Can I bring my pet to Paraguay?
Yes, pets are allowed with proper documentation: health certificate, rabies vaccination, and import permit. Process is straightforward.
Key Takeaways
- Health certificate + rabies vaccine + import permit required
- Process takes 2-4 weeks of preparation
- Documentation cost ~$150-300
- Most airlines allow pets in cabin for $100-200
- Paraguay is pet-friendly, good vet care available
Yes, you can bring your pets to Paraguay. The process is straightforward compared to many countries but requires proper documentation.
Requirements Overview
For dogs and cats, you need: 1. Health Certificate (within 10 days of travel) 2. Rabies Vaccination (current) 3. Microchip (recommended but not always required) 4. Paraguay Import Permit 5. USDA Endorsement (if from US)
Step-by-Step Process
**6+ Months Before**
- Ensure rabies vaccine is current
- Get microchip if not already chipped
- Research airline pet policies
- Start gathering records
**2-4 Weeks Before**
- Request Paraguay Import Permit from SENACSA
- Available online or through agent
- Cost: ~$20-50
- May require pet's vaccination records
**7-10 Days Before**
- Visit USDA-accredited vet
- Get health certificate (APHIS Form 7001)
- Vet completes health exam
- Cost: $100-200
**3-5 Days Before**
- Get USDA/APHIS endorsement
- Send or take health certificate to USDA office
- Cost: ~$38
- Takes 1-3 days
**Day of Travel**
- Bring all original documents
- Health cert, rabies cert, import permit
- Some airlines want copies too
**Upon Arrival**
- Customs may inspect documents
- Usually quick process
- Pay any import fees (~$20-50)
- Pet released same day
Document Checklist
| Document | Where to Get | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Health Certificate | USDA vet | $100-200 |
| USDA Endorsement | USDA/APHIS | $38 |
| Rabies Certificate | Your vet | Usually free |
| Import Permit | SENACSA Paraguay | $20-50 |
Total Paperwork Cost: ~$150-300
Airline Options
**In Cabin** (small pets)
- United: Yes, ~$125-200
- American: Yes, ~$125
- Copa: Yes, ~$100-150
- Pet must fit under seat
**Cargo/Checked** (larger pets)
- More expensive ($200-500+)
- Temperature restrictions apply
- Book early
**Pet-Specific Airlines**
- Pet relocation services available
- Cost: $1,000-3,000+ depending on distance
Tips for Smooth Process
- **Start Early**: Don't rush documentation
- **Use USDA Pet Travel Site**: Most current info
- **Call Airline Early**: Cabin spots limited
- **Direct Flights Better**: Less stress for pet
- **Avoid Summer Travel**: Cargo hold heat issues
- **Label Everything**: Your name, contact, destination
Living with Pets in Paraguay
**Pet-Friendly**
- Paraguayans love dogs
- Many apartments allow pets
- Good veterinary care available
- Pet stores in malls
**Challenges**
- Some landlords don't allow pets
- Can be harder to find pet-friendly rentals
- Street dogs can upset your pet
- Heat in summer is hard on some breeds
Veterinary Care
Good quality vets in Asunción:
- Prices much lower than US
- Vaccinations: $10-30
- Checkup: $20-40
- Emergency care available
Other Pets
Birds, exotic pets have stricter rules:
- May require additional permits
- Some species prohibited
- Research specific requirements
- CITES permits if applicable
Returning to US
If you later return:
- Dogs need rabies cert for US entry
- Cats have easier requirements
- Check CDC current rules (have changed recently)
Have More Questions?
Explore our comprehensive guides to Paraguay