Planning to bring your dog to the Philippines? Whether you are relocating, going on vacation, or staying long-term, the Philippines is a pet-friendly country but has strict rules to protect animals and public health Philippines dog import permit. To ensure a smooth journey for your furry friend, you must follow the guidelines set by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) and prepare the necessary documents.
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about how to bring your dog to the Philippines safely and without hassle.
1. Understanding Pet Import Rules in the Philippines
The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) regulates the importation of pets into the Philippines. Dogs are welcome, but specific requirements must be met to ensure your pet is healthy and disease-free.
Key requirements include:
An import permit issued by BAI.
A valid health certificate from your home country.
Updated vaccination records.
Inspection upon arrival at a Philippine airport.
2. Required Documents for Bringing a Dog to the Philippines
Before traveling, prepare all the required documents to avoid delays:
a) Import Permit
Apply for an import permit from the Bureau of Animal Industry.
You can apply online via the BAI website or visit their office.
Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your planned arrival.
b) Health Certificate
Obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian in your home country.
It should confirm that your dog is healthy and free from contagious diseases.
The certificate must be issued within 7 days before departure.
c) Vaccination Records
Your dog must be vaccinated against:
Rabies (at least 30 days before travel)
Distemper, parvovirus, and leptospirosis (recommended)
Keep both the original vaccination card and copies with you.
d) Microchip Certificate (Optional but Recommended)
While not mandatory, having your dog microchipped can make identification easier if required by authorities or airlines.
3. Choosing the Right Airline for Pet Travel
Several airlines flying to the Philippines allow pets, including Philippine Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific.
When booking:
Check whether pets are allowed in-cabin or as checked baggage/cargo.
Use an IATA-approved travel crate that ensures your dog’s comfort and safety.
Book early since airlines have limited slots for pets on each flight.
Confirm your airline’s pet travel policies before buying tickets.
4. Preparing Your Dog for the Journey
Traveling to the Philippines can be long and tiring for pets, so proper preparation is essential:
Crate training: Familiarize your dog with the crate weeks before traveling.
Hydration and feeding: Give your dog water before the flight but avoid heavy meals right before departure.
Identification tag: Attach a tag with your name, phone number, and destination address.
Vet check-up: Schedule a final health check to ensure your dog is fit to travel.
5. Arrival in the Philippines and Customs Check
Upon arrival at a Philippine international airport like Manila, Cebu, or Davao, your dog will go through an inspection by BAI officers:
Your documents and vaccination records will be checked.
If everything is correct, you can take your dog home immediately.
If documents are missing or vaccinations are incomplete, your dog may be placed in quarantine until cleared.
6. Living and Traveling with Your Dog in the Philippines
The Philippines is a great place for dog owners, with many pet-friendly hotels, parks, and cafes. However, there are a few rules to follow:
Dogs must be registered with the local veterinary office in some cities.
Keep your dog on a leash in public areas.
Be careful of stray animals, especially in urban and rural areas.
Always carry your dog’s vaccination records in case authorities request them.
7. Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience
Start preparing at least 4–6 weeks before your trip.
Apply for the import permit early to avoid delays.
Carry both original documents and photocopies.
Choose direct flights whenever possible to reduce stress.
Confirm all airline and BAI regulations before finalizing plans.
Conclusion
Bringing your dog to the Philippines is straightforward if you plan ahead and prepare all necessary documents. By obtaining an import permit, keeping vaccinations updated, and booking a pet-friendly airline, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your furry companion.
