Pet Relocation to Colombia: A Practical Guide and Tips

Published on April 27, 2026 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Relocating to Colombia with your pet can be both an exciting and complex adventure, requiring careful preparation to overcome various administrative and logistical challenges.

Colombia, rich in biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes, offers a welcoming environment for both humans and their four-legged companions. However, before packing your bags, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the numerous rules and legal requirements governing the entry of animals into Colombian territory.

What are the mandatory vaccines? What documents need to be prepared? How to properly organize the journey for your pet’s well-being? This article guides you through each step of the process, providing tips and practical advice for a smooth relocation with your faithful friend.

Administrative Procedures for Importing Pets to Colombia

Key Steps in Administrative Procedures for Importing a Pet to Colombia:

Pre-Departure Preparation

• Check the eligibility of the animal and breeds permitted in Colombia.
• Ensure the animal has electronic identification (microchip).
• Administer mandatory vaccines:
  • For dogs: rabies, distemper, canine hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, coronavirus, parainfluenza.
  • For cats: rabies, feline panleukopenia, viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus.
• Administer internal and external parasite treatment within 60 days before departure.
• Obtain an international health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian and validated by the competent authority of the country of origin (less than 10 days before arrival in Colombia).
• Have an up-to-date vaccination record.
• Register online with ICA (Colombian Agricultural Institute) and apply for sanitary inspection (CIS).

Required Documents

• Original and copy of international health certificate.
• Up-to-date vaccination record.
• Proof of electronic identification (microchip).
• Proof of parasite treatment.
• Veterinarian’s certificate confirming the animal’s good health.
• Printed inspection application and proof of payment to ICA.

Upon Arrival in Colombia

• Present all documents to the ICA inspector at the airport.
• ICA verifies documents, inspects the animal, and issues the sanitary inspection certificate.
• Pay inspection fees (approximately $25–30 USD).
• Pass through customs: the animal’s release depends on ICA document validation.

Summary Table of Required Documents and Procedures

Document / Procedure	Details / Validity	Organization / Responsible Person
Electronic identification (microchip)	Mandatory	Veterinarian in country of origin
Mandatory vaccines	Up-to-date, by species	Veterinarian in country of origin
International health certificate	Less than 10 days before departure	Accredited veterinarian + national authority
Vaccination record	Up-to-date	Veterinarian
Parasite treatment	60 days before departure	Veterinarian
ICA inspection application	Online before travel	Owner
ICA payment proof	To be presented upon arrival	Owner
Airport inspection	Upon arrival	ICA

Quarantine and Specific Restrictions

No systematic quarantine for dogs and cats.

If documents or the animal’s health are non-compliant, ICA may impose home quarantine with control visits.

Certain dog breeds (e.g., pitbull, fila brasileiro, dogo argentino) are prohibited or restricted in Colombia. It is essential to check the official list before traveling.

Organizations to Contact

• ICA (Colombian Agricultural Institute): main organization for inspection and document validation.
• Customs services at arrival airport: document verification and exit authorization.

Practical Tips to Facilitate the Process

• Prepare all original documents and copies before departure.
• Anticipate vaccination timelines, certificate acquisition, and ICA appointment scheduling.
• Check specific airline policies (some refuse brachycephalic breeds or impose age limits).
• Acclimate the animal to transport and travel crate to reduce stress.
• Schedule an appointment with a local veterinarian upon arrival for vaccine and health follow-up.
• Allow extra time for administrative procedures and arrival inspection.

Key Points to Remember

• Dogs and cats do not require an import permit, but other animals (birds, reptiles, etc.) need special ICA authorization.
• Documents must be in Spanish or accompanied by an official translation.
• Procedures and requirements may vary by country of origin, so it’s advisable to consult the official ICA website and make contact before traveling.

Tips for Ensuring Safe Transport of Your Pet

Colombian Regulations for Pet Transport

• Mandatory Vaccines:
  • Dogs: rabies, distemper, canine hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus, coronavirus, parainfluenza.
  • Cats: rabies, feline panleukopenia, feline viral rhinotracheitis, feline calicivirus.
  • Rabies vaccine: administered at least 21 days before departure if it’s the first injection.
• Required Certificates:
  • Veterinary health certificate issued less than 10 days before arrival, validated by the competent authority of the country of origin.
  • Up-to-date vaccination record.
• Additional Treatments:
  • Internal and external parasite treatment within 60 days before travel.
• Quarantine:
  • No systematic quarantine upon arrival, but mandatory veterinary inspection.
• Prohibited Breeds:
  • Staffordshire Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier and their hybrids (except for service animals with specific justifications).
• Other Restrictions:
  • Some airlines and local legislation impose additional rules for brachycephalic breeds and dogs classified as dangerous.

