mexico travel dog

How To Travel To Mexico With Your Dog: A Complete Guide

About the author

I have always wanted to travel to Mexico with my dog, but I was curious what it actually takes to get them there. So, I did some in-depth research and here is what I discovered.

What You Need In Order To Travel To Mexico With Your Dog

In order to travel to Mexico with your dog, a health certificate is no longer needed. However, your dog needs to be in a clean, approved carrier, and you will need to visit the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA) to contact the appropriate employee working with SENASICA. The office worker will check for the following on your dog:

Your dog does not show signs of infectious and contagious diseases
Your dog is free of ectoparasites (ticks and fleas)
Your dog is free of any open and healing wounds

If your dog does happen to have parasites, you will need to contact a veterinarian to receive the appropriate treatment. If ticks are detected, the employee will take a sample of the ectoparasite, and send it off to the official laboratory for further testing. As well, they will verify that all parasites are removed from your dog.

Your dog will have to be kept at the OISA official Mexican office until the lab concludes the parasites are not foreign to Mexico. If so, SENASICA ultimately decides what steps to take next. Any expenses that may arise such as veterinarian costs, are expected to be paid by you (the importer).

If your dog is currently going through treatment for lesions or infections on the skin, you must bring a Veterinarian’s results and treatment in letterhead, along with their professional registration number.

It’s very important that the carrier your dog arrives in, is clean. Anything that is inside the carrier will be tossed out. If your dog has a favorite toy, don’t put it in there. A disinfectant will will be applied on your carrier, but this is expected.

NOTE: If traveling to Mexico with your dog on an airplane, airlines may have their own policies and requirements that you will need to adhere to; separate from your destination requirements.

See also: Planning Your Perfect Wedding In Mexico: Everything You Need To Know

Bringing Your Dog’s Food To Mexico

As far as bringing your dog’s food to Mexico, that a big no-no . You can only bring the amount of food your dog will eat on the day of arrival. Any additional food will be discarded.

Depending if you are heading to a large or small city in Mexico, they may or may not carry the brand of dog food your dog is use to eating.

If you are planning on staying in Mexico for at least a few weeks with your dog and you want to buy the correct dog food , just order it on Amazon.com and have it shipped to your location in Mexico.

The Cost To Fly Your Dog To Mexico

The average fee for a one-way flight to Mexico for your dog, ranges from $99 to $125. That does not include potential additional fees such as veterinarian costs; dog food, and an airline accepted pet crate, for a total ranging anywhere from $350 to $650 for a round-trip flight for your dog from the U.S. to Mexico.

These are rough estimates and greatly depend upon what you still need for your dog. If your dog is a registered service dog, the flight fee is usually waived, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars.

If you already have a pet crate that is acceptable for the airline you are flying with, then you save yourself another $50 to $150. So you may end up only spending money on your dog’s food and veterinarian costs, which can range from $50 to $100.

See also: Mexico Travel Insurance: Is It Worth It

However, if you’re anything like me and you still have to purchase everything for your dog before your flight to Mexico; expect to spend closer to the $500 to $600 mark for a round-trip flight for your dog.

Flying To Mexico With Your Dog

If you are trying to get to Mexico with your dog via airplane, this may require some additional documents and fees (ranging from $99 to $125 each way). Some airlines may require that your dog has a health certificate from a certified veterinarian to ensure that your dog is in good condition for flying.

Here is a list of airlines that currently allow dogs to fly internationally to Mexico, and which ones require a health certificate:

Flying With Your Dog In-Cabin

Many airlines will allow your dog to travel with you in-cabin however; there are strict requirements enforced by each airline.

Some things to take into consideration when flying with your dog in-cabin are your dog’s weight, the weight and type of carrier your dog is in, and the age of your dog (must be at least 16 weeks old for international flights to Mexico).

Here is the maximum weight and required carrier size for each airline:

When flying with your dog in-cabin, your dog must remain in its carrier at all times. The kennel must remain at your feet, under the seat in front of you.

See also: Top Mexico Travel Tips To Know For A First-Timer

As well, you are not able to sit in an emergency exit row if you have your pet with you as a carry-on, so check your seating arrangement to make sure this in not the case.

Flying With A Large Dog To Mexico

If you are flying with a dog that is either too heavy or too large, or maybe even both, you should consider checking your dog in with the luggage.

Your dog will then be placed in the cargo area of the plane, securely strapped down in its carrier. You must have your dog in a solid carrier that is approved for air transportation, each airline have their own requirements and limitations.

Here is a chart stating what each airline’s requirements and limitations are for checking your oversized dog in as luggage:

If you need to check your dog in prior to your flight, it is recommended that you show up 3-4 hours before your departure, this will allow you enough time to get everything squared away.

Is It Safe For Your Dog To Fly In Cargo

Overall, it is safe for your dog to fly in the cargo area of the plane. Your dog is required to be in a hard-shelled carrier with proper ventilation, which will be tied down to ensure minimal movement and sliding around.

Airlines will not load your dog in the cargo area if the temperature outside is lower than 45°F (7°C) or higher than 85°F (29°C) for safety reasons.

Make sure to go over this safety checklist, before checking your dog in with the cargo.

Get a health checkup from a certified veterinarian 1-2 days prior to your flight
Crate train your dog weeks prior; leading up to your flight
Trim your dog’s nails before flying
Ensure your dog has updated ID tags with your contact information
Feed your dog 3-4 hours before your departure time; continue to give your dog water up until it’s time to checkin
Try to book direct flights; avoid long layovers when possible

Getting a veterinarian to check your dogs health a couple days before travel is a good idea even if it not required by the airline. This way you can fly with a peace of mind, knowing your dog is in good health and has no pre existing medical conditions that may affect their flight experience.

While you are at the vet, make sure they trim your dog’s nails to help reduce the urge to scratch at their kennel during flight. Also, have your vet write up a proper feeding/water schedule for the day of the flight.

Moreover, it’s a good idea to crate train your dog, preferably in the same crate he will be flying in. This is especially true if your dog is not use to being locked up for longer periods of time in a kennel. I would start crate training at least 2 weeks prior to your flight date.

It’s important that your dog has proper identification with your current contact information attached to their collar, and even a tag on the crate isn’t a bad idea.

Although though your dog is required to be traveling on the same flight as you, this is good practice to ensure your dog reaches the destination safely and efficiently.

If at all possible, try to book your flight to Mexico direct from your original departure destination. If you can book your flight at a time of day where the temperature isn’t too hot 85°F (29°C) or too cold 45°F (7°C), this will ensure that your dog will be able to board the cargo area with no problems.

Generally, the longer your flight is and the more variances in climate change, the harder the flight will be for your dog.

Making sure to go over this pre flight checklist is very important to ensure your best friend is as comfortable and safe as can be on their flight to Mexico.

Flying To Mexico With A Service or Emotional Support Dog

When you are flying to Mexico with your service dog, airlines generally require the following:

Registration letter/certificate for your service dog
A medical health certificate from a certified physician; issued in letterhead stating you need to travel with your dog due to health issues (must have date issued, medical license number, and physician specialty license)
A certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian (5 days from date issued) written on your vet’s letterhead with their license number. Letterhead must also include name and address of the owner; breed, gender, age, and color of the animal.
Proof of rabies vaccination (no more than 3-years and no less than 30 days old) (dogs less than 3 months old are exempt)

If you are traveling to Mexico with your service dog, an advanced notice to your airline is encouraged but not required. However, if you are traveling with your emotional support dog, advanced notice and approval may be required before flights (provide notice at least 48 hours in advance).

Moreover, each airline will have different requirements when it comes to you and your service dog, so make sure to request everything that your airline will need well ahead of time.

If your service dog is too large to fit below you, or under the seat in front of you, most airlines will allow your service dog to be seated next to you on a separate seat as long as it is not assigned to someone else; generally at no additional cost.

If your dog is too large to fit on the seat next to you, or in the event that no extra seats are available for your dog, you may have to purchase a plane ticket for your dog, rebook on a flight with more available seats or, transport your dog as a checked pet.

All these options will most likely include an additional fee, so make sure to contact your airline as soon as possible when flying to Mexico with your service dog.

Feeding Your Dog Before Your Flight

It is important to feed your dog 3-4 hours before your departure time. Avoid feeding your dog right before your flight; as your dog may experience an upset stomach. Most airlines require you attach a small bag of dog food to the top of the crate with feeding instructions for the day of your flight.

I’d also recommend two travel bowls for your dog that are attached to the inside of the crate. This will allow the staff to properly provide food and water per your instruction’s. Most airline approved dog crates will come with travel bowls when purchased such as this one found on Amazon. (View airline approved dog crate)

Traveling To Mexico With Your Dog Often

If you travel regularly between the U.S. and Mexico with your dog, you can request to register in the “Pet Program – Frequent Traveler”. The purpose of this free program is to speed up the process for people who travel frequently to Mexico with their dogs.

Here are some advantages of joining the Pet Program – Frequent Traveler:

Reduce your waiting time
No need to submit another Health Certificate during 6 months
Data record will not be necessary (will already be in the database)
No need to wait for a hard copy of the Import Certificate (will be emailed to you directly)
“Entry Record” will be granted nationwide at the Office of Agriculture and Livestock Health Inspection (OISA) and at SENASICA’s headquarters

For further information please visit GOB.mx .

Coming Back From Mexico With Your Dog

When bringing your dog back from Mexico to the U.S, it must appear healthy, to enter. A rabies vaccination certificate is not required by the CDC when traveling back to the U.S. from Mexico ( source ).

