Bringing Your Pet to Paraguay: Import Rules & Tips

Moving to Paraguay With Your Pet

For many expats, leaving a pet behind is not an option. The good news is that Paraguay allows the import of dogs, cats, and other companion animals, and the process, while involving paperwork, is manageable with proper planning. Thousands of pets enter Paraguay each year with their owners, and the country is generally welcoming to animals.

Start preparing at least two to three months before your travel date to ensure all documents and health requirements are in order.

Required Documents

International Health Certificate

You need a veterinary health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian in your home country. This certificate must confirm that your pet:

• Has been examined and is free of contagious diseases
• Is fit to travel by air or land
• Has received all required vaccinations

In the United States, this is the USDA-endorsed APHIS 7001 form or an equivalent international health certificate. Other countries have similar official forms through their agricultural ministries.

Vaccination Records

Your pet must be current on the following vaccinations:

For dogs:

• Rabies vaccine: Administered at least 30 days but no more than 12 months before travel
• Distemper
• Parvovirus
• Leptospirosis

For cats:

• Rabies vaccine: Same timing requirements as dogs
• Feline panleukopenia (distemper)
• Feline calicivirus
• Feline rhinotracheitis

SENACSA Import Permit

SENACSA (Servicio Nacional de Calidad y Salud Animal) is Paraguay’s animal health authority. You may need to obtain an import permit from SENACSA before arrival. Check their current requirements, as the process can be done through their office or through a local veterinary agent.

Additional Requirements

• Microchip: While not always strictly required, having your pet microchipped with an ISO 15-digit chip is highly recommended and may be required depending on your country of origin
• Parasitic treatment: Some countries require documentation of deworming treatment administered within a specific timeframe before travel
• Apostille or legalization: Your health certificate may need to be endorsed by your country’s agricultural authority (USDA in the US, DEFRA in the UK, etc.)

Airline Transportation

Choosing an Airline

Not all airlines fly to Asuncion, and pet policies vary significantly:

• LATAM Airlines: One of the primary carriers to Paraguay, accepts pets in cabin (small animals) and as checked baggage or cargo
• Copa Airlines: Flies to Asuncion via Panama City, accepts pets with advance booking
• Aerolineas Argentinas: Option if routing through Buenos Aires
• GOL: If connecting through Brazil

Book early and notify the airline about your pet when purchasing your ticket. Most airlines limit the number of animals per flight.

In-Cabin vs. Cargo

• In-cabin: For small pets (usually under 8 kg / 17 lbs including carrier). The carrier must fit under the seat. Cost ranges from $75 to $200 per flight segment
• Cargo/checked baggage: For larger pets. Your pet travels in a pressurized, temperature-controlled section of the aircraft. Cost ranges from $150 to $500+ depending on the size and route

Crate Requirements

If your pet travels in cargo, you need an IATA-approved travel crate that:

• Is large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably
• Has adequate ventilation on at least three sides
• Has a secure latch that cannot be opened accidentally
• Contains absorbent bedding
• Has food and water bowls that can be filled from outside
• Is labeled with “Live Animal” stickers and your contact information

Arriving in Paraguay

Customs and Inspection

When you arrive at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asuncion with your pet:

1. Proceed to the SENACSA inspection area at the airport
2. Present your health certificate, vaccination records, and any import permit
3. A SENACSA official will inspect your pet visually
4. If all documents are in order and your pet appears healthy, you will receive clearance

Quarantine

Paraguay does not typically require quarantine for dogs and cats arriving with proper documentation from countries without active animal disease outbreaks. However, if documentation is incomplete or there is a health concern, temporary quarantine may be imposed.

Finding Veterinary Care in Paraguay

Once you arrive, establishing a relationship with a local veterinarian is important:

Veterinary Clinics in Asuncion

Asuncion has numerous veterinary clinics offering quality care. Services and costs include:

• General consultation: Gs. 80,000 to Gs. 200,000 ($10 to $25 USD)
• Vaccinations: Gs. 100,000 to Gs. 250,000 per vaccine
• Spay/neuter surgery: Gs. 400,000 to Gs. 1,200,000 depending on the animal’s size
• Emergency care: Available at several 24-hour clinics in Asuncion

Pet Supplies

Pet food and supplies are widely available:

• Supermarkets carry basic pet food brands
• Specialized pet stores (petshops) are found throughout Asuncion
• International brands like Royal Canin, Purina, and Hills Science Diet are available but may cost more than in the US or Europe
• Local brands offer more affordable alternatives

Practical Tips for Pet Owners in Paraguay

Climate Adjustment

Paraguay’s subtropical climate requires attention for pet comfort:

• Heat: Summer temperatures above 35 C can be dangerous for pets. Ensure access to shade, water, and air conditioning
• Parasites: Ticks and fleas are common year-round. Maintain regular preventive treatment
• Heartworm: Present in Paraguay; discuss prevention with your veterinarian

Housing Considerations

When searching for an apartment, keep your pet in mind:

• Not all buildings allow pets: Confirm pet policies before signing a lease
• Size restrictions: Some buildings limit pet size or number
• Outdoor space: A balcony or nearby park access is important for dogs
• Ground floor units: Often preferred by dog owners for easy outdoor access

Walking and Exercise

• Parks: Asuncion has several parks suitable for dog walking, including Parque de la Salud and the Costanera
• Dog walkers: Professional dog walking services are available and affordable ($3 to $8 per walk)
• Safety: Keep dogs on leash in public areas, as stray dogs are common and interactions can be unpredictable

Pet Registration

Once settled, register your pet with a local veterinarian and keep vaccination records up to date. This is important for any future travel with your pet and for compliance with local regulations.

For help receiving pet-related shipments like specialty food or medications from abroad, our virtual address and mail forwarding service can handle incoming packages. Explore our blog for more guides on making Paraguay your new home.