Moving to Accra and adapting to life in Ghana can be an exciting adventure, but bringing a pet along requires thorough planning and preparation. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly place to live in Accra, this guide highlights the top neighborhoods for you and your furry friend as well as useful tips, best pet shops, veterinary clinics and regulations to live with pets in Accra.
For starters, you should know that Greenviews Residential is proudly pet-friendly, so feel free to check out our property!
Pet-Friendly Housing in Accra
Accra is a rapidly growing city, but pet ownership is not as widespread as in some Western countries. Despite this, the culture of keeping pets is gradually increasing.
Finding pet-friendly accommodation in Accra can be challenging. Many landlords are hesitant about allowing pets due to concerns over potential property damage or noise complaints. However, with patience and proper research, it is possible to secure a comfortable home for you and your pet.
Best Neighborhoods for Pet Owners in Accra
Some areas in Accra are more accommodating to pet owners due to their spacious environments, access to green spaces, and general openness to pet-friendly living. Popular neighborhoods include:
Airport Residential Area
Green Views is located in the great Airport Residential Area in Accra
Known for its upscale apartments and houses such as Greenviews Residential, this area has several parks and open spaces for pet owners to walk their animals. No wonder it’s on the top of the list when it comes to the safest neighborhoods in Accra.
Cantonments
A diplomatic enclave with high-end housing, gated communities, and access to quiet, well-maintained streets ideal for pet walking.
East Legon
A bustling but residential area with large homes, many of which have spacious yards, making it ideal for pets in Accra. Also, many of the top pet shops in Accra are located in this neighborhood.
Trasacco (East Legon)
A high-end gated community that offers vast outdoor spaces, perfect for pets who require room to roam.
We also encourage you to take a look at the places in Accra you should avoid. As any other big city, Accra has a few not-so-safe neighborhoods you want to stay away from and several safety concerns you should be aware of.
Finding Pet-Friendly Rentals
Expats searching for pet-friendly housing should work with real estate agents who specialize in serving expatriates. Online platforms like Jumia House, Meqasa, and Ghana Property Centre provide listings, some of which indicate pet policies. It is advisable to negotiate directly with landlords, as some may be open to pets upon request, especially with a pet deposit.
Veterinary Care in Accra
Ensuring that your pet has access to quality veterinary care is crucial. Accra has several veterinary clinics, though they may not always match the standards of Western countries.
Don’t miss our more in-depth article with a list of the best veterinary clinics in Accra.
Common Pet Health Concerns in Ghana
Due to the tropical climate and environmental conditions in Ghana, pet owners should be aware of certain health risks. Common concerns include:
- Ticks and Fleas – Due to the warm climate, ticks and fleas are prevalent. Regular flea and tick prevention treatments are necessary.
- Heartworm – Mosquito-borne diseases like heartworm are common in tropical areas, so preventive medication is advised.
- Heatstroke – Pets, especially dogs, can struggle with the heat, so it is important to ensure they have enough water and shade.
- Rabies – Ghana has reported cases of rabies, making it essential to keep your pet’s vaccinations up to date.
Travel Regulations for Pets in Ghana
Bringing a pet into Ghana involves several steps, so it is important to prepare well in advance to ensure a smooth transition.
Entry Requirements
Before bringing a pet to Ghana, you must comply with the country’s import regulations. Requirements include:
- Microchip – While not strictly required, having your pet microchipped is recommended for identification purposes.
- Rabies Vaccination Certificate – Ghana requires proof of rabies vaccination at least 30 days before travel but not more than a year before entry.
- Health Certificate – Issued by a licensed veterinarian, this document should confirm that your pet is in good health and free from contagious diseases.
- Import Permit – You should apply for an import permit through Ghana’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
Airlines and Pet Travel Tips
When flying with pets, it is crucial to choose an airline that accommodates animals. Airlines such as KLM, British Airways, and Turkish Airlines offer pet-friendly policies. Some key tips for traveling with pets include:
- Choose a Direct Flight – Reduces stress on your pet and avoids long layovers in unfamiliar environments.
- Invest in a Good Travel Crate – Airlines require IATA-approved travel crates to ensure pets’ safety.
- Plan for Arrival – Upon arrival in Accra, be prepared for potential customs inspections, and have all documents readily available.
Finding Pets Supplies in Accra
Pet supplies may not always be readily available in Accra, reason why it is advisable to bring some essentials with you when relocating. However, there are some stores where pet supplies can be purchased:
- Koala Shopping Centre – Stocks a limited range of pet food and accessories.
- Maxmart – Offers international brands of pet food, though availability may fluctuate.
- Palace Mall – has dog food, dog shampoo and a small range of accessories for dogs.
- Independent Shops – there are many independent pet shops across various areas in Accra. You will not necessarily find them online, maybe if you walk around your area and keep an eye out, you will find one. We also recommend asking people in your area or posting on Facebook Expat groups with any specific requests.
Dog Parks and Open Spaces
Unlike many Western cities, Accra does not have dedicated dog parks. However, there are several open areas where pet owners can walk their dogs:
- Legon Botanical Gardens – A spacious and green environment suitable for dog walking, though pets must be leashed.
- Beaches – Some beaches, such as Labadi Beach and Bojo Beach, allow dogs during off-peak hours, but it’s best to confirm with local authorities.
- Gated Communities – Many gated communities have private parks or open areas that are safer for walking pets.
Labadi beach
Pet Etiquette and Cultural Considerations
While pet ownership is becoming more common in Ghana, cultural attitudes towards pets vary. Dogs are often kept for security purposes rather than companionship, and some locals may be uncomfortable around dogs due to religious or cultural beliefs. It is essential to be mindful of local customs:
- Keep Pets on a Leash – In public places, always keep your pet on a leash to avoid misunderstandings.
- Clean Up After Your Pet – Pet waste disposal is not common in Accra, so carry waste bags and clean up after your pet.
- Respect Boundaries – Not everyone is comfortable around pets, so be considerate when taking your pet into public spaces.
