Can I Bring My Pet to Ecuador?

Short Answer: Yes

You can bring dogs and cats to Ecuador. The process requires specific documents, vaccinations, and timing, but thousands of expats have successfully brought their pets.

Basic Requirements

For Dogs and Cats:

✅ Microchip (ISO 15-digit) ✅ Rabies vaccination (21+ days old, less than 1 year old) ✅ Health certificate from vet (within 10 days of travel) ✅ USDA endorsement of health certificate (within 10 days) ✅ Import permit from Ecuador (Agrocalidad)

Timing is Critical

The order and timing matter:

1. Microchip first
2. Rabies vaccine (21+ days before travel)
3. Health certificate (within 10 days of travel)
4. USDA endorsement (within 10 days of travel)
5. Travel

Step-by-Step Process (US to Ecuador)

3-6 Months Before Travel:

1. Microchip

• ISO 15-digit microchip required
• Vet can install ($25-75)
• Must be done before rabies vaccine

2. Rabies Vaccination

• Must be at least 21 days before travel
• Must be less than 1 year old
• Vet records vaccination
• Keep certificate

3. Apply for Ecuador Import Permit

• Website: agrocalidad.gob.ec
• Apply online
• Cost: ~$30
• Takes 1-2 weeks
• Valid for 60 days

10 Days Before Travel:

4. Veterinary Health Certificate

• Visit USDA-accredited veterinarian
• Within 10 days of travel
• Vet examines pet and certifies healthy
• Form 7001 (USDA International Health Certificate)
• Cost: $100-200

5. USDA Endorsement

• Take health certificate to USDA office
• They endorse (stamp/sign) the certificate
• Must be done within 10 days of travel
• Cost: $38 per certificate
• Can do by mail (risky timing) or in person

USDA Offices (for in-person):

• Find nearest: aphis.usda.gov/travel
• Appointment recommended
• Processing: Same day if in person

Day of Travel:

6. Arrive Early at Airport

• 3-4 hours before flight (not 2 hours)
• Check pet in with airline
• Pay airline pet fee ($100-200 typically)
• Provide all documents to airline staff

Arrival in Ecuador:

7. Clear Customs

• Present all documents to Agrocalidad inspector
• They verify microchip matches documents
• Inspect health certificate and USDA endorsement
• Review import permit
• Approve entry

Takes: 30-60 minutes typically if documents correct

Required Documents Checklist

Print and bring originals + copies:

• Microchip certificate
• Rabies vaccination certificate (21+ days old, <1 year old)
• USDA Form 7001 (Health Certificate) - original with USDA endorsement
• Ecuador import permit from Agrocalidad
• Pet's photo (sometimes requested)
• Your passport
• Flight itinerary

Airline Options

Best Airlines for Pets (US to Ecuador):

1. United Airlines

• Allows pets in cabin (under 20 lbs in carrier)
• Cargo hold for larger pets
• Direct flights from Houston to Quito
• Cost: $125 in cabin, $200-400 cargo

2. American Airlines

• In cabin or cargo
• Flights via Miami
• Cost: Similar to United

3. LATAM

• Latin American airline
• Experienced with pet transport
• Multiple daily flights
• Cost: $150-300

4. Avianca

• Also experienced with pets
• Via Bogotá or other hubs
• Cost: Similar pricing

In-Cabin vs. Cargo:

In-Cabin (Preferred):

• Pet + carrier under 20 lbs total
• Carrier fits under seat (soft-sided)
• Pet stays with you entire flight
• Much less stressful for pet

Cargo (For Larger Pets):

• Temperature-controlled cargo hold
• Special crate required (IATA approved)
• More stressful for pet
• Some airlines restrict during hot months

Costs Breakdown

US-Side Costs:

• Microchip: $25-75
• Rabies vaccination: $20-50
• USDA-accredited vet visit: $100-200
• USDA endorsement: $38
• Ecuador import permit: ~$30
• Subtotal: $213-393

Airline:

• In-cabin: $125-150
• Cargo: $200-400

Total: $338-793 per pet

Crate/Carrier Requirements

In-Cabin:

• Soft-sided carrier
• Must fit under seat
• Maximum dimensions vary by airline (typical: 18"x11"x11")
• Pet must be able to stand and turn around
• Cost: $30-80

Cargo:

• Hard-sided IATA-approved crate
• Ventilation on 3-4 sides
• "Live Animal" stickers
• Food/water dishes
• Pet must stand, turn, lie down comfortably
• Cost: $80-300 depending on size

Quarantine?

Good news: No quarantine required if documents are in order.

Your pet clears customs and goes home with you immediately.

Veterinary Care in Ecuador

Availability:

• Cuenca: Multiple good vets, some speak English
• Quito: Excellent vet care, more English speakers
• Coastal towns: Basic vet care available

Costs (Much Cheaper Than US):

• Vet visit: $15-30
• Vaccinations: $10-25
• Spay/neuter: $50-120
• Emergency care: $50-200

English-Speaking Vets:

Available in major expat cities. Ask expat community for recommendations.

Pet-Friendly Housing

Cuenca:

• Most rentals allow small pets
• Some buildings restrict dogs over 30 lbs
• Pet deposit common ($100-200)

Finding Pet-Friendly Rentals:

• Specify pet in rental search
• Be upfront with landlord
• Offer pet deposit
• Provide references

Difficulty: Moderate. Takes longer to find but possible.

