. *The greatest benefit of being a Geechy is that no one knows my nationality or race "unless" I speak.
Thinking about bringing your beloved fur baby to Nicaragua from the U.S. or Canada? Here is a complete set of requirements you need to help guide you in your quest. And soon, you and Fido, or Felix, will be off to paradise!
Nicaragua does not quarantine cats or dogs, including service and emotional support animals that meet the following entry requirements:
- Pet Microchip: Nicaragua does not require a pet microchipped, but it is recommended that you microchip your pet and register your contact information prior to traveling, as a means of identification should your pet be lost or separated from you. If your pet does not have a registered microchip, make sure they wear tags to identify them including the owner’s contact information.
- Vaccinations: Your pet must be vaccinated for rabies between 30 days and one year prior to entering the country. A rabies titer test is not required to enter Nicaragua from any country.
- Health Certificate: A licensed veterinarian must complete a Veterinary Health Certificate for Nicaragua within 14 days of entry. It should state that your pet is in good health and free from parasites such as fleas and ticks. If traveling from the U.S. or Canada, then a USDA or CFIA accredited veterinarian completes the form and you have it endorsed by the USDA or CFIA. If you are entering Nicaragua from another country, the Governing Authority of our country is responsible for the import and exports of animals and should endorse these forms.
- Import Permit is not required when entering Nicaragua with a personal pet.
- Ticks/Tapeworm Treatment: A ticks and tapeworm treatment is not required prior to entering Nicaragua, but is recommended due to the lack of availability of these products in the country.
- Puppies and Kittens: Unvaccinated puppies and kittens are permitted entry to Nicaragua if under 4 months of age.
- Entering Nicaragua by Air: Pets should enter Nicaragua via Augusto C. Sandino International Airport in Managua. They can arrive in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as air cargo. All domestic dogs/cats must be free of evidence of disease communicable to humans when examined at the entry airport. If your pet doesn’t appear to be in good health, further examination by a licensed veterinarian may be required at your expense.
- Banned Breeds: Nicaragua does not publish a list of banned breeds.
- Other Animals: Owners of different kinds of pets are advised to seek further information from the relevant authority of their country and/or that of the country of destination.
- Cites: If your pet is not a dog, cat, or ferret, and especially if it is a turtle or parrot, you should verify that it is not protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). You will need to apply for additional permits if this is the case. Over 180 countries participate and enforce CITES regulations.
Airlines: Airlines may have separate and additional requirements. Check with your airline to determine what requirements they may have for pets, if any.
For the most current information on bringing your pets into Nicaragua, visit www.pettravel.com. Once you have taken all the necessary steps to bring your furry family members to your new home, let the good times begin!
I should have stayed in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua when I was there. Living under a dictator has no shades of grey and there's really only one rule = Don't buy or use drugs.
