| In many cases, pets are valued as family members | | | | weight and size restrictions. |
| as much, if not more, than our traditional two legged | | | | 3. There is usually an extra fee associated with |
| members. As a result, their comfort and safety when | | | | bringing pets. Some airlines charge according to the |
| traveling are as big a concern as ours. | | | | weight of the animal others charge a flat rate. |
| The following provides information that can help you | | | | 4. If at all possible, try to arrange for your pet's |
| make the best decisions for your pets travel needs. | | | | flights to be as direct as possible. The less time your |
| Your dog or cat must have papers proving that a | | | | pet has to spend traveling, the less stress he will |
| rabies vaccine was administered at least thirty days, | | | | experience. |
| but not more than 180 days prior to entry into | | | | Once you arrive in Panama with your pet, you must |
| Panama. | | | | then pay a fee of $130 USD. You must also take an |
| You must take your pet to the vet for a complete | | | | oath agreeing to home quarantine your pet for 40 |
| health check as well as to get a certificate for | | | | days. |
| international travel. This health certificate for | | | | If any of the above steps are neglected it is possible |
| international travel must be completed within 10 days | | | | that the authorities will take your pet upon arrival to |
| of the date you plan to travel to Panama. | | | | Panama to be quarantined for 40 days at the airport |
| You must then have your pet's certificate of | | | | vet facilities at a cost of 12 USD per day. In most |
| international travel stamped by the nearest | | | | cases these facilities are not as plush as what your |
| Panamanian Embassy or Consulate. -These stamps | | | | pet may be accustomed to. |
| cost approximately $30.00. | | | | The airport vet is the only person who can approve |
| Some things to consider when choosing an airline for | | | | your animals papers and release your pet. The normal |
| your pets are: | | | | hours of the airport vet are between 9AM to 12PM |
| 1. Some airlines have embargos on pet transport | | | | Monday through Friday. And 1PM to 4PM Monday |
| during extreme summer or winter months. | | | | through Thursday. With this in mind, try to arrange |
| 2. Most airlines will allow you to take your pet in the | | | | the arrival or your pet's flight according to the airport |
| cabin with you as long as your pet meets certain | | | | vets work schedule. |