Living the GOOD LIFE for the REST OF YOUR LIFE!
BRINGING PETS
TO PANAMA
Pack Fido and bring him with you when you make your move to Panama. It can be done if you follow the rules and regulations. Always verify that whatever information you receive is accurate and up-to-date as rules change. Your local Consulate will be helpful.
This is what you will need to prepare:
Your veterinarian must issue a Health Certificate no more than 10 days before you leave for Panama. The certificate should indicate that your pet is healthy and free of parasites. It must also include: After the health certificate is issued, two copies must be endorsed by the USDA. Go to
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_health/area_offices/
to find the nearest office in your state. You will be charged a fee for this service, but you can list more than one pet on the form.
After the health certificate has been completed and endorsed by the USDA it must then be authenticated at a Panamanian Consulate (a fee will be charged) OR Apostilled (translated) by your state's Office of the Secretary of State. Most states charge for this, so check with your state authorities for procedures and costs.
Panama does require quarantine BUT you can apply for “home quarantine”. Do this at least two weeks before traveling to Panama.
When you get to Panama, the airport veterinarian will clear your animal for entry. He will issue the papers giving you permission to “home quarantine” your pet for 40 days. The fee runs approximately $130. Expect to wait up to 5 hours for the process to be completed.
If you do not have the proper documentation, your pet will be held in quarantine at the airport for 40 days and there is a daily charge. The vet is not always at the airport, so plan your trip to arrive during the week during general office hours. Otherwise, your pet will be impounded until the vet does arrive and clears your animal for entry into Panama.
Pet transporters will help you with your paperwork and the clearance into the country.