We did not forget those of you who have pets. There are
procedures for bringing your pets into the country that require
very little except patience, some paperwork and a small fee.
If you want to bring a pet into the country by land or air it is best
to follow the following procedure to insure that there are no
snags. First, a registered veterinarian from your hometown must
certify that your pets are free of internal and external parasites. It
is advisable that your pet have up-to-date vaccinations against
distemper, leptospirosis, hepatitis and parvovirus and a rabies
vaccination within the last three years.
f the animal is traveling with you as part of your luggage, the
average rate is $50 US from one destination to the next (i.e. Los
Angeles--Miami--San José). If your pet travels alone,
depending on size and weight, the average rate is between $100
to $200 US. Please consult your airline for the actual price. Call


the 800 toll-free cargo section of American Airlines and they will
tell you the cost.
Whether your pet is traveling with you or separately, be aware
that the weather can delay your animals arrival in Nicaragua. If
the temperature is above 85 degrees or below 40 degrees at
either your point of departure or a layover, your animal will not
be able to travel. We know of several people who have arrived at
the airport only to find out their animals could not travel due to
a change in the weather. Call your airline the day you intend to
ship your animal and again an hour or two before departure to
see if your animal will be allowed to travel. This way you can
avoid unpleasant surprises.
Also make sure your dog or cat has an airline approved portable
kennel. These rules are very strict and the kennel must be the
appropriate size for your animal or it won't be allowed to travel.
Some airlines rent kennels. Make sure your kennel has a small
tray so your pet can have food and water during the journey. Two
to eight hours is a long time to go without food or water.
If there is a layover involved, as in Miami, the baggage handlers
will give water to your pet. The operator at American Airlines
told us about a special service, which will walk your dog for an
extra charge at some airports. Some people suggest tranquilizing
dogs and cats when shipping them by plane. We talked to our vet
when we were going to ship our large Siberian husky, and he
didn't seem to think it was a good idea. We also asked a friend
who ships show dogs all over the U.S. and he said to use our
own judgment since tranquilizers can make an animal ill.
Additional information is available from a Nicaraguan consulate
in the U.S. or Canada.


Most veterinarians offer the same services as in the U.S. or
Canada surgery, neutering, shots, medicines, bathing of animals,
haircuts, boarding, accessories and much more.
Veterinarians:
Bosques de Altamira
278-2466
Clínica Veterinaria Dr. Solorzano
222-3205
Centro Médico Veterinario
265-8601
Dr. Murillo
222-2279
Dr. Morazán
256-8269 or 265-8605


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