Islamabad - 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?
Having dogs is strictly for the wealthy locals and the expats, only. Generally they are not particularly welcome for reasons related to religion and tradition. - Oct 2023
I don’t have any pets, but I do know that Islamabad is the only SIP that allows them (not Pakistan, just Islamabad). I think you’re limited to one cat or dog. Lots of people adopt compound cats or street dogs while they’re here as well. It’s my understanding there’s a trusted vet in town that everyone uses and who makes house calls. While lots of wealthy Pakistanis with experience living in the United States, UK, or Canada have dogs, in general, Pakistan is not a particularly dog-friendly country. Many people who have served in Islamabad tell stories about neighbors putting poison in meat and throwing it over fences to kill dogs. If you plan to bring a dog, you will need to live on compound or hire a dog walker. The rules about walking in the streets in the city are complicated and not really conducive to having an active dog who needs walks. - Jun 2022
No quarantine, but can be difficult sometimes to get vet care when security restrictions are enforced that don't allow personal movements. - Feb 2019
Good vets are harder to find in Pakistan than other places I've lived. It's a good idea to bring a local with you who can help translate. - Sep 2016
Pets are not common (some Muslims consider dogs filthy), but good vets are available. Not sure about quarantine. - Sep 2015
No. - Aug 2015
No quarantine. 2 mediocre vets. I buy human meds at the local pharmacy and treat my pets. All food and litter from Amazon. - Aug 2015
No. There are a couple of vets - and one isn't bad. - Apr 2014
No. - Dec 2013
Nope. - Mar 2012
No. - Aug 2011
No. - Oct 2009