There should be minimal fees when bringing your dog back to the U.S. from Mexico either by car or on a plane. However, the same requirements from your airline stay true, whether you are traveling to or from Mexico with your dog.

Driving To Mexico With Your Dog

As of December 16th, 2019 dogs no longer need a health certificate when traveling to Mexico. Upon arriving at the Mexican border, your dog may be physically inspected by SENASICA. Again, the inspector will verify the following:

If your pup looks healthy, then you will be allowed entry into Mexico. One of the great things about driving to Mexico with your dog, is the fact that you don’t have to pay for the airlines fees or deal with the hassle of required dog crate dimensions.

Although, even if you are driving across the boarder, your dog still needs to arrive in a clean cage.

Remember, only bring the amount of food your dog is going to eat on the day you are traveling into Mexico. Any excess food will be thrown away upon entry into Mexico. You can purchase more food when your are in Mexico.

If you are staying at one location for a few weeks and want to order your dog’s specific food , you can most likely have it shipped directly to you from Amazon.

The Cost To Drive Your Dog To Mexico

The only expenses when driving your dog to Mexico will be the gas to get there, and a pet carrier (if you don’t have one). There are no additional fees for bringing your dog into Mexico by land from the U.S.

Be aware though, there are other expenses and documents that are required when driving a vehicle into Mexico, whether you have your dog with you or not. If you want to know exactly what you will need when driving to Mexico, you should checkout this blog: Traveling To Mexico By Car: Your Complete Guide .

Is It Safe To Bring Your Dog To Mexico

Overall, bringing your dog to Mexico with you is considered safe and a lot of people are doing it. Here are a few tips for keeping your dog safe when traveling around Mexico:

Keep your dog hydrated
Take your dog for walks early in the morning, or later in the day after the sun has set
Avoid letting your dog eat trash and feces off the street
Ensure your dog has a proper collar and updated ID tag containing your current contact info attached
Try to feed your dog the same kind of food; don’t switch it up so often
Avoid letting your dog mingle with any strays

Besides stating the obvious, your dog will most likely enjoy Mexico, just as much as you do.

Ultimately, if you are considering bringing your dog to Mexico with you, it will require some planning. But in my opinion, it is well worth it. I’ve noticed that a majority of people bring their dog to Mexico when vacationing.

After all, who wants to leave their best friend back at home?

Alex Gomez, the founder of Mexico Travel Buddy, combines his firsthand, on-the-ground experiences in Mexico with a personal connection to the country, fostered through his Mexican wife and numerous explorations. As a professional writer and avid travel enthusiast, his favorite destination remains anywhere within Mexico's diverse landscapes. His extensive travels have equipped him with a treasure trove of tips, tricks, and insights, which he enthusiastically shares with his audience. Alex's stories and photos on the website not only showcase his love for Mexico but also offer readers a deeply authentic and engaging perspective.

Traveling To Mexico From The U.S. With A Dog

By Amy at GoPetFriendly.com
February 21, 2022

Brindle dog sitting in front of a sign that reads

The rules for traveling to Mexico from the U.S. with a dog changed in 2019. If you’re planning to head south of the border with your pup, these tips will help make your trip a success!

Brindle dog sitting on a stairway with colorful tiles and yellow walls in Naco, Senora, Mexico

Whether you’re walking across the border for the day or planning a longer trip to Mexico, there’s no reason to leave your pup behind! The rules for traveling to Mexico with a dog changed in 2019, and it’s now easier than ever to take your furry travel buddy along.

But remember, it’s just as important to get back into the United States as it is to get into Mexico! So be sure you’re prepared for crossing the border in both directions.

Brindle dog in a green harness sitting on the sidewalk in front of the Customs and Immigration building in Naco, AZ

Traveling To Mexico With A Dog

Your experience crossing the border will be very different depending on how and where you travel. More scrutiny and inspections are common at busy crossing like San Diego and El Paso. If you’re flying in, your documents will also be reviewed more thoroughly.

In contrast, if you’re walking across the border, the process could be very casual – especially if you’re visiting a small town. Driving across the border will likely be somewhere in between, with where you choose to cross having the biggest impact.

What People Need

Mexico requires all foreign citizens visiting the country to fill out an Official Entry Immigration Form , also called a tourist card, prior to their arrival. Tourist cards are free and you can fill out and print the form at home .

When you arrive at the border, present the immigration officer with your printed tourist card and your passport. Since your information will already be in their system, once your tourist card is stamped, you’ll be off to enjoy Mexico!

If you are walking across the border into Mexico, you might find the immigration officer doesn’t request your tourist card. Still, it’s better to have it prepared – just in case.

Auto Insurance

If you are driving in Mexico, you will also need to purchase Mexican car insurance . Even if your U.S. auto insurance policy covers you in Mexico, it cannot pay damages that you would legally owe to others if you were in an accident. Mexican law is very clear—in order to drive in Mexico, you must at least have Mexican liability coverage, underwritten by a Mexican carrier.

What Dogs Need

On December 16, 2019, the United States Department of Agriculture announced that cats and dogs traveling to Mexico from the U.S. no longer need a health certificate.

The rules now state that travelers with the pet dogs and/or cats must visit the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA), and see the person working with SENASICA upon arriving in Mexico.

If you travel regularly between the U.S. and Mexico with your dog, you can request to register in the “Pet Program – Frequent Traveler.” For further information, refer to the USDA website .

Brindle dog sitting in front of a sculpture spelling Naco in Naco, Senora, Mexico

Pet Inspections When Entering Mexico

SENASICA inspectors aren’t present at every crossing. When we walked into Mexico from Naco, Arizona near Bisbee , there was no pet inspection. Myles simply strolled across the border with us.

What If Your Pet Has Health Issues?

If your pet is being treated for lesions and/or infections due to a skin condition, present the SENASICA agent with the diagnosis and treatment instructions from your veterinarian. This information should be presented on letterhead, including the veterinarian’s professional registration number (or equivalent).

Can You Bring Pet Food Into Mexico?

When traveling to Mexico with a dog, the rules state you can only bring enough food to feed your pet that day. If you’re staying longer than a day, you could purchase pet food in Mexico. Or, consider shipping your dog’s food to your destination so it’s there when you arrive. Otherwise, you might be sharing your meals!

Something To Consider Before Traveling To Mexico With a Dog

In Mexico, we’ve found people to be very friendly toward Myles. Shopkeepers are generally less fussy about letting animals in stores, so traveling with a dog is pretty easy.

However, in Mexico and other Latin countries, you will often see dogs running loose in the streets. Generally, these dogs keep their distance. But if you have a reactive dog, this can be a stressful experience.

Returning To The United States

When you return to the United States from Mexico, U.S. citizens need to show a valid passport. If you are traveling by foot or car, you can provide a U.S. Passport card . This is a less expensive alternative to a full passport. But it only works for land and sea travel from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.

Your dog needs less documentation to return to the U.S. than you! The CDC does not include Mexico among the list of countries considered high-risk for rabies.

So proof of vaccination is not required for dogs coming to the U.S. from Mexico, as long as your dog has not traveled to a high-risk country in the past six months. You’ll just need to provide a written or verbal statement your dog has only been in a country NOT at high risk for rabies for at least 6 months or since birth for puppies less than 6 months of age. And there is no limit to the number of dogs you can bring, as long as they are your personal pets.

Traveling with Your Dog to Mexico | GoPetFriendly.com

Have you taken your dog to Mexico? How was your experience?

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We just returned from spending an afternoon in Agua Prieta, MX with our dog. We walked across from Douglas, AZ near Bisbee where the infamous Myles & Maynard of Go Pet Friendly fame live. Thought I would share our experience. Crossing in to MX and returning back to the US was a piece of cake! No one asked a single question about the dog. Surprising. The only thing they did was ask me to do was remove his pillow from the pillow case as we crossed in to MX. He’s almost 19 yrs old so we travel with a giant wagon/stroller and there is a human pillow in the bottom. We knew a health certificate was no longer needed due to law changes a few years ago. We had his vaccination records with us just in case, but no one asked. We carried in extra water for him as we didn’t want him (or us) drinking the local water of course. Since we were only there for a few hours we didn’t take any food. My research I believe indicated you are only allowed to bring 1 days worth of food with you even if crossing for a longer period of time? The only “issue” we had was finding a pet friendly location to eat other than the numerous food trucks found in the Central Plaza district. There are tables & chairs in the plaza if you want to eat at one of the food trucks, but we wanted a local restaurant with some personality. We ended up at Mia Burrito (corner of Av 11 & Calle 7). Local burrito stand with a few seats at the outside bar (with shade) & a bathroom in their back kitchen if you ask nicely. Human bathrooms were nearly impossible to come by….fyi. We each had a burrito & a soda. Total was $9. The dog enjoyed tortillas. We had wanted to eat at Bizio Cafe. However, they were closed due to construction. They too have outdoor seating with shade and are pet friendly. As we were walking back towards the border entry we stumbled upon what would have been exactly what we were looking for restaurant wise. La Rueda is the name and it’s on the same street before you get in line to re-enter. Outdoor shaded seating. Street dogs in A P were almost non existent. Different than other parts of MX we’d been to. We encountered 2 street dogs and both just ignored our dog. We walked the streets before & after lunch and then easily crossed back in to the US. Again, no questions asked. The hardest part of the return was getting his huge wagon thru the 2 turnstiles at customs. Where to park? You can park at the Douglas visitor center, but that’s a bit more of a walk. Put Douglas, AZ Walmart in your GPS. Park in that vicinity. There is a large parking lot across from Walmart with an abandon store front. That was were someone suggested we park. However, we ended up parking a few blocks closer to the port of entry near Dollar Tree. There was a strip mall where the store fronts were not yet finished. There were other cars parked here that appeared to have been from people walking across as well. A quick/short walk to border entry. Was there much to see/do? Nope. Exactly as we had expected. It was something we did more for the experience. Eat a good meal. Support the economy. Get our exercise walking for the day. Make some more memories with our Chuckie The Travelin’ Adventure Dog! Hope this helps anyone else considering crossing with their dog.