Pet Supplies in Ecuador

Available:

• Basic pet food
• Toys
• Leashes, collars
• Basic medications

Limited/Expensive:

• Specialty pet food (may not find your brand)
• High-end toys
• Specific medications

Recommendation: Bring 2-3 months of specialty food/meds while you find local alternatives.

Common Breeds Restrictions

Good news: Ecuador doesn't ban specific breeds like some countries.

But:

• Some apartment buildings may restrict large dogs
• Insurance may affect certain breeds
• Local attitudes toward pit bulls vary

Generally: More accepting than US of various breeds.

Multiple Pets

Can you bring multiple pets? Yes!

Process:

• Same documents for each pet
• Each pet needs own health certificate, import permit
• USDA endorsement for each
• Airlines limit number per passenger (usually 1-2)

Cost: Multiply everything by number of pets.

Tip: If bringing 3+ pets, consider spacing arrivals or having family members each bring one.

What About Other Pets?

Birds:

More complicated. Additional permits, quarantine may apply. Consult avian specialist.

Reptiles:

Very difficult. CITES permits required for many species. Not recommended.

Small Mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters):

Challenging. Fewer airline options. Some restrictions. Check with embassy.

Recommendation: Dogs and cats are most straightforward.

Returning to US

If you eventually return to US with pet:

US Requirements:

• Rabies vaccination certificate
• Health certificate (some states)
• That's it (much simpler than entering Ecuador)

Pet must have had rabies vaccine in Ecuador (widely available).

Weather Considerations

Highlands (Cuenca, Quito):

• Mild year-round (50-70°F)
• Good for most breeds
• No extreme heat/cold

Coast:

• Hot and humid (80-95°F)
• Challenging for cold-weather breeds
• Consider short-haired breeds or dogs okay with heat

Tip: Avoid bringing Huskies to the coast. They'll be miserable.

Common Challenges

Challenge #1: Timing USDA Endorsement

Problem: Health cert must be within 10 days of travel, but getting USDA appointment can be tricky.

Solution: Schedule USDA appointment first, then work backwards for vet appointment.

Challenge #2: Language Barrier at Ecuador Customs

Problem: Agrocalidad inspectors may not speak English.

Solution:

• Have documents printed clearly
• Hire pet import service (~$100) to meet you
• Use translation app

Challenge #3: Airline Changes Policy

Problem: Airlines sometimes change pet policies with little notice.

Solution:

• Book early
• Confirm pet reservation separately
• Reconfirm 48 hours before travel

Challenge #4: Pet Stress During Travel

Problem: Travel is stressful for pets.

Solution:

• Consult vet about anti-anxiety meds (if appropriate)
• Calming pheromone sprays
• Favorite toy/blanket in carrier
• Direct flights when possible

Pet Import Services

Want someone else to handle it?

Pet relocation services:

• Handle all paperwork
• Coordinate vet appointments
• USDA endorsement
• Meet you at Ecuador airport
• Cost: $500-1,500

Worth it if:

• You're overwhelmed
• You have multiple pets
• You can't easily get to USDA office
• You value peace of mind

Ecuador Pet Culture

Generally Pet-Friendly:

• Dogs often off-leash (Cuenca parks)
• Cats roam freely
• Veterinary care affordable
• Pet shops and supplies available

But Different:

• Less "pet as family" culture than US
• Some strays (getting better in cities)
• Not all restaurants allow pets
• Fewer "dog parks" than US

Expat Pet Community:

• Active in Cuenca, Quito
• Facebook groups for pet owners
• Organize dog walks, events
• Share vet recommendations

Real Expat Stories

Sarah, brought 2 small dogs to Cuenca:

"Process was intimidating but manageable. I used a pet relocation service for peace of mind ($800). Dogs flew in-cabin with me from Miami. Ecuador customs took 45 minutes. Dogs have adjusted great—love the parks in Cuenca."

Tom, brought large dog in cargo:

"My 70-lb lab flew cargo via United. I was terrified but he did fine. The USDA paperwork was the hardest part—had to drive 3 hours to USDA office. Worth it to have him here."

Bob, DIY process:

"I did everything myself, saved money on relocation service. The key is starting early and being organized. My cat flew in cabin. Total cost ~$400. Would do it again."

Tips for Success

1. Start Early

Begin process 3-6 months before move. Don't wait until last minute.

2. Use Spreadsheet

Track every requirement, date, document. Easy to miss something.

3. Get USDA-Accredited Vet

Not all vets can complete Form 7001. Verify vet is USDA-accredited.

4. Multiple Copies

Bring 3 copies of every document. Officials may keep copies.

5. Direct Flights When Possible

Reduces stress and risk of missed connections.

6. Join Pet Facebook Groups

"Pets in Ecuador," "Cuenca Ecuador Expats" - ask questions, learn from others.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the process take?

3-6 months if you include rabies vaccine timing. The USDA portion is just the last 10 days.

Can my pet fly in cabin?

If under 20 lbs with carrier, yes on most airlines.

Is there quarantine?

No, if documents are correct.

What if my pet is older and can't travel?

Difficult decision. Some expats leave pets with family. No easy answer.

Can I use a pet relocation service?

Yes, costs $500-1,500 but handles everything.

Are certain breeds restricted?

No breed bans in Ecuador, but some housing may restrict large dogs.

Need Help?

EcuaPass can:

• Provide detailed checklist for your specific situation
• Recommend pet relocation services
• Connect you with English-speaking vets in Ecuador
• Help coordinate your move with pet timing

Contact us: WhatsApp: +593-096-284-8410

Don't leave your furry family member behind. Thousands of expats have successfully brought pets to Ecuador. You can too.