hatesnow
2/16/2018 00:05 EST
Does anyone have an experience with shipping pets? I would like some feedback as there are several out there and since cost is so high I want to make sure they are reputable and trustworthy. Thanks !
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RedHatLady
2/16/2018 18:22 EST
I have a friend who recently brought her very small dog to Panamá. She did it all herself. Copa is best airline and arriving at Tocumen during hours the office is open to clear animals is very simple on your own. The guarantee seems scary but all they want is an address where the animal will be living. Seriously I don’t think anyone checks! If you want more info contact me by private msg. Might be able to help with apt if you don’t need to be in PC. ONLY 30 mins across Canal
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PanamaJackie
2/18/2018 22:42 EST
1st you need to check the USDA.gov website for a vet in your area who is certified to do International Health Certificates. Contact the vet to make sure your pet is up to date on their shots.
Then check with the airlines to make sure your pet can get on your same flight to Panama. If the pet is small enough, they can go under the seat otherwise they will need to go in cargo. Each airline has different rules. They will charge about $135 for your pets ticket. Go ahead and book your flight and pay for the pet to come with you.
Then 10 days before your flight, go to the Vet to get the international health certificate.
Next, send the certificate overnight express to the USDA in your state or drive it to their office if it is close. Includes a self addressed stamped envelope for them to return it to you. They charge about $40. Call to verify the charge and address.
Once you get the certificate back from the USDA, it need to be sent Federal Express next day delivery to the Panama consulate that is closest to you or in Washington DC. If there is an office near you, you can drive it over. They need to authenticate the documents. They charge about $20 per document.
Simultaneously while you are doing these things, you need to contact Jose at GoldenFrog.net in Panama. He will do the documents necessary for you to bring the pet in to Panama and he will meet you at the airport when you arrive then take your pet to the VET office at the airport. The Vet charges $140. Jose charges about $50. Then Jose can take you to a pet friendly hotel in Panama City or on to your final destination.
Be sure to get your pet comfortable with the carrier you will be using at least several weeks before your flight.
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hatesnow
2/19/2018 14:50 EST
Don't I need an address for the quarantine before we arrive, and do we have to stay at the one place for that time frame or may we move (I would assume not, being a quarentine?)
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PanamaJackie
2/19/2018 14:53 EST
No, you do not need an address for the quarantine. You can give them a hotel name where you will stay while you are looking for a house to rent
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hatesnow
2/19/2018 15:03 EST
PanamaJackie: Thanks for info. I'm afraid that being GOVERNMENT facilities O wouldn't get the paperwork back in time? And when would I send the $, it seems they wouldnt do anything before being paid. If I call would I be able to speak to a live person for info?
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hatesnow
2/19/2018 15:03 EST
PanamaJackie: Thanks for info. I'm afraid that being GOVERNMENT facilities O wouldn't get the paperwork back in time? And when would I send the $, it seems they wouldnt do anything before being paid. If I call would I be able to speak to a live person for info?
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RedHatLady
2/19/2018 17:00 EST
My friend who brought her dog to Panama did an overnight and went to the consulate in Miami. Worked great. She did all the paperwork herself. She is visiting me and would be great if you could connect while in Panama.
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RedHatLady
2/19/2018 17:18 EST
“Quarantine” is a joke. Once you leave the airport satisfying an “address” no one checks if you are there. Really a ridiculous requirement considering what you have to pay, etc. it’s all about paying the money and stamping documents. My friend does a funny: pay, pay, stamp, stamp. Not as intimidating as it appears ?? and individuals who want you to pay make it sound complicated. My friend has lived through it and her experience had a learning curve, but all worked out fine. You could benefit from her “learning curve”. Happy Monday. ??
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