How wonderful! Thank you for sharing your experience, Cheri. I’m so glad to hear that crossing to AP is so easy. We’ve been across the border to Naco with Myles, but we haven’t gone to Agua Prieta yet. It sounds like we’ll have to give it a try!

I am planning a trip to Mexico next year. My dog is 60 pounds would I have to put her with luggage?? That’s scary if so. Advice anyone?

Hi Kimberly! Thanks for your note. As far as I know, there are no airlines that allow a 60-pound dog in the cabin. So your pup would have to travel in the cargo hold if you fly. I’m not sure how far you’re traveling, but driving is the only other alternative that I’m aware of. For your reference, the airline pet policies are all provided in this blog post >> https://www.gopetfriendly.com/blog/airline-pet-policies/ Good luck!

Try flying JSX. Will cost more and you may need to drive to a city with a non stop flight, but your dog can buy the seat next to you.

I’m flying with my dog as carry on. Taking two different airlines. Both airlines United and American require heath certificate and vaccination certificate to Mexico and returning to California. The carrier that goes under the seat for United is 17” long, 11” wide. 10.5”high for soft carrier. American Airlines lines is 18” long, 11”wide, 11”high. Different size requirements for hard carrier. Both airlines charge a Fee of $125.00. United allows the pet carrier and one personal carrier on bag. AA said the pet carrier is the only carry on allowed. I bought one of the cross bags that that I can keep my personal items in. My dog carrier converts to a backpack and standard carrier.

Hi Lori! Thanks so much for sharing your experience. I hope you have a fantastic trip – safe travels!

Hi thanks for sharing your experinec. Could you please share you carrier ? I have a medium size dog 22-25 lbs

Hi T! I don’t know if you’ll hear back from Lori, so I wanted to share this post we wrote recently about crash-tested dog carriers. Hopefully it helps and you have a great trip! >> https://www.gopetfriendly.com/blog/crash-tested-crates-and-carriers/

I need to state that my travel is exclusively at international airports, not border crossings. For the poster coming from Texas. Save yourself the anxiety…we have travelled internationally to Mexico, Nicaragua, Belize, Honduras. Get your vet to compose a letter stating your pet is in health and free from parasites. Then pack a dose of the meds you use, complete with packaging and keep it near your paperwork as proof. I have actually had the vets office compose a letter after they administered the meds, signed by vet…yes 3 originals The Mexican inspectors could ask you to dose your pet on inspection.I ALWAYS have a minimum of 3 originals, signed by vet, in BLUE ink, as they might want to retain 1-2 copies. Make sure your rabies vaccine is up to date…they now accept the three year vaccination. It must be administered at least 30 days PRIOR to your trip if you are nearing end of your rabies coverage. Once again 3 original copies signed by your vet. See where we are going. I keep a record of all my recent visits, just in case. Put paperwork in a designated folder. If you overdo it, you can’t go wrong, but never have a been questioned in all my trips. Sorry, don’t know about crates. Good luck, after this trip you will be a pro!

I’m driving from Texas into Mexico in October 2022 and will be staying 6 months. There is so much conflicting info out on the web.about what I have to have to cross the border. Can you confirm that I don’t need to pay for a vet’s health certificate. Do i need to bring their medical records with proof of vaccinations? Is rabies the only required vaccination? Do you have to show proof of deworming? Do they have to be in a pet carrier when they cross the border? Any information you could provide or confirm would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

You need a valid rabies certificate with your dogs microchip in order to return to the US . This is very strict and more research should have been done before writing this article.

Hi Cindy. Your statement would be true only if the dog had traveled to a “high-risk country for dog rabies” in the past 6 months. Mexico is NOT on the list of high-risk countries provided by the CDC.

Per the CDC website: “Dogs that have NOT been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months are NOT required by CDC to present a rabies vaccination certificate. However, when you enter the United States, you must provide a written or verbal statement your dogs have NOT been in a country that is high risk for rabies within the last 6 months or since birth if under 6 months of age. While CDC doesn’t require proof of rabies vaccination, CDC recommends that all dogs be vaccinated against rabies, and your US destination may have additional requirements.”

Here’s the link if you’d like to research it yourself >> https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/dogs.html

I hope that helps clarify things!

Cindy, your statement is incorrect. I have also researched this topic myself and found it to be accurate based on the USDA and CDC website. The requirement for proof of vaccinations and health certificates has been suspended since 2019.

Thanks, Jack! It’s always good to have someone double-check.

You do NOT need a microchip. I have had 3 trips with my service dog and I’m in Mexico at present. You DO need a valid rabies certification( 3 originals per visit…they retain one copy at inspection). I have my vet sign a letter stating dog is in good health without sign of flea or ticks( 3 original copies). My trips are less than 30 days. Perhaps pet travel is different than service dog travel. Never have I had to prove he has a chip.

When you return to US do you need letter from Mexican veterinarian stating dog is in good health without sign of flea or ticks plus has not travelled to high rabies country? What do you actually need to return back to US. Thank you.

Hi Maria! Thanks for your note. As long as your pet appears healthy, you don’t need any documentation to cross the border from Mexico to the U.S.:

“Proof of vaccination is not required for dogs coming to the U.S. from Mexico, as long as your dog has not traveled to a high-risk country in the past six months. You’ll just need to provide a written or verbal statement your dog has only been in a country NOT at high risk for rabies for at least 6 months or since birth for puppies less than 6 months of age.

I hope that helps and wish you safe travels!

That’s pretty informative, didn’t know that they carefully examine dogs when entering the border, there were probably a lot of precedents for that to be enacted. How does one just stroll/walk towards the border?

Hi Terrier Hub! I think the level of scrutiny depends on the location of the crossing. We’ve parked on the US side of the border and walked across a couple of times and no one examined our dog, Myles, at all.

I have 2 cats & 2 dogs- is that a problem to cross the border?

Hi Anabel! Thanks for your note. Unfortunately, the regulations for crossing into Mexico are a bit murky. There is one source that says only two pets can cross with you for free and there is a charge for additional pets. But in other places there is no mention of a limit on the number of pets allowed to cross with no fees. My feeling is that you’ll be fine crossing with your two dogs and two cats, and I’d love if you’d send a note and let us know how the crossing goes!

Help! I have a small (22 lb) dog who will not fit as carry on. None of the airlines seem to be transporting pets as cargo. I need to get from Baltimore-Washington area to Cancun with my dog. Anyone have any ideas?

Hi Scott! My suggestion is to reach out to the folks at PetRelocation.com. They help people move with their pets all over the world and should be able to help you find a solution. Wishing you the best of luck!

I love traveling with my dog to Mexico “Avi Kerendian” he enjoys it a lot!

That’s wonderful! Thanks for sharing, Avi. And waggin’ trails to you.

Hello. I’ll be flying JetBlue from New York to Cancun and then back from Cancun to Newark New Jersey. I know Mexico doesn’t require a health certificate but I am worried about coming back to US (New Jersey). I called the New Jersey department of health of agriculture and they said a health certificate and rabies certificate is required. My only question is, does the health certificate have to be endorsed by the USDA/APHIS (this process takes weeks and there’s extra work and fees involved). I know LEAVING the U.S, this is required to enter some countries. I don’t know how it works with coming back….

Hi Sunny! My guess is that a health certificate from a veterinarian is all that’s required. But that’s only a guess. To be absolutely sure it would be best to call the New Jersey Department of Health and Agriculture again and verify their requirements. Good luck and safe travels!

We will be going to Puerto Penasco with our 2 dogs for a long weekend. I am very concerned about not being able to bring enough dog food as the closest store to where we are staying is 30+ minutes and we have small children to trek there as well. Are they very strict about the food allotment?

Hi Stacy! From what I’ve been able to gather from people who have crossed the border with pets and reported back, the level of scrutiny really depends on the location that you cross the border. The big, popular crossing are more strict, and the smaller, quieter crossings generally garner less attention. I’m sorry I can’t give you a more definitive answer. I hope your trip goes well. And please come back and let me know so I can pass the information along to others!

I’m Mexican and use to travel with my dog. Mexico is the worst! Even if I’m enroll in the Pet Travel Mexican Program ( SENASICA ) is like Passport but the authorities are not familiar with their own program. Always carry Health Certificate even if is nor required. Food even if you are allow for the day if you get with a non informed authorities the take it away. You can not ship any kind of food if is not approve for the authorities. Better be inform what you can get in Mexico and try to feed your pet with the same in your place. Be very careful where you dog sniff. Dogs get poisson in parks often. Leash always and id. Have handy a list of veterinarians in the area.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Azul! You’re the first person I’ve heard report these types of challenges. I hope the authorities become more familiar with their program and that crossing the border is easier for you in the future. Safe travels!

