Best Veterinarians in Asunción for Expats
Asunción's veterinary sector has transformed to serve the growing expat population. Top clinics now rival international standards with digital radiography, ultrasound, and in-house labs - at 50-70% less than US costs. Critical for expats: Paraguay's subtropical climate requires year-round parasite prevention, especially against Leishmaniasis (transmitted by sandflies). Here are the best clinics for comprehensive pet care.
How We Selected
- 24/7 emergency availability
- English-speaking staff
- Modern diagnostic equipment (digital X-ray, ultrasound)
- Experience with Leishmaniasis and tropical diseases
- Location in safe, expat-friendly areas
- Hospitalization and surgery capabilities
Asunción Pet Hospital
Market leader operating 24/7/365 as a full-service hospital. Dedicated rooms for infectious vs non-infectious cases. Digital X-ray, ultrasound, in-house lab. Integrates with PedidosYa for prescription food delivery.
Nantes Hospital Veterinario
High-end private practice serving the city's most affluent demographic. Low-stress, client-focused environment. Specializes in chronic tropical disease management with long-term Leishmaniasis care plans.
Clínica Veterinaria Panda
Emergency trauma specialist known for surgical readiness. Handles severe cases like traffic accidents. Overnight hospitalization with continuous monitoring. Function over aesthetics.
Hospital Veterinario UNA (University)
Academic teaching hospital with the most advanced diagnostics in Paraguay. Handles complex oncology, neurology, and rare conditions. Professors oversee care. Long waits but lowest prices.
Dr. Diego Dacak (Dermatology Specialist)
Prominent specialist for skin conditions - essential given Paraguay's allergy, fungal, and ectoparasite challenges. International dermatology society affiliations. Works via mobile consultation.
Veterinaria Tacuary
Stalwart city-center clinic with decades of community trust. Reliable general practice for routine care, vaccinations, and dentistry. Accepts credit cards.
Veterinaria Reino Animal
Full-service clinic handling exotic pets including turtles and ferrets. Digital radiography and surgery. Emergency services available.
Centro Veterinario San Agustín
General practice serving the Trinidad and Botanico neighborhoods. Strategic location near American School of Asunción (ASA). Good for expat families.
Veterinaria Tajy
Corporate-backed clinic with resources of a large veterinary group. Consistent vaccine availability and professional protocols. Ideal for gated communities in Luque/San Lorenzo.
Clínica Veterinaria Fauna Town
Insurance-network integrated clinic with full general services. Pet shop on-site. Standard care for routine needs.
Pro Tips
- 1CRITICAL: Leishmaniasis prevention is essential - use Deltamethrin collars (Scalibor/Seresto) at ALL times plus monthly spot-on treatments
- 2Keep emergency cash of ~$130 (1,000,000 Gs) - card systems can fail during storms
- 3Pet import requires SENACSA approval: microchip, rabies vaccine (30 days - 12 months prior), health certificate translated to Spanish
- 4Avoid walking dogs at dusk/dawn when sandflies are active - keep pets indoors with screens/AC at night
- 5Premium pet food (Royal Canin, Pro Plan) costs $80-110/bag - local brands like Dudogs are $30-40
- 6Grooming is affordable: bath, cut, nails for $8-13. Most vet clinics have attached salons
- 7For emergencies, call ahead even to 24-hour clinics to ensure the vet is prepped and surgery room ready
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a vet visit cost in Paraguay?
Basic consultations cost $13-20 (100,000-150,000 Gs), specialists $32-50. Spay/neuter runs $75-190 (vs $400-900 in US). Emergency visits $25-40. Overall, veterinary care is 50-85% cheaper than the US.
Are there English-speaking vets in Asunción?
Yes, but not universal. Asunción Pet, Nantes Hospital, and specialist Dr. Diego Dacak are your best bets. Always confirm English availability when booking. Have Google Translate ready as backup.
What is Leishmaniasis and why does it matter?
Leishmaniasis is a serious parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies (Karachã). It affects internal organs and is incurable but manageable. Prevention is critical: Deltamethrin collars worn constantly, monthly spot-on treatments, and keeping dogs indoors at dusk/dawn.
Is there 24/7 emergency vet care in Asunción?
Yes. Asunción Pet (Villa Morra) and Clínica Veterinaria Panda (Lambaré) offer 24/7 emergency services. UNA Hospital handles complex referrals during weekday hours. Save numbers in your phone before you need them.
What are the pet import requirements for Paraguay?
SENACSA requires: ISO microchip, rabies vaccine (30 days to 12 months before arrival), polyvalent vaccines, parasite treatment within 10-15 days of travel, and a health certificate (USDA APHIS Form 7001) translated to Spanish. No facility quarantine - just home quarantine.
Where can I walk my dog in Asunción?
Parque Guasú Metropolitano has miles of dirt trails (cooler than pavement). The Costanera riverfront is breezy for evening walks. Shopping malls have pet-friendly zones. Walk only in early morning or after 8pm during summer heat.
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