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December 2022
I did DIY from Pretoria to Jhb to Cape Town to Frankfurt on 24 December. Both dogs were in the cargo hold for both flights.
DIY can only be done from CPT airport, which is why that flight was added. It means your dogs fly as excess baggage on your flight ticket. There is no pet travel agent involved. It saves a lot of money but does add a lot of stress so be well prepared. I heavily relied on the Facebook group, EMBARK: South Africans Emigrating With Pets.
Dogs: 2 x Italian Greyhounds
Airlines: CemAir (Jhb – CPT) and Lufthansa (CPT – Frankfurt)
Private Vet: Wilgers Animal Hospital (Pretoria)
State Vet: Pretoria (c/o Lillian Ngoyi Street & Pretorius Street – the entrance to the building is next to the McDonalds and the state vet is on the 7th floor)
Tips learned from the process:
* Try and do everything from vaccinations, titre tests and health checks with the same private vet that has done this process before
* Our trainer suggested the dogs sleep in the crates for at least the last two weeks prior to their flight. Our plans ended up being quite rushed so we eventually only had them sleep in the crates for 1 week prior to departure. But we trained them with the crates for 2/3 months prior.
* Book a direct and night flight if you can, best for the dogs
* The DIY guide by Elizabeth Gie mentions a separate Western Cape Health check form, in Gauteng you just use the EU Health Certificate form & the extra declaration page stating you do not intend to export the pets for commercial purposes. There is no specific Gauteng form.
* I did this alone with 2 x 23kg bags and 2 size L Viaggio crates when we arrived at CPT airport, none of the baggage staff wanted to assist me with transporting my dogs and luggage to the arrivals area from the baggage carousel. I ended up relying on kind strangers. Side note, we did fly on 24 December.
* At CPT airport there is a baggage storage place called A-Tech – I left my crates and baggage with them to take the dogs running in between flights. Their prices were very reasonable. I think like R70 a piece of luggage for 5 hours.
We arrived in CPT at 9 AM and only departed for Frankfurt at 18h20.
* We booked a private porter for arrival in Frankfurt to avoid the drama of CPT again. I highly recommend this. Since our flight arrived at 5h30 local time, the customs officials were not there yet. The porter went to the Lufthansa counter while we were busy waiting for my luggage & sorted everything. He literally asked, “do you have your papers?” and when I said yes, he said, “okay then we can go” – I doubt it would have been that easy without him. Again, I speak German quite well which probably helped too. Hiring him did cost €90 but he helped us so much & as it was Christmas morning, I doubt someone else would have helped me with transporting the dogs and my luggage.
* If not using a porter, remember you have to pay for the baggage trolleys I think one or two euros each.
* My husband was already in Germany & rented a VW Tiguan for the journey to our new home in Baden-Württemberg.
* We gave the dogs CalmEze the week leading up to the flights as well as CBD biscuits that they were used to.
March 2022
December 2021
CATS FROM JOHANNESBURG TO FRANKFURT, GERMANY.
https://www.bmel.de/…/heimtiere-einreiseregelung.html
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Weather atlas gives a good overview of the climate per month Another good source of information by Region/Town is the Climatemps website. Here is an example of the weather data they have for Stuttgart Current weather conditions BERLIN WEATHER STUTTGART WEATHER FELDBERG WEATHER Towns with the most sunshine Freiburg and Chemnitz are known as the towns with the most sunshine hours in Germany.Looking for other sunny cities in Germany? You can see a comparison here. When you don’t feel yourself during the darker months, you might suffer from Seasonal affective disorder Warmest cities in Germany Frankfurt is the warmest city in the summer.The city with the highest average temperature for 2019 was Köln-Stammheim. Offenbach am Main is also on the list.Rostock is the coldest on average. Most Rainfall per city Halle / Saale has the least rainfall. It also seldom rains in Erfurt, Berlin and Magdeburg – they still have little sunshine (3.8 to 4.4 hours/day).According to Bild, A lot of rain falls in Oldenburg (1072 milliliters), Remscheid (942), Essen (931), Solingen (896) and Wuppertal (866).This means that North Rhine-Westphalia is not only one of the regions with the poorest sunshine but also one of the rainiest regions. Where to find the most Snow The snowiest location in Germany is the Zugspitze, standing at an elevation of 3,000 meters. While snow is most common in mountainous regions, lower-lying areas also experience snowfall, though less frequently. The heaviest snowfall typically occurs in January and February. Types of weather conditions Precipitation refers to any form of atmospheric moisture that falls to the Earth’s surface. There are various types of precipitation that can occur depending on the temperature and atmospheric conditions in a particular region. The most common types of precipitation include rain, snow, sleet, and hail. To read more about the difference between Graupel, Freezing rain, Sleet and snow, have a look on this page from NJ. der Regen Rain Rain occurs when liquid water droplets in the air combine and become heavy enough to fall to the ground der Hagel Hail Hail is formed when strong updrafts carry water droplets high into the atmosphere where they freeze and are repeatedly cycled through rising and falling air currents, forming layers of ice. der Dauerregen Constant or persistent rain The US National Weather Service has a good explanation of the different types of rainIn Central Europe one speaks of continuous rain when it continues with uninterrupted rainfall and a severity of more than 0.5 millimeters of precipitation per