What to Prepare When Bringing Pets to Mainland China
Bringing pets from Hong Kong to the mainland isn't as simple as just going — you need to meet the mainland's quarantine requirements:
- Microchip: Your pet must first be implanted with an ISO microchip
- Rabies vaccine: You need proof of vaccination within the valid period
- Health certificate: An animal health certificate issued by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) before departure
Border Crossing Process
- Book an appointment with the AFCD's Animal Management and Animal Welfare Division to obtain the health certificate
- Choose a designated border checkpoint (some checkpoints have pet lanes)
- Declare your pet to mainland customs when crossing — quarantine inspection may be required
- In some cases, pets may need to be placed under quarantine observation (depending on the destination's policies)
Shenzhen Vet / Pet Services
- Shenzhen has many pet clinics, and fees are cheaper than in Hong Kong
- Wide selection of pet supplies and food — you can buy them on Meituan / Taobao
- Hong Kong residents living long-term may need to complete local procedures such as getting a "dog license" for their pets
⚠️ Pet border crossing policies are subject to updates — always check the latest official requirements before departure and allow ample time for paperwork.
— Compiled by the HKSZ Life editorial team. Information is subject to the latest official announcements.

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