Condo rented in Mexico and pre paid, would not give us our room key with the service dog. Terrible experience. They didn’t care about certificates, SD vest, etc.

I’m so sorry you had this experience, Toni! I do know that the Americans With Disabilities Act, which covers service dogs, only applies in the United States. Though other countries have similar laws, their requirements are different than here in the States. It poses an additional challenge when traveling abroad with a service animal, and I appreciate you for sharing your experience and highlighting the issue for others in the same position.

Hi! Do you know if there is a limit to how many dogs can travel with you in a car? Also, did you have to have a crate for your dog when traveling by car?

Hi J! We’ve seen conflicting information about the number of pets. Most of what we’ve seen says there are no limits, but one resource said two pets. Also, though they say crates are required, the people who’ve crossed the border and shared their experience have said crates weren’t required.

I’d like to be more definitive, but the information from the Mexican authorities is somewhat incomplete. I hope it’s helpful to you and that you have a safe and fun trip!

thank you, this was very helpful ! I’m wanting to fly with my small dog to los cobos, mexico. So I should just be prepared for them to do an inspection of her, close by the airport? I have all her records and shots.

Hi Dede! Thanks for your note. These guidelines are for people driving across the border to Mexico. Since you’ll be flying, I’d recommend checking with the airline to find out their requirements. They’ll likely request more documentation that if you were driving. Good luck, and safe travels!

How was the airport inspection? Have you gotten back yet? How was that process, if so?

How many dogs per person are you allowed to bring into Mexico? There will be two of us traveling with three small breed dogs

Hi Heriberto! In the most recent requirements provided by the Mexican government, there is no mention of a limit on the number of pets you can take across the border. You should be fine with your three dogs. Safe tavels!

We are in Mexico with our yorkies. We brought 2 bags of dehydrated raw. They seemed to care if it contained beef. The vet in Melaque sells dog food so you should be able to get yours in any bigger city.

Thanks so much for letting us know, Susanna! It’s good to hear from people who’ve been through the process. Safe travels to you!

I’m sorry, Grizz, but I don’t have the answer to your question. I suspect that the location of the OISA changes depending on where you cross the border. Safe travels to you!

I have flown into Mazatlan several times with my old puggle. The first two times a US Dept. of Agriculture certificate was required. I had to produce it in the luggage arrival area and was ushered over to a corner where the Mexican SENESECA or whatever they’re called inspector came around and physically inspected my poor dog. He really seemed to be looking for something wrong with my documentation. I flew in again about 5 months later with the same paperwork, but reissued and updated, and he found fault with exactly how my vet had entered the info about the parasite medications on the certificate. After a big deal about it, he said he would “let it go.” After inspection, they give you a two ply paper and collect the top half as you exit with your luggage and your dog. You keep the second half for when you depart, they ask for it at the airline check in. The third time, in February of 2020, I asked my vet for a USDA certificate again; I was told none was needed anymore but I asked for one anyway. All the websites and all the info I had said no certificate was required, but when I got to the inspection area, the inspector insisted on seeing a USDA certificate. I told him I thought I didn’t need one. He said no, I did. He seemed crestfallen when I produced one, then began to examine my dog. She is 13 and and has two grape-sized breast tumors on her belly. The vet said the only way to know if they are malignant is biopsy and surgery, but the dog is too old for that and surgical intervention is unlikely to help her at this time, so we are leaving them. Well, that inspector started squeezing and pulling at my poor dog’s tumors in a rather perverse way and I had to tell him to stop it. He issued his two ply certificate anyway and we proceeded without further perversion. We are planning on driving to Puerto Penasco with the dog soon, and I am going to travel with a USDA certificate, even though they are $65 at my vet’s. If my dog’s two tumors become an issue I am turning around and going back to the US.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Florence. I’m so sorry that your poor pup had to endure what sounds like an uncomfortable examination! If you would, please come back and let us know how things go when you drive across the border – hopefully everything is smooth and easy. Safe travels!

So here I am with an update–I drove into Puerto Penasco with my old puggle recently. I tried to get a USDA certificate from my vet but couldn’t get an appointment, ultimately I decided to just travel with the old certificate I had from 2020 and her vaccination records. We went in a pick up truck with a crew cab, and I bought a dog carrier sling that goes in the back and rests on the two jump seats. There was only one lane to go through in Sonoyta, and the Mexican official motioned us over for further inspection. My husband is Mexican, and was driving, and the official asked him what we had in the back of the truck (which was covered with a tonneau top). My husband said would you like me to open it up, and the official said yes. So my husband got out, opened up the back of the truck, the guy just took a quick look, and told us we could go. He never looked in the back of the cab and he never saw the dog, nor did he ask for my tourist card. So then we were on our way, and I didn’t even see the SENESICA office or any other place where I would check my dog in. My husband was very much, “let’s go, let’s not make any trouble for ourselves” so we just drove on and didn’t stop anywhere. Returning to the US, the Customs and Border patrol saw the dog in the back but didn’t ask for papers which was a good thing, because I seem to have lost the dog’s papers while at the Puerto Penasco rented beach house!

I really appreciate you for coming back to share your experience, Florence. Thank you! And I’m glad to hear your trip went smoothly. Waggin’ trails to you all!

I’m going to be traveling to Puerto Penasco in my truck with my two large doodles (1 is 65lbs and the other is 90lbs). I saw something on the USDA website about all animals needing to be in a crate when crossing the border. Is this the case? It would be very difficult to find one that will fit both dogs in the backseat of my Tacoma. Please let me know any info regarding this. Thanks!

Hi Matty! Yes, I’ve seen some indications of crates being required on the website. But I’m hearing from people who’ve crossed the border that they didn’t have a crate and all was fine. I can’t say for certain, because each agent could feel differently about following the “letter of the law,” but I think if your dogs are well-behaved you’ll be fine. It also wouldn’t hurt to have them buckled into seat belt harnesses!

Okay thank you Amy! The seatbelt harness is a great idea just in case!

Hi! I will be flying into Cabo San Lucas in October with my dog. Will she be screened medically at the airport or will I need to take her to a vet seperately? Also, does she need the ectoparasite treatment prior to flying or is that no longer a requirement?

Hi Phyllis! Thanks for your note. Since they’ve changed the rules and then the pandemic hit, we haven’t had any reports of people’s experiences flying with their pets to Mexico. My advice is to call the airline – they might be able to answer your questions. Or check with PetRelocation.com. They help pets move with their families all over the world and might have more experience in flying to Mexico. I hope that helps and that you have a wonderful trip!

When is the pet examine done, at the border or do we schedule it for after we’ve arrived at out destination?

Hi John! My understanding is that it happens at the border when you cross. Though, depending on where you cross there might not be an exam at all. I’ve been hearing reports from people crossing the border that no exam was done. Hope that helps and that you have a great trip!

I just came back from Mexico thru Nogales border. Going into Mexico back in early December, there was no problem whatsoever. They did not even ask a single question about my dog. I had spent over $200 on vet bills to get all the shots he needed & the accompanying letter of his good health. On our return to the US, it was the same. No questions asked nor documents required by the inspecting border agent.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Mahmood! The new rules haven’t been in place very long, so hearing from people who’ve been across the border really helps. Safe travels to you!

Do you know if we need crates or carriers for our two dogs?

And do they provide visas at the border like they do when you travel by air? Or do we have to print them out beforehand? This is mine and my husband’s first time traveling to Mexico by car (and with pets), so we have no idea what to really expect.

Hi Kimiko! The rules say that pets must be in crates or carriers. However, I’ve been hearing from people who have crossed the border that they did not have them, and there was no problem. It may depend on where you’re driving across. Unfortunately, that’s the best information I have.

As for visas, my understanding is that you’re meant to complete the paperwork online and print it to take with you. Again, whether it is checked or not could depend on where you cross. I hope that’s helpful and that you have a great trip!

Hi KamikoK, I am going to be headed to Mexico from the US with my two pups in December. Did you find out about the crates? we dont have them and I would hate to buy them. But I am also terrified of not getting through. How was your experience? and where did you cross? we will be crossing from Laredo.

We crossed through Laredo also, and we did not have our dogs in crates. They didn’t even ask for any paperwork for our dogs. Very easy!

That’s great! Thanks so much for sharing your experience.

This makes me feel SO much better. Thank you!

We fly to Mexico frequently from California with our small ESA dog. All Mexican airlines have asked us for health certificates and we have always been stopped at customs in Mexico. 99% of the time we are delayed by either Mexican airline employees or Mexican custom officers. They check and re check and check again all of our paperwork. In fact on our most recent trip 11/2019 they asked for our paperwork six different times. I haven’t flown since the new law and am curious to see if the Mexican airline have updated their policies. I checked online and see that they still require health certificates.

Hi Adam! Thanks for sharing your experience. And yes, in almost all cases airlines require health certificates for pets that will be flying – even if they’re not leaving the United States. I don’t expect the airlines to relax their rules, but the documents required to drive or walk across the border are less. Safe travels to you!

I’d like to know more about the kennel/cage rule as well if anyone crosses in the next couple of days. We will be crossing in about a week and I would rather not buy a crate if it’s not necessary or enforced.

Unfortunately, the rules are so new (and not clearly written), so we’re still figuring things out too, Mikey. I wish I could be more helpful. Please let us know what you learn when you make the crossing!

