Moving with a Pet to Guatemala

Moving to Guatemala with a pet involves a series of steps to ensure a smooth transition for your furry companion. Whether you're an expat or a digital nomad, understanding the local regulations regarding pet importation is crucial. Guatemala requires up-to-date vaccinations and specific paperwork for pets entering the country. While quarantine is not typically mandated for healthy animals, it's essential to comply with all health certifications to avoid any complications. Pets are common in Guatemala, and locals often have dogs and cats as part of their families. However, the process of bringing pets into the country may differ from what you're used to, so it's important to prepare accordingly. In the following sections, we'll delve into the details of bringing different types of pets to Guatemala, the paperwork involved, and how to settle in with your pet once you arrive.

Can I bring my dog to Guatemala?

Yes, you can bring your dog to Guatemala. The country is generally pet-friendly and allows the importation of dogs, provided you adhere to the necessary health regulations and documentation requirements. Before traveling, ensure your dog is vaccinated against rabies and has a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. It's also advisable to have your dog microchipped for identification purposes.

Can I bring my cat to Guatemala?

Similar to dogs, cats are also welcome in Guatemala. Cat owners must present a valid rabies vaccination certificate and a health certificate from a veterinarian. Ensure that your cat's vaccinations are up to date and that you have all the required documentation ready before your departure to avoid any issues at customs.

Pets that are Prohibited from Coming into Guatemala

Guatemala has restrictions on certain types of pets entering the country. Exotic animals, endangered species, and certain breeds of dogs that are considered aggressive or dangerous may be prohibited. It's important to check with the Guatemalan consulate or embassy for the most current list of prohibited pets before making travel arrangements to ensure that your pet is allowed to enter the country.

How do I bring my pet to Guatemala?

To bring your pet to Guatemala, you must have the following in place: a valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 30 days before travel but not more than one year), a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 15 days of travel, and your pet must be treated against internal and external parasites within 15 days of entry. There is no mandatory quarantine for pets arriving in Guatemala as long as they meet the health requirements. However, pets may be subject to inspection by the Guatemalan agricultural health authorities (SENASA) upon arrival. Ensure all documents are translated into Spanish and notarized to facilitate the process.

Upon Arriving in Guatemala

After your pet has safely arrived in Guatemala, you may need to obtain a local license for your pet, depending on the municipality you reside in. It's advisable to find a reputable veterinarian soon after arrival to ensure your pet's continued health and to assist with any local pet health requirements. While dog parks are not as common in Guatemala as in some other countries, there are still places where you can take your dog for exercise and socialization. Guatemalans generally like dogs and cats, but it's important to be respectful of local customs and regulations regarding pets in public spaces. To integrate smoothly into your new community, always keep your pet on a leash in public areas and be mindful of cleaning up after them.