Morocco with Pets:
The Complete Travel Guide

Morocco can be extremely hot, especially from May to September when temperatures regularly exceed 40 degrees Celsius in cities like Marrakech and Fes. Never leave your pet in a car. Walk your dog early in the morning (before 9:00) and in the evening (after 18:00). Carry water at all times and watch for signs of heatstroke: excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or vomiting. Hot pavement can burn paw pads; test the ground with the back of your hand before walking your dog.

Morocco has a significant stray dog population, particularly outside major cities and in rural areas. Stray dogs can carry rabies, parasites, and diseases. Keep your pet on a leash at all times in public. Avoid areas where stray dogs congregate, especially near garbage dumps and construction sites. If a stray dog approaches aggressively, do not run. Stand still, avoid eye contact, and slowly back away. Report any bites to a vet immediately.

Do not let your pet drink from puddles, streams, or communal water bowls, as these may contain bacteria, parasites, or toxins. Carry bottled or filtered water for your pet. Avoid feeding your pet table scraps from Moroccan restaurants, as the spices (especially chili and cumin in large quantities) can cause digestive upset. Bring your pet's regular food from home or purchase a familiar brand at a Moroccan pet store (available in Marrakech, Casablanca, and Rabat).

Morocco has ticks, fleas, sandflies, and mosquitoes that can transmit diseases including leishmaniasis, ehrlichiosis, and heartworm. Ensure your pet is on a broad-spectrum parasite preventative (covering ticks, fleas, and heartworm) before traveling. Apply tick and flea treatment within 48 hours of arrival. Check your pet thoroughly for ticks after walks, especially in grassy or rural areas. Sandfly-repellent collars (such as Scalibor) provide additional protection against leishmaniasis.

Petit taxis (small city taxis) generally do not accept pets. Grand taxis (shared taxis for intercity travel) are at the driver's discretion. Your best options are rental cars or private transfers arranged through your hotel. The ONCF train service does not permit pets except small animals in carriers. CTM and Supratours bus services do not allow pets. If driving, use a pet seatbelt harness or a secured crate. Never let your pet ride with its head out the window due to dust and debris on Moroccan roads.

In Moroccan culture, dogs are sometimes viewed differently than in Western countries. While attitudes are changing, especially in tourist areas, some Moroccans may be uncomfortable around dogs due to religious or cultural beliefs. Keep your dog on a short leash in medinas and crowded areas. Do not bring your dog into mosques, most traditional restaurants, or food souks. Cats, on the other hand, are widely loved and well-treated throughout Moroccan society. Be respectful of local customs and keep your pet under close control.