Expert: Roberto Gomes - 8/6/2008

Question
I have accepted a job in Jamaica and am just now finding out they do not allow
dogs in from the US.  Is this true??  I am devastated.  Can you help with any
suggestions?

Answer
Dear Susan,

Your comments about my answer seems to be very confused.

The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) is the system that allows pet dogs, cats and ferrets from certain countries to enter the UK without quarantine as long as they meet the rules. So it's not applied for transportation between the US and Jamaica.

Jamaica is a qualifying country under the EU regulation, but its own laws currently prevents the involvement of that country in PETS. PETS-prepared animals may not enter Jamaica and animals may not be prepared for PETS in Jamaica.

Best Regards,
R. Gomes


According to the Jamaican Customs website, live animals fall under the category of restricted items which are those in which you would need to obtain a permit before the importation of the item. Any restricted goods arriving without a valid permit is a breach of Section 210 of the Customs Act.

Pets must have a permit from Veterinary Services Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, which can be contacted at:

Hope Gardens
Kingston 6. Jamaica
Tel: (876)927–1731–50
Fax: (876)927–1904

or online via:

http://www.moa.gov.jm/contact.php

Hope this helps,
Best Regards,
R.Gomes