What To Expect When You Visit A Vet In Brazil

Moving to a foreign country is no easy feat. The move itself is usually an undertaking of major proportions. And if your family includes pets, that multiplies exponentially. Once you arrive, life is different – in some cases, very different. As a pet parent, you’ll feel more comfortable if you can get your furry companion’s necessities squared away early on. That includes finding a veterinarian. 

Figuring out how to function in a new country such as Brazil can feel daunting. With so much to learn about your new home, the last thing you want to worry about is what might happen if your beloved dog or cat gets sick or injured. If he takes regular medication, you’ll need a vet to refill that prescription. So identifying a vet and learning what to expect when you visit them can be a big relief. 

Big on pets, but short on space

Brazil ranks 4^th in the world in total cat population. About 18% of households have at least one pet cat. When it comes to dogs, Brazil doesn’t even rank in the top 20 for total population, but almost half of households have at least one pet dog. 

Many Brazilians live in tiny apartments. So while popularity of pet ownership has grown tremendously, the smallest pets remain most in demand for purely practical reasons. In 2012, it was reported that 55% of pet dogs in Brazil weighed 20 pounds or less. But if your pooch is considerably larger, no worries – as long as you’ll have room to accommodate him. Brazil welcomes all breeds of dogs and cats. 

Don’t expect Brazil to have all the comforts of home

The country has experienced tremendous change over the past decade or two. A multitude of international companies now operate in Brazil, and that has meant an influx of corporate-sponsored expats as well as individuals looking for a new adventure. But Brazil’s economy fluctuates, and as interesting as the country’s culture may be, it’s still a far cry from the US or the UK. 

Some expat groups say it’s relatively easy to find veterinary care, pet supplies and other services such as grooming -- at least in the largest cities. Many vets do speak English. Brazil’s Federal Council of Veterinary Medicine licenses vets in the country. That requires a diploma from an officially recognized veterinary school that is registered with the Ministry of Education and Culture, or a degree from a foreign vet school. 

Nonetheless, you might think of Brazil as something of a “developing country” when it comes to pet care. Throughout the country, dogs and cats continue to be problematic hosts to a variety of parasites, some of which can affect humans as well as dogs and/or cats. 

To import your pet, Brazil requires only that your pet be treated for internal and external parasites (such as ticks and tapeworms) within 15 days of entry, and that he has a current rabies vaccination. Brazil recognizes the 3-year vaccine but recommends a booster within a year of moving to Brazil. It is also recommended that both dogs and cats receive polyvalent (multi-purpose) immunizations. 

While the requirements are minimal, veterinarians in Brazil do offer a wide variety of vaccines for dogs and cats. To protect your pet’s health and safety, you should discuss these options with your new vet.  

Some things that are sure to be different in Brazil are the native wildlife and vegetation. If your dog or cat has a tendency to explore, you’ll want to keep a close eye on him. In particular, you’ll want to ask your new vet what local plants may be poisonous. And which animals, insects, snakes, etc. are potentially dangerous. You should also be aware that your pet could develop new allergies. 

If you’re moving to Brazil, you’ll need a sense of humor and a strong sense of adventure. Our expert team here at Starwood Animal Transport won’t be able to care for your pet once you’re settled into your new home. But we can ensure your precious four-legged friend has the safest, most comfortable journey getting there, whether you’re traveling to Brazil or anywhere in Latin America.