I am in Mexico cureently, we crossed the border on Jan 7, which is after the rule change. we crossed at bridge #1? (the commerical bridge) in Eagle Pass TX/Piedras Negras. I crossed on foot with a bicycle and my dog. we did not have or need a carrier/crate. They also never had us do the inspection. I had his vac, de-worming, and flea and tick records. nothing was asked for. I asked the inspectors if they needed anything else for the dog and they said “no” and told the guy at the imss office I had a dog with me and he didn’t care. we have been in Mexico for a month and past through 4-5 police and army checkpoints and noone has cared about the dog or asked for any paperwork. this is just our experience and other crossings may be different but they didn’t care where we crossed.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience, Mikey! I hope you’re having a wonderful time on your trip. Waggin’ trails!

How many dogs can you bring to Mexico from USA. I’m asking because we have 5 healthy dogs and my husband and I plan to drive to Mexico City this year.

Hi Tanya! I can’t find any limit on the number of dogs that you can take across the border, as long as they are your personal pets. I know that when crossing between the US and Canada there is no limit. I hope that helps!

This is great, the changes — thank you so much for posting. I wonder if Canada will be next in relaxing the pet entry rules. Hope so anyway.

Agreed, AH – that would be fantastic!

We are Canadians who also have a condo in the northern Baja where we have spent our last 12 winters. We cross the border (Mex/US) at least twice a month by car going into San Diego and always take our dog. I do carry her rabies and vacines certificate with us when we cross, but have never been asked for any documentation whatsoever when traveling by car in either direction. I am asked for the rabies certificate when entering the states BY AIR with her, (not by car) and also when returning to Canada by the Canadian officials when FLYING home.

Thanks so much for your note, Judy! We’ve found much the same when traveling with our dogs between the US and Canada – our paperwork is rarely checked. It is interesting to note that this new rule makes it clear that it’s the responsibility of the person crossing into Mexico with a dog or cat to visit the OISA office for an inspection of their pet. And there is no word on what the penalty for not doing the inspection will be.

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Travel to Mexico With Your Pet

Rules for Entering Mexico With Pets

Many people travel with their pets to Mexico. If you would like to take your dog or cat with you on your Mexican vacation, there are a few steps you should take in advance. Note that for Mexican regulations only dogs and cats are classified as pets: other animals may be imported but the regulations are different. Mexican regulations allow travelers to enter the country with up to two dogs or cats, but if traveling by air, airlines will only allow one pet per person. If you will be traveling to Mexico with more animals, you should contact the Mexican consulate or embassy nearest you for more information.

You should have your pet examined by a veterinarian and your pet's immunizations must be up to date. Carry the following documents when entering Mexico with your pet:

Either APHIS Form 7001 (pdf) Vet Health Certificate OR a certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian and printed on letterhead (handwritten documents are not accepted) in English and Spanish with the vet's professional license number or a photocopy of the license, and the vet's signature. Take the original and a simple copy.
Proof of rabies vaccine administered at least 15 days before the pet's arrival in Mexico. The vaccination certificate should state when the vaccine was administered and how long it is valid, as well as the product name and lot number.

When you arrive in Mexico with your pet, SAGARPA-SENASICA (Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries, and Food) personnel will conduct a brief physical inspection and verify that your pet is in compliance with the above requirements.

Travel by Air

If you are traveling by air you will need to check with your airline well in advance about their rules and extra charges for transporting pets. The airline has the final say on whether or not they will carry your pet (and each airline may have different rules), so be sure to check all the requirements with them prior to purchasing your ticket. Some airlines do not transport animals at all. Most airlines will allow small pets to travel in the cabin with you, but the pet will need to be in an airline-certified travel crate that fits beneath the airplane seat. Check with the airline for acceptable dimensions.

AeroMexico's regulations for transporting a pet in the cabin are as follows: Pets are allowed in the cabin only for flights of less than six hours. The carrier must be secure and well-ventilated. The interior base of the carrier should be of an absorbent material, and it must fit under the seat in front of the passenger. The carrier must be large enough to allow the pet to stand, turn, and lie down. The pet must remain inside the carrier for the entirety of the flight and it is prohibited to provide food or drink to the pet during the flight.

Travel Over Land

Traveling by car is the most convenient way to travel with your pet. Traveling by bus and taxi can be difficult unless your pet is very small and travels well in a carrier. Read about how to travel with your dog.

Where to Stay

In the past, finding hotels and resorts that would accept pets was a really big challenge. Nowadays, more hotels, Airbnbs and other accommodations are realizing that it makes sense to allow their guests to have their pet along. You should inquire beforehand to make sure your furry friend will be welcome where you'll be staying. Check Pet Friendly Accommodations for information about hotels in Mexico that accept pets.

Returning From Mexico

Bringing your pet back with you to the United States? Depending on how long you have been in Mexico, you may want to get a health certificate ( Certificado Zoosanitario ) from a licensed Mexican veterinarian, to present when you enter your home country. Make sure your dog's rabies vaccination is still up to date. Check the Center for Disease Control website for the most updated information.

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Traveling to Mexico with a Dog: A Step by Step Guide (Updated 2023)

Mexico is one of my favorite countries to visit! It’s incredibly colorful, the people are warm, and the food is insanely delicious. Plus, our neighbor to the south is only a short plane ride, and sometimes even a car ride, away.

I used to go to Mexico every year for work, so I began having Boogie and Marcelo come along with me. Since those days, they’ve traveled to Mexico City and Sayulita for fun and exploration, and lucky for us, it’s only gotten easier! Mexico no longer requires an international health certificate if you’re coming from the USA. Yay!

If you’re thinking of bringing your dog to Mexico, it’ll be no sweat. Here’s how we brought our dogs with us.

Traveling to Mexico with a dog

Article Contents

Step 1: Country requirements

In 2019, Mexico changed their policy for dogs and cats entering the country from the USA:

Update effective 12/16/2019: A health certificate for dogs and cats is no longer needed to enter Mexico. Dogs and cats may be taken to the border without health certificate documentation, they will be inspected by SENASICA upon arrival.

That’s right, you can skip the vet visit (as long as your pet is up to date on their vaccines), and skip the forms and APHIS stamp! All you’ll need to bring your pet to Mexico is a valid rabies certificate and a healthy pet!

A little reminder: The internet is a great source of information, but websites aren’t always up to date, and policies can change at any time. We like to double (and sometimes triple!) check a country’s policy before we start the process so we’re 100% sure of things and don’t waste time. Better safe than sorry!

Step 2: Make travel arrangements

Many airlines make the trip down to Mexico City, but it’s important to check their rules before booking a flight. Airlines have different regulations, no matter the route.

For example, Volaris, a budget airline with flights to/from Mexico City, does not allow brachiocephalic breeds (flat nosed dogs) to fly in cabin. They are automatically off the table for us when we’re flying with Boogie, our pug.

We’ve flown on American Airlines, AeroMexico, and JetBlue when flying to Mexico with our dogs.

If you find an airline you like, stick with them! It helps to have a track record of successful flights with a company under your belt, to pull up in case you get an unfriendly gate agent or have any other issues.

Choose your flight (fly direct if possible to make things easier), purchase your tickets, and then contact the airline to let them know you’ll be flying with dogs and pay the fee.

This last step is important, since many companies limit the number of pets allowed on board. You want to make sure there is space for your dog!

Next, check the carrier requirements for flying in cabin . Be sure your pet’s bag fits requirements and will be accepted on the air craft.

Step 3: Dust off your pets rabies certificate

Once your date is confirmed, you’ll need to make sure your pet has a valid rabies certificate.

If your pet isn’t up to date on their rabies vaccine, you’ll need to get one at least 21 days before departure. Ensure their vaccine is valid and that it doesn’t expire before or during your trip.

Once you’ve procured a copy, print it out and put it somewhere safe.

Remember: It’s important to stay organized so you’re not scrambling on flight day! Make additional hard copies of all of your documents, and keep digital copies on your phone. These simple moves will save you time and energy when traveling.

Step 4: Flight Day

On flight day, be sure your pet gets a light meal and a good walk before heading to the airport early.

Give yourself plenty of time at the airport to check in and go through security.

Once the gate agent reviews your documents and carrier, you are good to go.

Check the pet service areas at your airport before going so you’ll know if you have to get in an extra walk before going through security or not.

Check out our flight day tips so you’re fully prepared.

Step 5: Arrival Check

When you land, you’ll go through immigration, grab your bags, and then head to the inspection area to get checked by a health inspector. There will be a sign that reads “Oficina de Inspeccion”.

A Mexican officer will look over your dog, check your documents and make copies of them. We were also asked the following questions:

Our dogs age.
To see his rabies certificate.
If my dog had traveled/flown before.
Our flight number.
The address for where we were staying.
If we had packed any dog food*.

The inspector will make copies of your passport and your dogs rabies certificate, and give you a form to hand to officials before exiting the airport.

The entire process should take no more than 10 to 15 minutes.

* A note on dog food : For those planning to travel with commercial dog food, the rule is you can bring a day´s ration of dried food and/or an unopened bag which must be properly labeled in English or Spanish and stamped by the food inspection authority; or the product must comply with the combined MCRZI requirements originating from authorized countries, packaged, tagged and without content of ruminant origin. A total of 20 kg per family is allowed, in up to two packages equaling that amount.

However, when the inspector asked us about dog food, we simply said we didn’t have much and we were waved through. None of the food we carried, either in our carry on or luggage, was inspected or stamped.

Welcome to Mexico!

What was your experience like going to Mexico? We’d love to hear.

