Bringing your dog from the United States to the Philippines—and later returning to the US—can feel complicated, especially with changing rules, airline requirements, and government permits. This guide how to bring dogs from US to Manila is written for pet owners actively searching online for clear, real-world information about costs, procedures, airlines, quarantine, and documents needed.
By the way, this is especially helpful for owners flying large dogs, dogs traveling in cargo, and families relocating or doing long stays. These flights that brought these ORDINARY dogs (not service animals/emotional support animal) departed from San Francis San Francisco International Airport (SFO) Airline via Philippine Airlines then back. Philippine Airlines is generally not strict about kennel brand, but pricing is based on actual kennel measurements and total weight at airport check-in.
Is the Philippines Pet-Friendly for Incoming Dogs?
Yes, but the Philippines is classified as a high-risk rabies country, which means dogs entering the country must meet strict import requirements. The process is very doable if you prepare early and follow each step carefully. Rules may differ if you are traveling from a low-risk rabies country, but this guide focuses on USA to Philippines and vice versa.
Important Veterinary Requirement You Should Know First
The veterinarian who performs your dog’s pre-departure physical exam must be a vet who issues international health certificates. Not all veterinary clinics offer this service, so you should call ahead and confirm before booking an appointment.
If your dog’s rabies vaccination expires while you are in the Philippines, the dog must be revaccinated locally, which can add extra requirements when returning to the United States. Always plan vaccine validity around your travel dates.
Example Dog and Flight Profile (Real-World Reference)
This guide is based on flying large, non-service dogs via cargo.
Dog sizes
Mixed breed – 72 lbs
Great Pyrenees – 80 lbs
Kennel size used
40L x 27W x 30H
Airlines That Allow Dogs From the USA to the Philippines
Philippine Airlines is one of the most commonly used airlines for pet transport to Manila because they allow dogs to travel in cargo on direct flights.
If you are flying with a different airline, always call them directly and ask about
pet cargo availability
breed restrictions
temperature embargoes
aircraft type approval
Service dogs have different rules and must be coordinated directly with the airline.
Requirements Before Applying for a Philippine Pet Import Permit
You must complete the following before submitting your application.
Your dog must be microchipped.
Vaccinations must be updated and valid
Rabies
Leptospirosis
DA2PP
Bordetella
Your dog must receive a deworming pill from a licensed veterinarian.
You must prepare digital copies of
Microchip registration proof from the microchip website
Veterinary record showing updated vaccinations and the date the deworming pill was given
These records must be combined into one file for upload.
You must also have a clear photo of your dog.
How to Apply for a Philippine Dog Import Permit
Once all requirements are complete, you apply for the import permit through the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) system via Intercommerce.
You will need to create an account and complete the application online.
During the upload section, you only need
Microchip proof
Vaccination and deworming record
Dog photo
The vaccination and deworming record must also be reuploaded under the “Pet Passport” section.
Import Permit Approval and Final Vet Appointment
After approval, save the permit and print at least five copies.
Within 10 days of departure, schedule a physical exam with your international-certificate vet.
On the same day as the physical exam, the dog must receive another dose of deworming medication.
Request a physical copy of the health certificate, even if the vet issues it electronically.
Print at least five copies each of
Health certificate
BAI import permit
CDC permit receipt
Rabies certificate
Microchip and vaccination records
CDC Permit Requirement for Philippine Airlines
Philippine Airlines requires a CDC dog import/export permit. This permit is free.
Once submitted, you will receive a receipt by email within minutes. Print multiple copies.
Departure Day Tips When Flying From the USA
If possible, submit documents online through the airline’s system in advance. If not, you may present printed copies at the check-in desk.
If your dog is flying in cargo with Philippine Airlines, bring at least 10 heavy-duty zip ties. Airport staff will secure the kennel with zip ties before loading.
Actual cost from San Francisco to Manila
Approximately USD 1,000 per dog
Final cost is determined at the airport based on kennel size and weight.
Arrival Process at NAIA (Manila)
Dogs are released near the baggage claim area.
Proceed with your dogs to the quarantine office on the same floor.
Present your documents for inspection.
Pay the quarantine fee of approximately ₱490.
After clearance, you may exit the airport with your dogs.
Returning to the United States With Your Dog
Before departure from the Philippines, obtain a health certificate from any licensed veterinarian within three days of departure. Inform the vet that your dog is returning to the United States.
Confirm with the airline that your specific aircraft allows dogs in cargo.
Apply again for the CDC dog import permit using the same online system.
If you did not submit documents online, you may present them at the airport.
Departure From NAIA When Returning to the USA
At NAIA, the airline will measure your dog and kennel.
You will be sent to the quarantine office to present documents such as
Rabies certificate
Microchip records
Health certificate
After verification, you will receive a BAI export permit.
You will then return to the airline counter to pay the pet cargo fee.
Typical cost for return flight
Approximately USD 600 per dog
Arrival in the United States
Dogs are released at the designated animal pickup area near baggage claim.
Customs officers will check your documents.
Once cleared, you may exit the airport with your dog.
Final Thoughts for Pet Owners Traveling USA to Philippines
Bringing dogs between the United States and the Philippines is absolutely possible, even for large breeds, as long as you prepare early and follow each requirement carefully.
The most important factors are
complete documentation
valid vaccinations
approved airline
proper kennel sizing
For pet owners relocating, visiting family, or staying long-term in the Philippines, understanding both Philippine and US requirements makes the entire journey far less stressful.
Huge thank you to Miss Julia Darling, a Filipina living in Utah for sharing her personal experience when she brought her two dogs that were the basis of this guide. You can send her message HERE if you have questions.
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