Dear Editor,

I have been offered a job in Beijing but am concerned about the process of bringing my pet dog (a beagle, mid-size dog) into Beijing. I understand that I can have the option of having home quarantine for my dog (which I prefer), is that correct information. Also, I understand that there are new rules on certain dog sizes being allowed to be kept in Beijing. Can you please clarify this? I hope you can help so that I can have peace of mind with regards to bringing my dog safely over to Beijing.

Thank you and look forward to your advice and information.

Kind regards

Juliana Yeo

Singapore

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Dear reader,

According to the Beijing Entry-Exist Inspection and Quarantine Bureau, your dog needs to be quarantined in Beijing for 30 days, and we are sorry but there are no exemptions. In Beijing, upon arrival at the airport, an official from the department will wait to take your dog to a quarantine facility. They will inform you of the date at which you can recover your pet. Certain fees must be paid which vary according to local regulations, but will amount to at least 1,000 yuan (US$130).

In addition, each passenger is allowed to bring one pet only, with an up-to-date rabies vaccination certificate and a health certificate issued by the relevant government quarantine department in the country of origin.

As to your second question, in line with recent regulations dogs taller than 35 centimeters at the shoulder can no longer be kept in urban areas (usually meaning the area inside the city’s Fourth Ring Road).

Consultation telephone:

Beijing: 86-10-6459 6302

Best Wishes!

(China.org.cn September 27, 2008)