Here’s more information on flying with your pet , including a travel checklist and the best pet carriers for every budget ..

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If you’re traveling to Mexico with a dog, here’s a step by step guide of what you’ll need to enter the country. Viva Mexico!

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People often ask us about traveling with pets, but we precisely are postponing having a dog because we travel so much. We might have to rethink that because clearly it’s very doable, you just need to do a bit of research. Thank you for this thorough article!

I’ve always been interested on how people get to travel with their dogs. Based on what I’ve randomly seen on Facebook, I think it’s pretty risky and tedious. But it’s harder to leave them alone at home, right? Thanks for this post! At least now I’m knowledgeable if even I want to get to Mexico with our pets!

Do your pets travel in the cabin with you? We have a full grown GSD and we’re looking at our first long term stay next winter in Mexico. She’s a big baby and I have heard that the travel in the belly of the plane is pretty brutal for them. She does have separation anxiety and I think the engine noise would totally freak her out!!! Can we buy a seat for her?

Airlines typically only allow dogs in cabin who either A. are small (usually 20lbs or less), B. are emotional support animals, or C. are service animals. Another option is to hire a pet service like Pet Jet, that will transport your dog for you (with a human, in a small plane), but they tend to be quite pricey.

Hi, I read on some website that we will need an exit permit to exit Mexico as well. Do we get this permit on the day we leave from the authority at the airport? Should I arrive at the airport early to get this permit?

I used the same paperwork I entered with when I left Mexico, but my dogs stay was very short (2 weeks). If your stay falls within their timeline, you can exit with the same paperwork. If it’s a longer stay, you will have to get new documents (from the vet, etc).

Hope this helps!

Did your pets ever get sick? Im planning on traveling with two Boston terriers, and I’m going into a ranch type of town. With the different food and environment, did they adapt well?

Hi! We feed our pups homemade food , which is easy to make wherever we go (just veggies and chicken mostly, with some supplements added). The food is the same, so they don’t get sick. They always adapt super well to the new environment, and love the new smells!

Lovely blog and ADORABLE pets. I would like to add though that these requirements are true from traveling from the USA, Traveling from some European countries will require a pet health certificate. Mainly if you are traveling through other countries and or have layovers. I found this out when flying from the UK. It’s annoying but necessary I suppose.

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You can take your pets to Mexico: Mexican customs will allow you to introduce domestic pets (cats or dogs) to Mexico, provided that you have the correct zoo-sanitary paperwork in order and the animal(s) appear in good health on arrival.

This guide gives you the details about how to prepare for the transport and importation of your pet(s) to Mexico and taking your pet(s) back to your home country, as well as sharing practical information about keeping your pets in Mexico.

See Also: On Importing Pets and Animals to Mexico

How to bring your pets to Mexico

If you plan to take your cat(s) and/or dog(s) to Mexico, here are the guidelines you’ll need to follow so that you can get your pets transported on the airline (if you are flying) and gain entry to Mexico with your pets at the border.

If you plan to bring other animals to Mexico, e.g. birds, then you will need undertake further procedures to acquire additional permits for export (from your country) and import (to Mexico) of the animals, e.g. birds, reptiles.

Taking pets to Mexico on airlines

Each airline has its own rules about taking pets when you travel (and how many pets they will transport per passenger or family group). Following are universal guidelines that will apply to most airlines. You should, however, check your airline’s web site for latest details and policies and call them for clarification if necessary.

Crates and Kennels: The airline will require you to use a purpose-built crate (for cats) or kennel (for dogs) if you want to transport them on the airline. Cardboard or plastic boxes and other make-shift containers will not be accepted.

Health Certificates: According to SENASICA , If you are not traveling from the USA or Canada, you will need to show a health certificate from a veterinary surgeon.

Excess Baggage Fees: Fees vary by airline — check with them for details. If you have a big dog (combined weight of kennel and animal greater than 100lbs) then the dog may have to be transported separately (as cargo). Airlines have been restricting baggage allowances and increasing fees for excess baggage of late, so be sure to check this detail with your airline so that you understand the additional costs involved.

Proper Labeling on Crates and Kennels: Your full name, address and telephone contact numbers (at destination) need to be clearly displayed. The crate should indicate which way is up, and the words “LIVE ANIMALS” (in capital letters) should be prominently displayed. Your pet(s) should also be properly tagged.

Interior of Crates and Kennels: The interior should have some sort of absorbent lining to absorb any urine or feces. Shredded newspaper will work if you don’t have a purpose made material from a pet store. Do not place food or water inside the crate or kennel but instead place two dishes inside which airline staff may make use of. Some people freeze water in a dish, which melts during the flight providing your pet with water if it gets thirsty.

Upon Arrival: Have food and water ready for your pet. Mexican authorities will allow you to import a reasonable ration of dry food for your pet to eat whilst in-transit. You may place these items inside the crate or kennel; keep water containers and food packets sealed. You will need to present your health certificates to the zoo sanitary kiosk at the port of entry in Mexico for your pet to be allowed into the country. See detailed arrival information, below.

See Blog: A Park Full Of Schnauzers

Arriving with your pet in Mexico

You are permitted to import two pets (cats, dogs, or a cat and dog) into Mexico. This limit is per person , so if you are a couple, you can import up to 4 pets. Note that if you import more than 3 pets, you will need to pay additional fees. See the website links below for details and procedures.

If you are NOT traveling from the USA or Canada , before you travel, your veterinary surgeon needs to provide you with a health certificate for each pet, issued by an official authority or by a licensed veterinarian in your home country, that should include proof of vaccines against rabies and distemper, administered at least 15 days before the arrival of your pet in Mexico. If you live in the US or Canada you do not need to present this certificate.

The documents (an original and one photo copy) must be presented on official documentation (i.e. headed and/or sealed paper) provided by a competent authority or veterinarian and include:

Your name and address in your country of residence, and the address of where you will be staying with your pet in Mexico
A description of the animal(s)
The date the animal(s) were vaccinated against rabies and distemper and the vaccination’s expiry date. (Animals less than three months old are exempt from this requirement.)
A declaration from the veterinarian to state that, prior to your journey, the animal(s) appeared clinically healthy; and that the animals have been de-wormed internally and externally within six months prior to arrival in Mexico
If you fail to comply with these requirements, you will be offered an opportunity to contact a vet in Mexico (at your expense) to attend the port of entry and issue the required documents.

On Arrival – Note

Your pet(s) need to be brought to Mexico in a pet transporter which is generally clean and hygienic, without a bed, and without any toys or ‘snacks’ . Dry pet meal and water is allowed (see tips, above) but any accessories (e.g. beds, toys, snacks, chew-bones, etc.) will be confiscated for secure disposal.

Source: SENSAICA , Translated from the Spanish in good faith

On arrival at the port of entry (land, sea or air), take your pet(s) to the zoo sanitary kiosk (look for the acronym SAGARPA/SENSAICA which the Ministry responsible for this process) at the port of entry and present the documentation to facilitate your pet’s entry into Mexico.

Importing other pets to Mexico

According to the Mexican Customs website , other common pets including: canaries, hamsters, guinea pigs, Australian parrakeets, cockatiels, ferrets, parrots, tortoises, and small wild birds (but not predatory birds) can be brought to Mexico as part of the duty-free 3-pet allowance—if you have 4 or more pets, you need to pay import duties. All pets must pass zoosanitary inspection at the port of entry.

Airline restrictions: If you are flying to Mexico, check with the airline about restrictions they may have in place regarding the transportation of pets other than cats and dogs.

Importing any animal other than common pets defined in the Customs list requires more effort. You’ll might need export permits from your home country, and an import permit from Mexico.

Some animals (or species), even those listed on the common pet allowances may be banned from either export from your country of departure and/or import to Mexico.

See this page for more details , or contact your nearest Mexican Consulate for details if you want to import any animals or pets to Mexico that are not considered common pets.

See also: On Importing Pets and Animals to Mexico

Practical information about keeping pets in Mexico

If you plan to bring your pet to Mexico as part of a lifestyle change, for example, if you plan to retire here or live here part-time, or if you plan to visit Mexico with your pet, here are some practical tips:

Traveling with pets in Mexico: If you have your own car and transport your pets, be sure to take sufficient supplies with you on longer road trips; especially water. Don’t leave your pets locked-up alone in the car when it’s parked on a hot day as doing so may be fatal to them, especially if you leave the car exposed to the sun.

Taking pets on Mexico’s buses: Bus companies will transport cats and dogs in the hold, provided that they are traveling in a pet crate. Be sure to provide your pet with plenty of water and some food for longer journeys. Service pets are allowed to travel on-board; check with the bus company for detailed policies. See also: Traveling by bus in Mexico .

Pet supplies: You can buy pet food and other supplies from all major supermarkets, and there are also a number of chain stores that cater specifically to pets in Mexico; the main ones are Petco , Petsy , +Kota , and Petland .

Vets and medical supplies: Vet surgeries are plentiful across Mexico and there is at least one vet even in smaller rural towns. Vet fees in Mexico are a small fraction of those charged in the US and Europe and pet medications are less expensive here, too. Look online for vets in your locale, or ask locally for a recommendation.

Taking dogs for walks: Parks in larger towns and cities are where most urban pet owners take their dogs for a daily walk . Larger towns and cities also have a cottage industry of dog walkers available. In rural areas, owners may take their dogs for walks in the countryside. It’s considerate to pick-up any dog mess and some towns and cities provide bins for disposal of dog waste at parks.

