Planning For Tomorrow

In the United States, over nine in ten people consider their dogs to be members of the family. When Americans choose to relocate to other countries, it is no secret that the transition's impact on the family dog is an extremely important matter. If you are buying international property for yourself and your dog, or to market to Americans, you will be considerably more successful if you know the ins and outs of that country's stance on dogs.

The Republic of Ecuador, located in northwestern South America, is consistently praised as one of the best relocation destinations and best real estate investments for Americans. Thus, buying investment property in Ecuador, either for yourself or to lease to American citizens, is a wise decision. Here is a look at Ecuador's laws on dog importation, and tips for relocating there with a pet.

Importing Dogs Into Ecuador

Ecuador is also very accommodating to pet owners. The country does not have a mandatory quarantine. Before relocating to Ecuador, American dog owners must provide proof of up-to-date vaccinations, and the dog must also pass a parasite test. Furthermore, a veterinarian must complete an official exam and find the dog in good health. The pet owner should call the Ecuadorian Agency of Quality Assurance in Agriculture three days prior to arrival.

Things That American Dog Owners Should Consider

Whether you are purchasing property for yourself or for other Americans, learn how relocation will impact family dogs.

For example, the mean elevation in the United States is 2,500 feet. Ecuador, on the other hand, has a much higher elevation. The capital is 9,000 feet above sea level! Altitude sickness affects not only people, but also pets. An American dog relocating to Ecuador must overcome this altitude difference, and older dogs and dogs with respiratory illnesses will not adjust as well as younger, healthier animals.

Also, the selection of pet foods available in Ecuador will differ from those available in the United States. Before relocating to Ecuador, an American should find out what kind of food the dog will eat in Ecuador, and slowly wean the dog off of the American food and to the new food. As an alternative, the dog can switch to a homemade diet that will be continued once in Ecuador.

Consider, also, that Ecuador has its own wildlife and insect populations that differ from those here in the United States. As a result, all American dogs should visit an Ecuadorian veterinarian as soon as possible after arrival to ensure that the pet is protected against current diseases and parasites.

Parting Thoughts

More and more people are relocating to countries outside of the United States, including Ecuador. The more that you know about how this relocation will affect family dogs, the more smoothly your personal relocation will be. Or, if you are purchasing Ecuadorian property for the purpose of marketing it to Americans, this knowledge will better prepare your clients in their own relocations.