hour for a period of at least six hours. der Sprühregen or der Nieselregen Drizzle Fairly uniform precipitation composed exclusively of fine drops very close together. Drizzle appears to float while following air currents, but unlike fog droplets, it falls to the ground. Quite often fog and drizzle occur together. der Graupel / Graupel Also known as snow pellets.Graupel forms when snowflakes are coated with a layer of ice. Graupel is typically white and opaque. der Eisregen Freezing rain Raindrops becomes supercooled and freeze upon impact with any surface. This results in ice that can accumulate.Freezing rain occurs when the layer of freezing air is so thin that the raindrops do not have enough time to freeze before reaching the ground. Instead, the water freezes on contact with the surface, creating a coating of ice on whatever the raindrops contact. der Schneeregen Sleet Sleet is simply frozen raindrops and occurs when the layer of freezing air along the surface is thicker. This causes the raindrops to freeze before reaching the ground.Sleet occurs mainly just before snowfall and looks like hoarfrost droplets. In contrast to snow, sleet grains are easily breakable. Often these break when they hit the ground. der Schnee Snow Snow occurs when the temperature is cold enough for water vapor to freeze into ice crystals in the air. Snow is solid precipitation that falls from the sky in the form of ice crystals. The ice crystals look like six-pointed stars, needles, columns or plates. der Nebel Fog In the meteorological glossary fog is defined as ‘obscurity in the surface layers of the atmosphere, which is caused by a suspension of water droplets. By international agreement (particularly for aviation purposes) fog is the name given to resulting visibility less than 1 km. However, in forecasts for the public, this generally refers to visibility less than 180 m. Some also say that Fog is a cloud that reaches ground level (rolls in) Der Dunst Mist Mist is defined as ‘when there is such obscurity and the associated visibility is equal to or exceeds 1000 m.’ Like fog, mist is still the result of the suspension of water droplets, but simply at a lower density. Mist typically is quicker to dissipate and can rapidly disappear with even slight winds, it’s also what you see when you can see your breath on a cold day. Some also say that mist forms on the ground (rises) der Eisnebel Freezing fog The fog forms when the temps at the surface are below freezing.The accumulation will usually be horizontal due to the wind. This type of fog can occur when cold air
Shipping and Relocation Companies
Shipping and Relocation Companies Relocating across continents is no small feat — it takes planning, patience, and a few strong cups of coffee. From finding a reliable shipping company to choosing full-service relocation support, the decisions can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve gathered real recommendations from the people who know best: our South Africans in Germany community. On this page, you’ll find a curated list of shipping companies to help move your belongings and relocation services to guide you through the process — from customs paperwork to settling into your new neighborhood. Disclaimer: These companies come recommended by members of our community. While we trust their experiences, we haven’t personally vetted or tested these services. Always do your own research before making any commitments. Shipping from South Africa to Germany Here is a list of the companies suggested by members of our Facebook page: Execu Move Seven Seas. They also offer MoveCubes for smaller shipments and a luggage/baggage service IMS Shipping Kühne Alpha Shipping Vanguard Logistics Elliot Britannia Brytons Shipping from Germany to South Africa All the companies listed above can also be used for shipping belongings back to South Africa. Here are some additional suggestions for shipping companies to ship goods back to South Africa. There is also a FB group called Return to South Africa, where you can find additional assistance Relocately Klingenberg Relocation services Proforg TM Relocation Services ICUnet Group General tips When requesting a quote, ask if clearing costs in Germany or South Africa (if you’re moving back) are included—and get that in writing. Some companies hide extra fees, and you don’t want surprises. Many people have experienced added costs from delays, inspections, or clearance issues. Know exactly what you’re paying for and how these hiccups will be handled. Read reviews before committing. Hearing from others’ real experiences can save you headaches. For small shipments, consider shipping boxes via airline cargo. Contact airlines directly for quotes—this option suits when you don’t have much to send. Plan your timing carefully. Shipping and customs clearance often take longer than expected, especially during holidays or busy seasons. Starting early is your best defense. Check insurance options thoroughly. Not all companies include insurance by default. Ask what’s covered and consider extra coverage for valuable or fragile items. Label everything clearly. Use your name, contents, and destination address in both English and German if possible. Proper labels help avoid costly mix-ups. Keep essential items with you—important documents, valuables, and daily necessities should travel with you, not in the shipping container. Communicate in writing. Save all emails, quotes, contracts, and receipts to keep everyone accountable and protect yourself if issues arise. Ask about tracking. Many reputable shipping companies offer parcel tracking or regular status updates. Knowing where your belongings are brings peace of mind. Related content Facebook Twitter LinkedIn WhatsApp Email
Pets
