In order to protect the country’s borders from the invasion of diseases and pests that could negatively affect the animal population, the Inspection Department TEZVT – Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (LVV) informs that increased control and enforcement activities in relation to the import of animals are being taken at the ports of entry.
Airline companies and locally established veterinary practices have been notified that there are existing laws and regulations in place that govern the importation of animals or persons traveling with pets.
A permit is required for all animals entering the country for a temporary visit, animals in transit through Sint Maarten on their way to another destination, and for animals entering the country permanently. The permit documentation includes the presentation of a health certificate issued by the national veterinary authority of the exporting country.
Together with the Customs Department, TEZVT-LVV has increased controls and enforcement of the existing country laws in this area and seeks the cooperation of all concerned in order to mitigate risks associated with animal diseases that can be transmitted to humans and local animal populations.
The Department is aware that a lot of animals are imported on a weekly basis by air, and the existing laws of the land establishes requirements for all animals entering Sint Maarten including domestic pets.
According to national laws, responsibility is placed on airlines where quarantine and repatriation is concerned with all associated costs borne by the carrier.
TEZVT-LVV has also been in contact with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the trade association for the world’s airlines in connection with the country’s requirements regarding this subject.
TEZVT-LVV has received positive feedback from visitors who travel with their pets to the country with what is required by the Department in order to facilitate such a visit. Compliance from this group has been very positive.
The Inspection Department TEZVT is the Government agency responsible for supervising veterinary practices in the country. A reporting system has been put in place between the entities concerned and is working well. The Department was informed that due to lack of controls and or application of the relevant laws years ago Canine Distemper, a viral disease that affects animals was able to enter the island.
For further information and to request permits, you can visit The Inspection Department TEZVT-LVV at Cannegieter Street (next to the Sister Borgia School) in Philipsburg or call 520-7213 or email lv*@si************.org