For pet parents, it often becomes difficult to enjoy vacation knowing that back home, their pet is locked in a kennel and eagerly waiting to hear their footsteps. The good news is that a lot of Americans who visit Costa Rica on long vacations bring their pet children along with them. Bringing your furry friend to Costa Rica can be simple when you know all the rules. So, keep the following points in mind while planning a Costa Rican vacation with your pet:

US Requirements

> Timing is everything if you want your pet to accompany you to Costa Rica. To avoid hassles, start planning well before your departure date.

> First, get your pet examined by a USDA accredited veterinarian. He should fill up the Federal APHIS Form 7001 declaring that your pet does not have any health problem whatsoever.

> Remember that your pet’s health certificate is valid only for 10 days before departure. On the other hand, most airlines won’t let you make reservations before 13 days. Keep the two dates in mind while scheduling your journey.

> If your pet is not sharing the cabin space with you and is traveling as cargo, the chances are that he won’t be on the same flight as you. In that case, you will have to obtain an import permit.

> Carry two or three extra copies of all your documents.

>  All airlines have their own rules for pet transportation be it for cabin or cargo transfer. Keep these requirements in mind while preparing for the trip.

> Don’t tranquilize or muzzle your pet while flying.

Costa Rica Requirements

In the case of cargo transfer, you will need an import permit to get customs clearance. If you have hired an international pet mover, the company will handle the matter on your behalf. They will require a set of documents including a copy of your passport or legal ID and the copy of the passport or legal ID and the contact information of the person receiving your pet in Costa Rica. In addition, the company would also need a copy of your pet’s valid health certificate and vaccinations and his flight reservation.

In Costa Rica, the airport customs office is open from Monday through Friday during the regular business hours. If you arrive in the country on a Saturday or a Sunday, you’ll have to wait till Monday to pick him up. If you arrive there late at night, you will have to wait until the next day.

Vacationing in a beautiful country like Costa Rica could be one of the best experiences you and your pet can ever share. If you want to know how you can make it even better, give us a call today at 1-844-MY-HILLS.