Pet Owner's Guide to

Welcome to South Africa—where pets lounge in sunny gardens, explore vineyard trails, and adjust to a rhythm of life that balances outdoor freedom with secure living.
South Africa is a country of stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultures—and for pets, it can be a wonderful place to call home. With a bit of planning and local awareness, expat pet owners will find a thriving pet community, quality veterinary care, and plenty of places to enjoy life together.

This guide covers veterinary care, pet laws, outdoor spaces, pet-friendly venues, and insights to help you and your pet thrive in South Africa.

South Africa offers a wide range of veterinary services—from affordable neighborhood practices to state-of-the-art animal hospitals, especially in major cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban.

Top Veterinary Clinics:

• Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital (Pretoria) – The country’s leading referral and teaching hospital.
• Cape Animal Medical Centre (Cape Town) – A trusted private hospital with 24/7 emergency services.
• Fourways Veterinary Hospital (Johannesburg) – Modern clinic with specialty and dental care.
• Kloof & Highway SPCA Vet Clinic (Durban area) – Affordable, quality care with a community focus.

👉 Tip: Veterinary fees are generally lower than in the U.S. or Europe, but pet insurance is still recommended, especially for emergencies or chronic conditions.

🏥 Emergency Services

Emergency vet care is available in all major metro areas, but may be limited in rural or small-town settings.

To prepare:

• Identify the nearest 24-hour clinic or on-call vet
• Keep a printed and digital copy of your pet’s medical history
• Carry a pet first-aid kit when traveling or hiking
  
  

Many restaurants, especially in Cape Town and Johannesburg, welcome dogs in outdoor areas—and some even offer dog menus.

Pet-Friendly Spots:

• The Company’s Garden Restaurant (Cape Town) – Central, shaded, and dog-friendly.
• Nice on 4th (Johannesburg) – Known for its laid-back vibe and welcoming patio.
• Blueberry Café (Howick, KwaZulu-Natal) – Farm-style café with panoramic views and space for pups.
• Stellenbosch Winelands – Dozens of vineyards allow leashed dogs at outdoor tables or on picnic lawns.

South Africa’s natural landscape is incredibly diverse—from beaches and vineyards to mountains and savannahs—but not all areas are dog-friendly due to wildlife preservation efforts.

Pet-Friendly Spots:

• Green Point Urban Park (Cape Town) – Large urban park with off-leash zones and beautiful views.
• Emmarentia Dam (Johannesburg) – One of Joburg’s most popular dog-walking destinations.
• Virginia Bush Nature Reserve (Durban) – Shaded trails open to dogs on leash.
• Winelands Walks (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek) – Many vineyards allow dogs on leashes during tastings and picnics.

Hiking Tips:

• Many national parks do not allow dogs—opt for private reserves or municipal trails
• Bring water, poop bags, and a secure leash
• Watch for ticks, snakes, and thorny brush

🚆 Transportation with Pets

Public transport in South Africa is not generally pet-friendly, so car travel is essential for most outings.

Cars:

• Dogs should be restrained or in carriers while driving
• Never leave pets unattended in a parked car—heat can be extreme year-round
• SUVs or bakkies (trucks) often require crates or a canopy for safe pet transport

Air Travel (Domestic):

• Domestic flights between cities allow pets in cargo with proper IATA-approved crates
• South African Airways, FlySafair, and CemAir offer pet-friendly options—check with each airline for restrictions

South Africa has a growing market for premium pet supplies. Most urban areas have pet chains and boutique stores, and online delivery is increasingly available.

Popular Retailers:

• Absolute Pets – South Africa’s largest chain, offering food, gear, and grooming.
• Pet Heaven – An online retailer delivering to most areas nationwide.
• Takealot – South Africa’s Amazon-style marketplace with a large pet section.
• Vetshop.co.za – Great for supplements, flea/tick protection, and veterinary diets.