Flying to Colombia with a dog
If you are flying to Colombia with a dog you need to satisfy Colombia’s entry rules and your airline’s pet policy. Colombia handles the arrival inspection process and the airline decides whether your dog can travel.
This page covers how to book, what airlines require, the difference between cabin and cargo, and what to do on travel day.
If you need the broader entry rules first start with Can I bring my dog to Colombia?
Book with the airline first
Before you finalize anything confirm the airline accepts pets on your route. Airline rules can vary by aircraft, itinerary, class of service, and even by connection point. So a route that works for one traveler may not work for another. That is why the first step is to check the airline’s pet policy before buying a ticket.
Cabin or cargo
Small dogs can fly in the cabin as long as the meet the airlines size and weight rules. Not every airline or route allows dogs in cabin. If your dog cannot travel in the cabin it will have to go as cargo or checked baggage. The decision of cabin vs cargo often boils down to your dogs size, airline pet policy, and what options are available on your route.
What airlines may ask for
Airlines commonly ask for pet documentation during check-in. The exact paperwork can change based on the carrier. Avianca’s guidance for flights to Colombia says travelers should present an original health certificate, vaccination certificate, and the airlines pet transport form. Even if your airline does not need every document that Colombia requires you should travel with the full entry packet. That was you are ready for the airline check-in and the ICA inspection process when you land in Colombia.
How far ahead should you book?
You should book as early as possible. Pet spaces are limited and airlines often require advance notice before you travel. If you wait too long all the space for dogs on the plane may be full. If your itinerary has connections this matters even more. Each connection has to have space for your dog. If one leg of your trip does not accept dogs the whole trip becomes complicated.
What to do on travel day
Arrive early and allow more time than you normally would. This gives you enough time to go to the airline counter and present your dog’s documentation, go through security, and board the plane. Keep all your originals and copies in your carry-on bag and not checked luggage. This makes it much easier when the airline, airport, or Colombian officials ask for documents.
Flying into Colombia vs flying out
Flying into Colombia is not the same as flying out of Colombia. When you enter Colombia you need to satisfy the import and entry process as well as the airline’s boarding rules. When you leave Colombia you need to satisfy the airline’s rules as well as the ICA exit process.