vet at Showgrounds, one in Kabulonga, and one out on Leopard's Hill Road, all near various housing areas. No quarantine. GSO Shipping/Customs is great with importing pets.
Keep in mind Zambians are often skittish around dogs, so never take them off leash. Drivers can also be reckless. It's not worth it. - Jan 2017
No quarantine for pets but make sure you have all of your documents in order before you arrive. Customs officials do not shy away from euthanizing pets that are not properly cleared in advance. There are several good veterinarians in town and they offer kennel services at a very reasonable rate. Also, if you have any household staff you trust, they will often be happy to pet-sit while you are away. - May 2016
No. A few very good vets. - Jan 2014
No. - Apr 2013
No, but an import permit is required. Showgrounds Vet Clinic can make it all happen. [email protected] - Jul 2010
No. - Mar 2009
