In many cases, pets are valued as family members as much, if not more, than our traditional two legged members. As a result, their comfort and safety when traveling are as big a concern as ours. The following provides information that can help you make the best decisions for your pets travel needs.

Your dog or cat must have papers proving that a rabies vaccine was administered atleast thirty days, but not more than 180 days prior to entry into Panama.

You must take your pet to the vet for a complete health check as well as to get a certificate for international travel. This health certificate for international travel must be completed within 10 days of the date you plan to travel to Panama.

You must then have your pet´s certificate of international travel stamped by the nearest Panamanian Embassy or Consulate. –These stamps cost approximately $30.00.

Some things to consider when choosing an airline for your pets are:

1. Some airlines have embargos on pet transport during extreme summer or winter months.
2. Most airlines will allow you to take your pet in the cabin with you as long as your pet meets certain weight and size restrictions.
3. There is usually an extra fee associated with bringing pets. Some airlines charge according to the weight of the animal others charge a flat rate.
4. If at all possible, try to arrange for your pet´s flights to be as direct as possible. The less time your pet has to spend traveling, the less stress he will experience.

One you arrive in Panama with your pet, you must then pay a fee of $130 USD. You must also take an oath agreeing to home quarantine your pet for 40 days.

1. If any of the above steps are neglected it is possible that the authorities will take your pet upon arrival to Panama to be quarantined for 40 days at the airport vet facilities at a cost of 12 USD per day. In most cases these facilities are not as plush as what your pet may be accustomed to.
2. The airport vet is the only person who can approve your animals papers and release your pet. The normal hours of the airport vet are between 9AM to 12PM Monday through Friday. And 1PM to 4PM Monday through Thursday. With this in mind, try to arrange the arrival or your pet´s flight according to the airport vets work schedule.

Although the Atlantic and Pacific Coasts of Panama are separated by only 50 miles at their narrowest point, there is a World of difference between the two.

Most noticeable is the difference in weather. Due mostly to the Trade Winds, the Caribbean Coast of Panama receives nearly twice as much rain as the Pacific. The Pacific Coast of Panama has much more predictable weather patterns with a Dry season for the months of January to May and a Rainy Season from June through December.

There is also a remarkable difference in the tides between the two coasts. The Pacific has tide variances of about 12 to 18 feet while the Caribbean experiences changes of less than 18 inches. This usually makes for the less cloudy waters and more abundant coral reefs on the Caribbean, but much larger and plentiful surf breaks on the Pacific Coast.

The Gulf Stream brings nutrient rich waters, and the game fish that thrive in them making the Pacific Coast unparalleled when it comes to sport fishing. Along with the game fish come other marine life such as whales, sea turtles, porpoise and whale sharks (as impressive in their size as in their gentleness).

Socially, the Pacific coast is more developed than the Atlantic coast. Panama City, the country’s capital resides on the Pacific, and with it comes the country’s banking sector, transportation hub, finest healthcare facilities, latest technology, best dining, resorts and luxury. The Caribbean, however, boasts the Worlds second largest free trade zone.