Dog walks on the beach: You can take dogs for walks on most beaches in Mexico; however some beaches in the most popular tourist areas (particularly those in Cancún and Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos) now have signs up prohibiting dog-owners from taking their dogs on certain stretches of the beach. Check locally for details.

Pet-friendly restaurants: Some local restaurants, especially in rural towns and villages, will be amenable to well-behaved dogs. Most restaurants in larger cities and tourist areas will not accept pets indoors, except service dogs. Some restaurants may have an outdoor seating area where pets are welcome; check locally.

Pet-friendly accommodations: Most hotels and BnBs in Mexico do not allow pets to stay, with the exception of service pets who cannot be denied by law. When you search for a hotel or BnB online, check the option on the booking portal for pet-friendly hotels and this will filter out those that do accept pets.

Pet sitting and kennels: If you plan to go on a trip and don’t take your pets, you might ask a good neighbor or a friend to look after them in your absence. For longer trips, you might ask someone to house-sit for you (and look after your pets while you’re away) or you can take your pets to a local kennel. See the useful sites links at the end of this guide for links to kennels and catteries.

Leaving Mexico with your pets

When you leave Mexico with your pets, you will need to go online and search to find out what paperwork and procedures are required to re-import your pet back to your home country (or the country you plan to visit). Some countries have quarantine regulations in place which means that your pet will need to be quarantined (at your expense) for a determined period upon arrival before you can take it home with you.

Usually, the paperwork required to re-import your pet to your home country is similar to that Mexico requires to bring your pet to Mexico. Check with your country’s customs regulations for details.

You will also need an exit permit for your pet when you leave Mexico. This is issued by SAGARPA , the Mexican agricultural ministry who will also undertake visual inspection of your pet(s) to asses its state of health. This is only valid for six months. If you plan to be outside of Mexico for more than six months, before you return with your pet(s), you’ll need to get health certificates and vaccinations from a veterinary abroad before you can re-import the pet(s) to Mexico.

Useful web sites for pet owners in Mexico

Here is a list of useful contacts in relation to bringing your pets to Mexico as well as keeping pets in Mexico:

List of Requirements (Spanish) – The official government page that sets out the requirements for the import or cats and dogs to Mexico.

SAGARPA – The Mexican Agricultural Ministry, which is also responsible for zoo sanitary matters

SENASICA – Is related to SAGARPA and deals with the import/export of pets, animals and agricultural products. This page on their website contains information about importing pets to Mexico

SEMARNAT – Also related to SAGARPA, this ministry is responsible for environmental matters and you may need to refer to them if you plan to import pets other than cats or dogs

Mexican Kennel Association – Part of the International Kennel Association; this web site also has a link to the Mexican Cattery Association

Canine Carriers – If you want someone else to take care of your pet’s entry and exit from Mexico, you may hire a private firm like this one

Mexican Vets – Click the link to open Mexico’s online yellow pages. Search for the word veterinarios in your local area.

Mexican Consulates Abroad – Find your nearest Mexican Consulate in your home country

Foreign Consulates in Mexico – Find your country’s consulate in Mexico

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Dog-Friendly Mexico: Travelling in Mexico with a Dog

Mexico is both an easy and difficult country to travel to with a dog. While the regulations to take a dog into Mexico are simple and straightforward, plus there’s plenty of pet shops and veterinarians in the country, in other ways the country isn’t so dog-friendly.

We were meant to visit Mexico with our dog back in 2020, but as happened to so many travel plans in 2020, they were cancelled. We haven’t yet had a chance since to visit Mexico with our dog, but after spending a couple of months in the country in early 2022 and meeting multiple dogs along the way, I’ve put together these notes.

Covering everything from how to travel around Mexico with a dog, to finding pet-friendly accommodation and where to dine with your dog, find out more about what it’s like to travel in Mexico with a dog.

Requirements to Take a Dog to Mexico

The requirements to take your dog to Mexico are quite simple. The three main requirements are proof of rabies vaccine, a health certificate (except for pets travelling from the USA and Canada) and an inspection on arrival.

Rabies Vaccination

Dogs entering Mexico need to be vaccinated against rabies, except for puppies under the age of three months, who are exempt. The rabies vaccine needs to still be valid.

If your dog was originally vaccinated against rabies in Mexico , you are required to show the Mexican booklet you received from the vet in Mexico. In Mexico, the standard rabies vaccine is a one-year vaccine.

I’ve heard conflicting information about whether three-year vaccines from overseas are recognised, but there is nothing stating that they aren’t recognised on government websites – just that the rabies vaccine needs to not have expired.

It is also recommended that dogs are vaccinated for distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus and parainfluenza, to keep them healthy, but this is not a requirement.

Health Certificate

Unless you are travelling from the USA or Canada, you will need to visit your vet and have them issue a typed health certificate (plus a copy) within 15 days of their date of export. This requirement has not applied for dogs from the USA since December 2019.

On the health certificate , the following needs to be included:

The veterinary clinic’s letterhead and the license number of the certifying veterinarian
Name and address of exporter and destination address in Mexico
Details of rabies vaccination (date and validity)
Certification that the dog is clinically healthy
Certification the dog has been internally and externally dewormed within the last six months, and are currently free of ectoparasites

No official endorsement of the certificate is required.

Inspection on Arrival

On arrival in Mexico, your dog will need to visit the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA) and be inspected by an official personnel from SENASICA.

This inspector will verify that your pet is healthy, including that they don’t exhibit signs of an infectious and contagious disease, have no fresh or healing wounds and are free of ectoparasites.

Your dog should enter Mexico in a container that is clean and free from bedding and other accessories, otherwise they may be destroyed. The container may be sprayed with disinfection.

For further information, send an email to [email protected] .

Bringing Dog Food to Mexico

When bringing your dog to Mexico, you are only permitted to bring enough food for one day. I’m not sure how strictly this is enforced.

To be on the safe side, it’s best to investigate local pet stores in advance, and find somewhere that stocks your pet’s regular food or an alternative food.

Dog Accessories at San Miguel de Allende Market

Departing Mexico with a Dog

To depart Mexico again with your dog , unless you are travelling to the USA or Canada, you will also need to apply for an Animal Health Export Certificate . This includes if you are travelling with your dog to the EU, and is in addition to your EU Pet Passport or the EU Pet Health Certificate .

Make sure you allow plenty of time to complete the paperwork to depart Mexico. In particular, I have heard recent reports from people who have travelled to and from Mexico multiple times with their dog, that it is now advisable to go to the airport one or more days before your actual flight, allowing up to four hours, plus again arrive early at the airport before your flight.

Travelling to Mexico with a Dog

There are two main ways to travel to Mexico with a dog, either by road or by air.

Entering Mexico by Road

The easiest way to travel from the USA to Mexico with a dog is by road. There are no restrictions on what land border crossings you can use. Just be aware of the usual requirements for a temporary vehicle importation permit and Mexican vehicle insurance.

Dogs entering Mexico from the USA don’t require a health certificate, but need to be vaccinated against rabies and be inspected on arrival in Mexico. I’ve heard reports that this inspection is often quite cursory at land border crossings.

Entering Mexico by Air

Alternatively, fly into Mexico with your dog, whether from elsewhere in the USA, or from Canada, Europe or elsewhere in the world.

There are no restrictions on dogs flying in the cabin or in the hold on planes to Mexico. There are a range of airlines that fly to Mexico that accept pets for carriage, both in the cabin and in the hold, including American, Canadian, European and Mexican airlines. For the pet policies of major Mexican airlines, see below.

When flying out of Mexico to destinations other than the USA and Canada, allow plenty of time for the paperwork to be completed, potentially visiting the airport before the day of your departure. See above for more details.

Travelling Around Mexico with a Dog

Mexico is a large country and you’ll undoubtedly need to travel around with your dog, whether just to and from the airport or across the country. There are a number of options if you are travelling with a pet.

Travelling by Car

The easiest way to travel around Mexico with your dog is in your own car, whether you’ve driven your own car across the border or if you’re staying for a longer period and purchase a car in Mexico.

If you are staying for a shorter period and want to hire a car, enquire directly with the car rental company whether pets are allowed inside their vehicles. I looked at the websites of multiple car hire companies, but they didn’t detail their pet regulations online.

At a minimum, you will need to return the hire car clean and free of dog hair. Consider carrying your pet in a carrier inside the car. Many airline pet carriers are also suitable for restraining pets in cars.

Travelling by Intercity Bus

Mexico has an excellent system of intercity buses, with both first class and economy buses regularly driving between major cities, as well as smaller destinations (at least the economy buses).

While pet dogs are allowed to be transported on first class buses, they are usually only allowed in the hold of the bus, in a rigid kennel alongside the suitcases and other large luggage items. This space is not air-conditioned and is quite dangerous for animals.

Unfortunately, they are not allowed to travel alongside you in the cabin of the bus, no matter how small they are. Check directly with the bus company for their complete policy. See below for a sign about the Estrella de Oro bus company.

The popular ADO buses have a similar pet policy (Spanish only). Only service animals are allowed inside the cabin. All pets need to travel in the luggage compartment in a rigid container, while sedated! Pets will only be transported when the temperature is under 26C, for a maximum of 8 hours, with no brachiocephalic dogs or cats permitted.

With smaller bus companies, there may be some discretion, but this is likely to depend on the driver (and your ability to speak Spanish!)

