If you're a pet owner in Malaysia, you might not know that your furry friend can have an official pet passport. This document isn't just a novelty it's a crucial tool that makes traveling with pets easier and ensures they meet necessary health and safety requirements.
What Is a Pet Passport?
A pet passport is an official document that contains vital information about your pet, such as:
Microchip number - A unique identifier to track your pet.
Vaccination records - Including mandatory rabies shots for travel.
Health information - Necessary for international travel compliance.
Introduced in 2010 as part of Malaysia's Animal Traceability System, pet passports help monitor animal movement and prevent the spread of diseases. Currently, this system applies to dogs, cats, rabbits, and horses.
Steps to Obtain a Pet Passport in Malaysia
According to the Department of Veterinary Services (DVS), here's how you can apply for a pet passport:
Microchip Your Pet - Your pet must be implanted with an ISO-compliant microchip for identification.
Ensure Vaccinations Are Up to Date - A rabies vaccination is mandatory for international travel.
Visit a DVS Office or Accredited Clinic - Bring your pet along with their microchip details and vaccination records to a DVS office or an approved veterinary clinic.
Fill Out the Application - Complete the necessary forms and submit all required documents.
Pay the Fee - The pet passport costs RM7 for cats, dogs, and rabbits, while the fee for horses is RM9.
Note: The above fee does not include microchipping, physical examinations, or pet photographs.
How Much Will It Cost?
X user @ShazGhaF recently shared his experience obtaining a pet passport for his cat, Pablo. He spent a total of RM85 at the Department of Veterinary Services Hospital in Cheras, which included the cost of vaccination and microchipping.
also today Floof Boi is officially a Catizen of Malaysia. #TheLifeofPablo
— SG (@ShazGhaF) August 6, 2020
p.s: apparently ugly passport/IC photos does not only apply to humans. pic.twitter.com/Gh4SegKZh8
Additional Travel Considerations
While a pet passport is a key requirement for traveling, each country has its own regulations. Some may require:
Extra vaccinations or treatments
Import permits or licenses
Government endorsements
Before traveling, always check the entry requirements of your destination country and airline regulations. Also, be sure to verify any necessary conditions for bringing your pet back to Malaysia.
Benefits of a Pet Passport
Even if you're not traveling immediately, having a pet passport is beneficial. It keeps your pets medical records up to date, ensuring a smoother experience when you do decide to travel. Additionally, it serves as proof of ownership, which can be essential if your pet gets lost or needs urgent veterinary care in another country.
Where to Apply
You can apply for a Malaysian pet passport at any DVS state office or at accredited veterinary clinics registered as Malaysia Animal Registrars.
For more details, visit the official DVS website or contact a nearby veterinary clinic.
With a pet passport, you're taking a step towards hassle-free travel and better care for your furry friend. Start the process today and ensure a smooth journey for both you and your pet!
Source: SAYS