Preparing Your Pet for the Flight

• Consult a veterinarian to ensure the animal is fit to travel and up-to-date on vaccinations.
• Gradually acclimate the animal to its transport crate several weeks before departure:
  • Place their toys, blanket, or familiar objects inside.
  • Gradually increase time spent in the crate.
• Administer required parasite treatments.
• Avoid feeding the animal hours before the flight to prevent motion sickness, while maintaining good hydration.
• Seek veterinary advice on the possible use of appropriate calming products.

Choosing the Transport Crate

Criterion	Main Recommendations
Size	The animal must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Materials	Sturdy, IATA-approved, with ventilation on at least 3 sides.
Comfort	Absorbent mat, absence of harmful elements, familiar objects inside.
Safety	Secure closure, no protruding or dangerous parts.
Labeling	Animal’s name, your contact information, destination, “Live Animal” label, copy of health record attached.

Airline Reservations and Policies

• Book animal transport when reserving your ticket, as the number of pet spaces is limited per flight.
• Check each airline’s specific transport conditions:
  • Maximum weight for cabin travel (often 8-10 kg including crate).
  • Specific restrictions by season (some airlines suspend animal transport in cargo during extreme heat).
  • Frequent prohibition of brachycephalic breeds in cargo.
  • Requirement for approved crates and mandatory documents to present at boarding.
• Plan an alternative solution in case of refusal (e.g., specialized cargo or animal transport service).

Reducing Stress During Travel

• Maintain a reassuring routine before departure.
• Use a crate containing items with the scent of home.
• Consult a veterinarian for possible use of calming pheromones or appropriate calming products.
• Schedule meals to avoid prolonged fasting without risk of vomiting.
• Avoid sudden environmental changes or handling on departure day.

Post-Arrival Tips for Adaptation in Colombia

• Provide a calm, familiar space for the animal upon arrival.
• Allow time for gradual acclimation to the new environment.
• Quickly find a local veterinarian: ask other expatriates for recommendations or consult online veterinary directories.
• Gradually adapt the animal to the climate (heat, humidity, altitude depending on the region) and monitor for any signs of discomfort.
• Respect local rules regarding walking, vaccination, identification, and animal management.
• Gently introduce the animal to different sounds, smells, and habits to limit anxiety.

Remember: Preparation, compliance with regulatory requirements, and anticipating your pet’s needs are key to a smooth and safe journey to Colombia.

Helping Your Pet Adapt to Its New Environment in Colombia

Administrative Procedures for Introducing a Pet to Colombia

To travel to Colombia with a pet, it’s imperative to follow these procedures:

• Obtain a health certificate issued by an official veterinarian from the country of origin, issued within 10 days before arrival in Colombia.
• Present an up-to-date vaccination certificate, including the following vaccines:

Species	Mandatory Vaccines
Dog	Rabies, Distemper, Canine Hepatitis, Leptospirosis (canine and icterohaemorrhagiae), Parvovirus, Coronavirus, Parainfluenza
Cat	Rabies, Feline Panleukopenia, Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Feline Calicivirus

• Administer internal and external parasite treatment within 60 days before shipment.
• Breeds such as Staffordshire Terrier, Pit Bull Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier and their crosses are prohibited from import.

Upon arrival, you must present yourself, with the animal and all documents, at the ICA office to obtain a Sanitary Inspection Certificate. This procedure involves a fee and should be anticipated if arrival occurs outside business hours.

Preparing Your Pet for Air Travel

• Acclimate the animal to its transport crate several weeks before departure.
• Choose an IATA-compliant crate, sized appropriately for the animal, with good ventilation.
• Place a blanket or clothing with the scent of home in the crate.
• Provide a label with your contact information and destination on the crate.
• Limit food before the flight to prevent nausea, but ensure access to water.

Best Practices to Reduce Stress During Transport

• Walk or play with the animal before departure to slightly tire them.
• Use, if necessary and under veterinary advice, calming pheromones or mild sedatives.
• Maintain a reassuring tone and avoid showing stress.
• Plan breaks and short outings during layovers if possible.

