A Comprehensive Guide to Sending Pets from Australia to Latin America

Sending Pets from Australia to Latin America

Planning to relocate from Australia to Latin America with your beloved pet? The process can be complex, but with careful preparation and understanding of the necessary guidelines, you can ensure a smooth journey for your furry friend. This guide will walk you through the steps, specific considerations for countries like Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Peru, and Uruguay, and provide essential tips for brachycephalic breeds.

General Guidelines for Exporting Pets from Australia

When exporting pets from Australia to any international destination, it is crucial to comply with the Australian Government’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) regulations and the guidelines set by the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA). Here are the general steps you need to follow:

1. Microchip and Vaccinations: Ensure your pet is microchipped and up-to-date with vaccinations, especially rabies.
2. Health Certificates: Obtain an export health certificate from a DAFF-approved veterinarian.
3. Import Permits: Check if the destination country requires an import permit and apply accordingly.
4. Quarantine: Understand the quarantine requirements of the destination country.
5. Approved Carriers: Use airlines and pet transport services that are experienced in handling pets and are IPATA members.

Special Considerations for Brachycephalic Breeds when Sending Pets from Australia to Latin America

Brachycephalic breeds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats, have special needs due to their shortened snouts. These breeds are prone to respiratory issues, which can be exacerbated by stress and changes in air pressure during flights. Here are specific tips for these breeds:

• Consult with Your Vet: Get a Brachycephalic Vet Check – ask our office to email you a copy
• Proper Crate Selection: Use a well-ventilated, comfortable crate that allows your pet to breathe easily, please discuss with our staff.
• Travel During Cooler Hours: If possible, choose flights that travel during cooler parts of the day and during the cooler seasons.

You can read our own article about brachycephalic breeds here.

Country-Specific Tips

Mexico

• Import Permit: Required. Apply through the Secretaría de Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural (SADER).
• Health Certificate: Must be issued within 3 days of travel.
• Vaccinations: Proof of rabies vaccination is mandatory.
• Customs Declaration: Declare your pet upon arrival and provide all documentation to customs officials. You can read about Customs and Immigration information about Mexico by clicking here.

Mexico’s warm climate necessitates careful timing of travel to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Additionally, having all paperwork ready for customs can significantly reduce waiting time upon arrival.

Brazil

• Import Permit: Not required for most pets, but recommended to check for updates.
• Health Certificate: Issued by an accredited veterinarian within 3 days prior to travel.
• Vaccinations: Rabies vaccination certificate is required.
• Quarantine: Not required

Colombia

• Import Permit: Not required for pets, but recommended to check for updates.
• Health Certificate: Issued by an accredited veterinarian within 3 days prior to travel.
• Vaccinations: Rabies vaccination certificate is required.
• Quarantine: Not required

Colombia has relatively straightforward pet import procedures, but it’s wise to stay updated on any changes in regulations. Ensuring that all documents are in Spanish can help facilitate smoother processing.

You can read about bringing your own pet to Colombia here.

Chile

• Import Permit: Not required, but you must provide a health certificate and vaccination records.
• Health Certificate: Issued within 3 days before departure.
• Vaccinations: Rabies vaccination is compulsory.
• Post-Arrival Check: Pets may be subject to inspection upon arrival.

Chile’s rigorous inspection process upon arrival means that having all paperwork in order is crucial. Be prepared for a potential inspection and ensure your pet is comfortable and secure.

You can read about what documents you need to bring for your cat or dog for Chile here.

Argentina

• Import Permit: Not required, but recommended to carry all relevant documents.
• Health Certificate: Must be obtained within 3 days before travel.
• Vaccinations: Proof of rabies vaccination is necessary.
• Additional Tips: Carry an apostilled certificate of origin to simplify customs procedures.

Argentina requires an apostilled certificate of origin for pets, which can streamline customs procedures. Make sure all documents are easily accessible during travel to avoid delays.

You can read about Argentine procedures in the following link

Peru

• Import Permit: Not required, but having one can ease the process.
• Health Certificate: Issued within 10 days prior to travel.
• Vaccinations: Rabies vaccination is mandatory.
• Post-Arrival Check: Pets may be inspected by SENASA (National Agrarian Health Service) officials upon arrival.

Peru’s regulations require that all documentation be clear and complete. It’s also beneficial to have copies of all documents in Spanish to expedite the inspection process.

Uruguay

• Import Permit: Not required, but ensure all documents are prepared.
• Health Certificate: Must be issued within 10 days of travel.
• Vaccinations: Rabies vaccination is required.
• Customs Check: Pets will be inspected upon arrival, and all documents must be presented to customs officials.

Uruguay has stringent import regulations, so ensure that all paperwork is thoroughly checked and in order. Having documents translated into Spanish can also help facilitate the process.

Airlines

Depending on your needs we shall normally book your Pets with Air Canada, Latam, Emirates or Qatar Airways.

Conclusion

Relocating with your pet from Australia to Latin America involves meticulous planning and adherence to various guidelines. Whether you’re traveling to Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, Chile, Argentina, Paraguay, Peru, or Uruguay, ensuring all health certifications, vaccinations, and import permits are in place is crucial for a smooth transition. For brachycephalic breeds, taking extra precautions can make a significant difference in their travel experience. Safe travels!

You can book a flight very easily with us!