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Bringing a dog or cat into Paraguay: certificate and timing
Short answer
To enter Paraguay with a dog or cat, SENACSA requires an International Veterinary Certificate (CVI) at the entry-point inspection. MERCOSUR Resolution 20/2024 sets the rabies vaccination, parasite treatment and clinical-examination rules behind that certificate. Arrange the dates with the veterinary authority in your departure country before booking transport. The companion-animal route covers up to 5 dogs or cats; groups of 6 or more follow live-animal import rules. Official sources checked September 26, 2026.
Check that your animals qualify as pets
SENACSA treats domestic dogs and cats in groups of up to 5 as companion animals. From 6 animals, live-animal commercial import rules apply. Ask SENACSA about species other than dogs and cats before planning their entry. Confirm carrier and crate conditions with your transport provider as well; the MERCOSUR resolution puts transport preparation on the animal's responsible person.
Check rabies timing before choosing a departure date
Dogs and cats aged 90 days or more must enter with current rabies vaccination. After a first vaccination, departure from the exporting country can be authorized only once 21 days have passed. A booster given after the previous vaccination expired is treated as a first dose. For an animal under 90 days, the resolution allows a documented exception in the CVI with a declaration about no contact with urban rabies; confirm this with the origin authority before travel.
Schedule parasite treatment, examination and the CVI
Resolution 20/2024 requires broad-spectrum treatment against internal and external parasites within 15 days before CVI issue, and a clinical examination by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days before issue. Then obtain the original CVI from the exporting country's veterinary authority. The resolution gives it 60 days of validity from issue while rabies certification remains current. Check that authority's processing time and any extra requirements for your route.
Present the certificate when you arrive
At the Paraguayan entry point, show the CVI to the SENACSA inspector for a document and animal-health check. Keep the vaccination and treatment records used for the application in case clarification is needed. Under the resolution, you retain the original CVI after inspection. Missing requirements can lead to sanitary measures, including returning the animal at the owner's expense.