Pets Bringing your fur babies to a new country is both exciting and emotional Moving pets from South Africa to Germany comes with its own set of rules, and they can change often. That’s why we’ve gathered up-to-date links to official guidelines so you can be sure you’re working with the latest information. We’ve also included trusted pet immigration services recommended by fellow South Africans, plus a section where people share their do-it-yourself success stories—perfect if you prefer to handle the process yourself. Banned and Restricted Dog Breeds in Germany 🚫🐕 Germany has strict regulations on certain dog breeds, and some are not allowed to be brought into the country at all. In addition, each Federal State may have its own list of restricted breeds and extra requirements. Up-to-date details can be found on the Zoll (Customs) website.Some breeds classified as “dangerous” may be permitted in certain states, but they must be registered at the Ordnungsamt and may require additional tests or licenses. Qualzuchten (Torture Breeds) Section 11b of the German Animal Welfare Act prohibits the breeding of animals with traits that cause them to suffer.However, because there are no clear legal definitions, this practice sadly remains widespread. Examples include English Bulldogs, “Teacup” dogs, and Sphynx cats.You can find a detailed list of affected breeds on the PETA website. Cats Cats have a different status in Germany than dogs, and there are fewer regulations regarding cats once you are in Germany.Here are some examples relevant to cats: You do not need to confine your cat to your property, and they can roam freely, You also do not need to attach your cat to a leash. Although you do not need to microchip your cat if you buy it in Germany, it is still advisable to do so. There are no taxes payable on cats Neutering – Most Federal states are now requiring you to have your cat neutered. Find out more from your local municipality Resources on the web Animal Lawyer – Rights and Duties of a Cat Owner in Germany Animal Lawyer – Rights of a cat living outside the house Essential Steps for Bringing Your Pet from South Africa to Germany 🐾✈️ Before your pet can join you on German soil, there’s a strict checklist to follow. These rules are in place to protect both animals and people, so be sure you tick every box. ⚠️ Important: Pet import rules can change without notice. Always double-check the latest requirements on official websites before making travel arrangements. Age, Microchip & Rabies Vaccination $50.99 Your pet must be at least 15 weeks old. Must have an ISO-standard microchip (inserted before vaccination). Must receive a valid rabies vaccination after microchipping, at least 21 days before arrival. Learn more Rabies Blood Test (Titre Test) $599.99 Required because South Africa is classified as high-rabies. Must be done at least 30 days after vaccination and no less than 3 months before entry. Must be carried out at an EU-approved lab. approved labs Documentation $19.99 Animal Health Certificate stamped by a South African vet. Written declaration confirming the pet is not for sale. Learn More Once You’re in Germany 🐕🇩🇪 Register your dog (“Hundregister”) at your local Rathaus. Pay the dog tax (usually €36–60/year, depending on your location). In many states, liability insurance (“Hundehaftpflicht”) is required. In short: Chip ✅ Vaccinate ✅ Test ✅ Certify ✅ Then settle in with paperwork, patience, and your pet’s favourite blanket. Your furry friend’s German chapter is waiting to be written. ❤️ Customs and legislation info Zoll – German Customs, provisions on the import of pet animals Zoll – Dangerous dogs BMEL – Rules on entering the European Union (EU) with dogs, cats and ferrets German Embassy South Africa – Legislation on travelling with pets (dogs, cats and ferrets) from South Africa into Germany Pet Immigration or transport services The following companies were reccommended by fellow South Africans Animal Travel Services Global Paws Aeropets Keringa Petwings PETport Petstravel Shared experiences and doing it yourself Registration, taxes and permits In most states, dogs must be added to the dog registry (Hunderegister) in your area. Search for example “Hunderegister Hamburg”. Please note, not all States (Bundesländer) require you to regsiter your animal. In order to register the dog, the animal needs to be chipped and covered by liability insurance. Dogs must be registered for dog tax /Hundesteuer. You can register for the taxes at the Bürgeamt. See for example the information from Stuttgart or Berlin. Depending on where you live the registration can be done online. Dangerous breeds – If your dog falls in the dangerous breed, you must register it at the Ordnungsamt Identification badge, chip and handler licence As mentioned before, the rules and regulations can differ per federal state. Most states require dogs to have an identification badge and a chip. When you take your dog for a walk, the dog’s name, your address and the dog tax disc must be on the dog’s collar. You might also be required to get a licence to prove you can handle your dog (Hundeführerschein)Information about the Hunderegister can be found on the Hundeinfoportal Rules and regulation for owning a pet The official legal requirements for dog ownership in Germany can be found on the Gesetze im Internet – Dog Regulations website.While not all Federal States have laws requiring you to pick up after your dog, it’s considered basic courtesy, especially in shared public spaces.Carrying dog waste bags is a simple way to keep paths, parks, and pavements pleasant for everyone. Many parks and public areas have special bins for disposing of these bags, making it quick and easy to do the right thing. 🐾 Pet Etiquette Tip: Always carry dog waste bags when you’re out walking. Even if it’s not a legal requirement in your area, it’s a sign of respect for your neighbours and keeps public spaces clean and welcoming for everyone. Pet Insurance Agila and Allianz offer pet insurance (Hundehaftpflichtversicherung). Dog insurance is mandatory in some federal states. It is not medical insurance for your pet, but it
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