Pets in Northern Cyprus

Pets in Northern Cyprus:

Taking care of a pet can help you make healthy lifestyle changes. Pets can be excellent social facilitators for their owners, helping them make new friends and maintain existing ones. Dog owners often get to know each other during walks in the park, where their dogs interact, and they continue their friendships. Additionally, pet owners get to meet new people at pet stores, clubs, and training classes. Many pets, especially dogs who live in the present moment, can help you become more mindful and appreciate the joy of the present. Taking care of a pet can contribute to healthy lifestyle changes, as proven by the fact that petting, cuddling, or simply touching a beloved animal can quickly bring calmness in times of stress or anxiety. A pet can alleviate your loneliness, and most dogs serve as excellent motivators for healthy exercise, significantly improving your mood and reducing depression. Most pet owners know how incredibly rewarding it can be to have a pet. Pets don't necessarily have to be dogs or cats; birds can also be a suitable option for adults.

 

Popularity of Pets in Northern Cyprus:

The popularity of pets in Northern Cyprus reflects the importance of biodiversity conservation and the natural beauty of the region. Northern Cyprus is one of the countries where people are fond of animals and hold great respect for animal rights. They believe in adopting animals rather than buying or selling them, considering it a more humane approach. The people of Cyprus emphasize that pet shops are not places for selling animals, but rather for selling pet supplies such as clothing, food, and accessories. As a result, the number of pet shops and veterinary clinics in Northern Cyprus is relatively high compared to the size of the island. They also teach their children from an early age about the culture of loving animals and being environmentally friendly. When walking and shopping in the streets of this country, you will find food and water for animals placed in various locations, and even animals comfortably resting inside shops during hot summer afternoons without anyone disturbing them.

Some municipalities in Northern Cyprus have animal shelters where people can adopt their favorite animals. The municipalities of Nicosia, Famagusta, Girne, Guzelyurt, Degirmenlik, Iskele, Senti and Tatlisu have animal shelters.

 

Keeping Animals in Private Properties:

There are no specific conditions for keeping pets in private properties in Northern Cyprus, and various animals can be kept in homes and villas. However, it is important to note that the keeping of certain dog breeds is prohibited in this country. These breeds include Pit Bull Terriers, Tosa Inu , Dogo Argentino , and Brazilian Fila. Additionally, keeping any endangered or dangerous breeds is also prohibited and may result in individuals being expelled from the country. The most common pets kept by people in Northern Cyprus are dogs and cats. It is worth mentioning that if you own a personal property in Northern Cyprus, it will be easier for you to meet the conditions for keeping pets, as some property owners do not allow the keeping of pets in rental properties. Therefore, it is essential to consider this point when signing a lease agreement.

 

Entry Regulations for Dogs and Cats in Northern Cyprus:

Northern Cyprus is one of the countries that attracts many tourists and immigrants each year and can be considered a popular destination for migration. To bring any pet into this country, you must follow certain guidelines and comply with the laws of the country. It is important to note that the procedures for bringing dogs and cats are more extensive compared to other pets, but these regulations are primarily designed to ensure the well-being of the animals. It is also important to know that each person is allowed to bring only three dogs with them to this country. The regulations for bringing pets into this country are as follows:

 

Having a microchip:

Every dog and cat that is supposed to continue their life in Northern Cyprus must have a microchip. These microchips are actually tracking devices that allow you to locate them if they get lost.

Vaccination:

Another requirement for keeping pets in Northern Cyprus is vaccinating the animal before entering. It is important to note that the most important vaccine for dogs is the rabies vaccine, and it must be administered at least one month before entering Cyprus.

Exit permit from the country of origin:

Your pet must undergo a health examination in the country of origin 48 hours before the flight so that you can obtain a health permit for them. This permit must be approved by the responsible veterinary authorities of the country.

Entry permit for the destination country:

Similar to other countries, for entering Northern Cyprus with a dog or a cat, you need to obtain specific permits for that country. The details and correct completion of forms according to the Northern Cyprus standards are of utmost importance and must also be approved by the Northern Cyprus Veterinary Administration. It is important to note that the mentioned permit must be in Turkish or English.

 

Required information recorded in the pet's certificate and ID:

Every pet must have its own ID and a specific certificate, which is essential for your pet's entry into the country. This information includes the following:

1. The age of the animal.

2. The precise number and date of microchip injection.

3. The exact date of vaccination.

4. The name, serial number, and expiration date of the vaccine.

5. Vaccination reminder date (which should match the vaccine manufacturer's calculations).

6. Blood test for measuring Harry antibody titer.

7. The blood sample should be taken at least 30 days after the Harry vaccination and should be sent to an approved laboratory in Turkey or the European Union (these 30 days should be calculated one day after vaccination).

8. The blood test should indicate an antibody titer of IU/ML 5.0 or higher.

9. If the blood test is deemed acceptable by the laboratory, your pet is allowed to enter the country three months after the blood sample is taken.

10. Obtain a letter of commitment not to use for commercial purposes.

11. Obtain an entry permit from Northern Cyprus maximum one month before the trip.

 

Entry regulations for other animals in Northern Cyprus:

For the entry of other animals such as rabbits or birds, you do not need to go through the same procedures as for dogs and cats. Just keep in mind that having an ID and a health certificate is very important for the entry of all pets.

 

Not complying with the entry regulations for pets into Northern Cyprus:

When bringing a pet into Northern Cyprus, if your pet's documents are incomplete, initially steps will be taken for the return of your pet to the country of origin, or if possible, your pet will be quarantined at the airport. It is important to note that all related expenses are the responsibility of the pet owner.