Panama is pet-friendly thanks to its variety of parks within the city, and a lot of greenery in the countryside. International brands of dog food are available all over the country, and doctors are widely available.
In this article we cover the following:
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Living in an apartment with dogs or cats
Dog owners; be aware. Having your dog in an apartment isn't always the best option. But that is for you to decide, of course. Take in mind that taking the elevator in some buildings might take you 10 minutes (one-way) and that only designated elevators can be used. This means a quick pee for your fur family can take you 30 minutes, of which you were struggling with the elevators for 20 minutes.
For dog owners, a house is a way to go. There are a lot of residential communities across the city that offer you the amenities of an apartment, but also give you a private garden and more quiet streets to walk.
Cat owners; It's recommended to keep your cat inside in Panama. For both apartments as house owners. Having your cat wander freely through Panama exposes it to a lot of traffic (especially in the cities) and other wild animals (especially in the countryside). In the city, you do see people walk their cats on a leash.
Dog parks in Panama City
Dog walking services in Panama City
Across the neighborhoods of San Francisco, Avenida Balboa, Punta Pacifica, and Paitilla, and also in Costa del Este services are offered by people to walk your dog. They mostly walk your dog, together with other dogs, in the morning around 07:00 AM, at Noon, and in the afternoon. Most of the time these "dogsitters" take the dogs to one of the dog parks mentioned above. The best way to find someone you can trust is by asking the neighbors in your community or apartment.
Dog hotels in Panama City
In Europe, it's quite normal for dogs to stay in so-called "Dog Hotels" while the owners are away. Often these "hotels" have cages where your dog stays most of the day. Since moving to Panama in 2016, we have used only one place for our dogs to stay; Mercedes Dog PTY. Mercedes is a dog trainer that, together with her team offers daycare and longer stays for dogs. We are a fan because of the following reasons; 1. Dogs sleep together in open areas, no cages. 2. During their stay you will receive foto and video updates from Mercedes. 3. On request your dog can participate in training. 4. There are trampolines, slides, and pools for your dogs. 5. They have a school bus for dogs that can pick up and drop off your dog at your house! 6. Dog birthday parties on a regular basis. With piñatas, cakes, and a lot of pictures. Personally, we have had such a good experience with Mercedes that we wouldn't recommend anyone else.
Doctors for pets in Panama City
There are a lot of dog clinics in Panama City and Panama West. The problem with the clinics is that they charge quite a lot of money per visit, even if nothing is wrong. There are also doctors to visit your house on appointment to take care of your dog or cat, apply the needed vaccinations, and that's it. If you are looking for someone to check on your pet, make sure to WhatsApp:
- Doctor Elsa: +507 6530-0826
- Doctor Marius from Chibivets: +507 6591-8704. Doctor Marius also helps with moving your dog or cat from and to Panama.
Dog and cat food, medicines, and accessories in Panama
There are several stores that sell international brands of food for your cat. Brands such as NexGard, Acana, Nutrisource, Royal Canin, and Hills Science Diet are very common in Panama. However, the prices are often higher than in the United States or Europe. The most common stores that sell these brands throughout Panama are; Melo Pet and Garden, American Pets, and Novey. For cheaper dog food you can visit PriceSmart. Melo, American Pets, and Novey also sell medicines, toys, and accessories for your pet.
Watch out for snakes, frogs, and other wild animals
If you have your dog (or cat) enjoy the walk without a leash look out for snakes, frogs, and other wild animals. Especially in the countryside of Panama. Most of the frogs in Panama are poisonous and can kill your dog or cat. When walking close to a lake make sure to keep an eye out for crocs.