Generally, China is a benign environment for pet owners, but there are rules, regulations and some prohibitions, so it's wise to get familiar with these before you jump in.

Pet ownership
Keeping dogs and cats in Chinese cities is generally permitted - indeed, dogs are enormously popular in many places, Beijing included. However, Shanghai, with its tighter spaces, is less welcoming to dogs and regulations are more restrictive, especially in regard to having your dog on the street. It's wise to do some careful research before buying a dog in Shanghai or importing one.

In Beijing, there are strict regulations about the size of dogs: animals taller than 35cm at the shoulder are not permitted inside the Fifth Ring Road (except for guide dogs). To be allowed to keep a dog, you must first obtain permission from your local neighborhood committee, who will want to see evidence of residence plus your visa and, if you're importing the dog, the animal's quarantine certificate. (Note that only holders of working (Z) visas or student (X) visas are permitted to keep a dog.) Once you have permission, you must go to the local police station to register the dog. The fee is RMB 1000, which will cover the cost of an immediate compulsory health check and rabies shot at a designated clinic. Annual re-registration is compulsory, and takes place in June.

Wherever you live in China, it's very important to keep your cat or dog under control at all times. Free-running animals have a very short life expectancy on Chinese streets. They will either be picked up by the police or poached for the fur trade or worse. Don't let them out!

Importing pets
Importing dogs or cats into China is a fairly well-established process (see below). Anything more exotic than a dog or cat could be a problem, and it's best to make careful inquiries before starting.

If importing a dog, make absolutely sure that you'll be permitted to keep it: many cities, Beijing included, have size restrictions. Also, before you start, check what you need to do to re-import the animal to your home country.

Whether you're importing a dog or a cat, you will need the assistance of a specialist pet relocation agent for at least the last part of the process - handling airport paperwork. Consider using a relocation company to do the whole job. As well as providing comfortable and safe transit, they can advise on the rules, handle the paperwork, whisk your pet through airport procedures and manage the quarantine process.

Only holders of work (Z) visas are allowed to import an animal: one animal per passport holder. You'll need to show a current rabies vaccination, an export certificate from your home country and a health certificate. You can transport the animal either as unaccompanied baggage or as cabin baggage on the flight with you. On arrival, the animal will be put in quarantine, which will cost in the region of RMB 1000.
 

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