Helping Your Pet Adapt to Its New Environment

• Set up a dedicated, quiet space with familiar objects (bed, toys, bowls).
• Keep feeding and walking routines as close as possible to pre-travel patterns.
• Gradually introduce the animal to its new environment by limiting stimuli initially.

Importance of Finding a Local Veterinarian

Quickly schedule an appointment with a veterinarian for:

• A general post-arrival check-up
• Updating the local health record
• Receiving specific advice on local health risks (parasites, endemic diseases)

Activities and Suitable Places to Walk Your Pet in Colombia

• Urban parks (Parque El Virrey in Bogotá, Parque de los Perros in Cali)
• Hiking trails in temperate regions
• Pet-friendly beaches (check local regulations)
• Green spaces in residential neighborhoods

Cultural and Climatic Particularities of Colombia and Adaptation

• Climate varies greatly: there are tropical, temperate, and mountainous zones. Adapt walking frequency and protection against heat or humidity according to the region.
• Some parasites (ticks, mosquitoes) are more prevalent: strengthen parasite prevention.
• Stray dogs are numerous in some cities: avoid direct contact to limit health risks.
• Pets are generally well-accepted, but some rural areas are less accustomed to their presence. Respect local rules and always keep the animal on a leash in public places.
• Anticipate urban noises (traffic, fireworks) that may stress a newly arrived animal.

Summary of Key Steps

1. Prepare required veterinary and vaccination documents
2. Acclimate the animal to the transport crate and prepare all necessary items for the flight
3. Present the animal to ICA upon arrival for sanitary inspection
4. Set up a reassuring space at home
5. Consult a local veterinarian quickly
6. Gradually discover suitable walking areas
7. Adapt health prevention and routines to the Colombian context

Anticipating procedures and paying attention to your pet’s well-being are essential for ensuring a successful journey and adaptation.

Services and Cultural Particularities for Pets in Colombia

Types of Pet Services in Colombia

Service	Description
Veterinary Care	Presence of veterinary clinics in all major cities. Services include consultation, vaccination, surgery, emergencies, and regular follow-up. Microchip implantation and issuance of mandatory health certificates for travel.
Boarding and Daycare Centers	Numerous facilities offering day or overnight care for dogs and cats, with socialization activities, play, supervision, and sometimes training.
Grooming Salons	Standard grooming, haircuts, baths, nail and ear care. Some salons offer home services.
Walking Services	Professional walkers available, especially in large cities. Offer individual or group walks tailored to the animal’s energy level and size.

Cultural Particularities and Regulations

• General Attitude: Colombians show growing attachment to pets, especially in urban areas. Dogs and cats are integrated into family life, though awareness of animal welfare is developing.
• Events and Festivals: Some parks organize festivals or days dedicated to animals (for example, “Animal Day” or local dog parades).
• Regulations:
  • Mandatory electronic identification (microchip) for travel or export/import of animals.
  • Mandatory vaccination against rabies and, for dogs, against other diseases like distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus.
  • Mandatory health certificate for any international movement, obtained from an accredited veterinarian and validated by the local health authority (ICA).
  • Leash required in public spaces, obligation to clean up waste.
  • Certain dog breeds considered potentially dangerous are subject to restrictions (muzzle, liability insurance).

Practical Tips for Expatriates

Food

• Wide choice of industrial food (kibble, wet food) in supermarkets and specialized stores.
• International and local brands available, but some European brands may be more expensive or hard to find.
• Possibility to find specific foods (grain-free, hypoallergenic) in large cities.

Care Products

• Common accessories available: leashes, harnesses, toys, litter, parasite preventives.
• Veterinary medications and hygiene products sold in clinics or specialized stores.

Socialization and Integration

• Many urban parks allow dogs, some have dedicated areas (“parques caninos”).
• Owner groups on social media facilitate meetings and advice among expatriates and locals.
• Take time to observe local habits, especially regarding walking times (often early morning or evening to avoid heat).

Integration Tips

• Update the vaccination record before departure, ensure all local health requirements are met.
• Consult a local veterinarian upon arrival for a health check and advice tailored to Colombia’s climate and environment.
• Plan a gradual transition to local food if changing brands.

Expatriates must absolutely research sanitary and administrative requirements before traveling with their pet to Colombia (certificates, vaccinations, microchip). Upon arrival, respecting local rules and integrating into Colombian urban life will facilitate the well-being of both the animal and owner.