The Canine Concierge

It all depends where you're traveling to and from, but we generally suggest that four months before travel is a comfortable starting point, especially if your pet’s vaccinations need updating first. That said, we can move much faster when needed. Our expedited service can turn around a permit the same day if your documentation is already in order.

Confirm your pet’s rabies vaccination is current and check that they’re microchipped. Everything else in the process builds on those two things being in place.

At least 6 months old on the day of travel.

For dogs traveling into The Bahamas or the US, dogs need a current rabies vaccine plus DHPP, which covers distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, leptospirosis, and adenovirus (coronavirus can be included in the combination shot). Cats need a current rabies vaccine plus FVRCP-FeLV, which covers feline leukemia, rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and pneumonitis.

For dogs traveling to other countries, it will be dependent on the respective country's laws.

If your pet has the 1 year vaccine, it needs to have been given no less than 1 month and no more than 10 months before your travel date. If your pet has the 3 year vaccine, the window is no less than 1 month and no more than 34 months before travel.

Yes, with an approved chip type such as Avid, Trovan, or HomeAgain.

Yes. Pitbulls, Presa Canarios, Cane Corsos, American Bullies, Staffordshire Terriers, and Dogo Argentinos (including mixes of these breeds) are not permitted for dogs. Savannah Cats, Bengal Cats, and Chausies (including mixes) are not permitted for cats. We always confirm breed eligibility before starting any paperwork, so there are no surprises later in the process.

Yes, all pets including certified service animals need an import permit to enter The Bahamas and to travel internationally.

Six months from your intended arrival date, so minor schedule changes won’t put you back at square one. Each permit is for a single entry though, so a new one is needed each time you bring your pet back into the country.

Yes, as long as you know your intended travel dates. Applying early takes one variable off your plate. 

Printing is strongly recommended since it speeds up processing at arrival. A phone copy will work in a pinch, but a customs officer will need to photograph or print it on the spot, which adds time to your arrival.

Your pet’s current vaccine record and a recent photo. We’ll flag anything additional as we review your specific situation.

This is where we’re different from a paperwork-only service. If you are unable to travel with your pet, we offer to accompany your pet on the flight and this is available under the International Travel Accompaniment tier.

If you prefer to travel with your pet, we an advise on travel carriers and can handle the permitting paperwork on your behalf.