Flying in Mexico with a Dog

Domestic flights are frequent and cheap in Mexico. For longer distances, flying is definitely quicker and often cheaper than taking a bus, although additional fees for luggage can add up. Additionally, small dogs are generally permitted to travel in the cabin on planes, unlike on buses.

These are the pet policies of the major Mexican airlines:

Aeromexico Pet Policy : Pet dogs are permitted both in the cabin (on flights up to 6 hours duration) and as checked baggage on Aeromexico flights.

In the cabin, dogs up to 9kg (20 lbs) including the carrier are permitted, which should have maximum dimensions of 40 x 30 x 20cm (16 x 12 x 8 inches). Usually carriers need to be zip-tied. Fees range between 1350 and 1700 MXN for domestic flights, or $162 to $168 USD/EUR/GBP for international flights.

For pets travelled in the hold, there is a weight limit of 45kg (99 lbs), including their crate. Fees range between 1600 and 1950 MXN for domestic flights, or $252 to $258 USD/EUR/GBP for international flights.

In both cases, vaccination records and a Certificate of Good Health is required, plus any documents required by the destination. View the full pet policy .

VivaAerobus Pet Policy : VivaAerobus claims that they are the airline with the most space to transport pets within Mexico, permitting pets both in the cabin and as checked baggage to any destination.

For pets travelling in the cabin, there is a maximum weight of 27 lbs (12.25kg) for the dog or cat and their carrier, which can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches (46 x 35.5 x 20cm). The carrier can be rigid of semi-rigid.

For pets in the hold, there is a maximum weight of 99 lbs (45kg), including their carrier, which must have maximum dimensions of 126 inches (320cm) and be rigid. Fees for pets vary depending on destination and whet it is paid online or at the airport.

Pets need to fly with their full vaccination card, plus have received an anti-parasitic treatment to travel within Mexico and have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian to fly internationally. View the full VivaAerobus pet policy .

Volaris Pet Policy : Volaris also permits pets to travel on its flights, both in the cabin and as checked baggage, although the rules slightly differ. Pets can be added during the online booking process, when selecting your seat.

Pets can travel in the cabin if they weight no more than 10kg (22 lbs), including their carrier, which can be up to 44 x 30 x 19 cm (17.5 x 12 x 7.5 inches). It must be closed with a plastic clamp provided at the airport. Up to 1500 MXN is charged during the low season or 1900 MXN in the high season.

In the hold, the maximum weight for pets is 45kg (99 lbs), including their crate, which needs to follow the standard crate requirements. The fee is up to 1400 MXN during the low season or up to 1500 MXN during the high season.

View the complete Volaris pet regulations , including requirements for rabies vaccinations, health certificates and more.

Travelling by Metro

MexicoCity has a huge metro system, which is a cheap and relatively quick (during peak hour) way of getting around the city. However, pets are not permitted on the metro, along with the metrobus and other local buses. It’s best to use a pet-friendly rideshare.

Travelling by Rideshare

Uber and other rideshares are popular in Mexico, particularly with foreign visitors, due to their cheap prices and the safety of booking through an app. You can also use rideshare vehicles if you are travelling with a dog.

Mexico was one of the first countries to introduce Uber Pet, the option to book a car that will allow your pet to travel with you for a slightly higher rate. Try to book using this option.

If Uber Pet isn’t available, check with the driver in advance whether they’ll permit a dog in their vehicle. Consider bringing a blanket for them to sit on, if you aren’t transporting your pet in a carrier.

Pet-Friendly Accommodation in Mexico

The majority of accommodation in Mexico is not pet-friendly, whether you are looking for a hotel or holiday rental, although there are still a reasonable number of pet-friendly options to choose from.

For example, if you were looking for accommodation in Mexico City, Booking.com lists 1976 properties, including 599 hotels. Of these properties, 545 allow pets, including 114 hotels. So about 19% of hotels in Mexico City are pet-friendly.

Pet-friendly hotels in Mexico range from major hotel chains, that are also usually pet-friendly in the USA, through to small family-run guest houses. Pet fees are often charged, typically ranging from a small fee at budget properties through to fees of over $100 USD per stay at luxury hotels. There may also be restrictions on pet sizes, so always check in advance.

There are also a limited number of resorts in the coastal areas that allow pets to stay with you, including on the Mayan Riviera. Due to the limited number of pet-friendly properties in Mexico, it is always best to book your accommodation well in advance.

Dining Out in Mexico with a Dog

When it comes to restaurants and dogs in Mexico, generally dogs are not allowed inside restaurants, but are often allowed in outdoor dining areas. The rules are not entirely strict though, especially in rural areas.

It’s always best to ask in advance before entering. Alternatively, I noticed that a few restaurants in the tourist areas of San Miguel de Allende and Valle de Bravo had signs out the front stating that they were “pet-friendly” (with the wording in English). Keep an eye out!

Restaurant Zona Pet-Friendly Valle de Bravo

On the other hand, you’ll also notice quite a few stores that have signs stating no “mascotas” (pets in Spanish). These are common on the doors of bakeries, ice-cream stores that you need to steps inside and cafes with only indoor seating. These signs are also present on the doors of virtually all convenience stores.

If you’re having trouble finding a pet-friendly restaurant, you can always head to the local taqueria and grab some take-away, or take advantage of the many street-food stalls in Mexico.

Alternatively, check out the Mexico Pet Friendly site for some recommendations, mainly in the big cities.

Sightseeing in Mexico with a Dog

The options for sightseeing with a dog in Mexico are somewhat limited. For starters, dogs are not allowed at any of the many archeological sites across Mexico, despite the many stray dogs that you see around many sites.

If you’re a lover of history, the more pet-friendly option is to visit the many charming colonial cities dotted across Mexico. There’s no rules against your dog accompanying you while you wander their streets, view the exterior of the many cathedrals and fine public buildings, and photograph the colourful houses. Relax afterwards on the seats of the inevitable zocalo or central square.

Dogs are also typically more likely to be welcome at natural sites in Mexico, such as the popular petrified waterfall of Hierva al Agua outside Oaxaca City. (Dogs are allowed, just not in the pools.) I also noticed a sign for pet-friendly kayaking at the Valle de Bravo.

What about beaches in Mexico? Dogs are allowed to be walked on many beaches, but often popular tourist beaches have signs prohibiting dogs. This is the case at the main beaches in Tulum, although I still spotted some dogs on the sand.

Around Cancun, I’ve heard that some beaches allow dogs, although dogs are prohibited from most beaches. Check the signs or just follow the example of the locals.

Dog Parks in Mexico

Dog parks are still a rarity in Mexico, although this doesn’t stop locals from exercising their dogs in any local green spaces, whether on-leash or off-leash.

In Mexico City , while most of the huge Bosque de Chapultepec in Mexico City doesn’t permit dogs inside its boundaries, there is a designated off-leash dog area. Head to the area marked “Tamayo Park” on Google Maps, just to the east of the Anthropology Museum.

In San Miguel de Allende, we stayed next to Parque Guadiana, on the southern side of the town centre, which was very popular for on-leash dog walks.

Keeping Your Dog Safe in Mexico

In Mexico, there are a number of dangers for dogs that you should be aware of. Some dangers, such as the presence of snakes, scorpions and high temperatures, are also found across the border in the Southwestern United States. Don’t also forget about the dangers of cacti, and keep your dog well away from their spines.

There are also a few other dangers that are not found as often across the border. Firstly, in Mexico, there are a large number of stray dogs. While just walking around the streets, you’ll likely encounter dogs sleeping on the footpath. If your dog is reactive towards other dogs, you’ll have problems being out in public in Mexico.

Secondly, Mexicans are great lovers of fireworks, despite them being banned in the country. At times in certain cities, especially around festive periods, the sound of fireworks is a regular occurrence. If your dog is sensitive to the sound of fireworks, be alert to this.

About the Author

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

4 thoughts on “Dog-Friendly Mexico: Travelling in Mexico with a Dog”

Do you know of any laws protecting people with Service dogs who want to visit Cancun?

Sorry, I’m not across rules for service dogs, as I don’t have a service dog. I presume that service dogs will be allowed access, but in some countries the paperwork requirements can differ (or only apply to certain types of service dogs) and sometimes the rules are not always followed.

Hi, I am planning to travel with my dog from Barcelona to Mexico by plane. We are Eu citizens and my dog has an EU pet passport. Is there an agency or pet relocation company you can recommend which can help us do all the paperwork/travel documents for the trip?

James – Sorry, but I’m familiar with any pet relocation companies in Barcelona. I recommend asking in the “Animal Travelers” group on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/groups/713127742073317 . There’s a lot of people with a wealth of experience, and likely some people in Spain.

Traveling to Mexico With a Dog: 8 Vet-Approved Tips

By Rachel Giordano

Updated on Apr 12, 2024

pug dog sits near dog carrier and waiting for a travel

Vet approved

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Dr. Paola Cuevas

MVZ (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Some dog owners take their beloved pooch with them everywhere, even if it means traveling with their dog to a different country. Traveling with your dog is easier than it used to be, with more pet-friendly accommodations readily available and fewer restrictions. However, when traveling to Mexico with your beloved pooch, you must be aware of the country’s laws, policies, and requirements to be fully prepared.

In this post, we’ll discuss eight tips to consider before heading out so that you have everything in place to avoid a headache once you arrive.

Before You Leave

There are two common ways to get to Mexico from the US: by air or by car. If you plan to fly, you’ll need to check all requirements for that particular airline, as they all have their own policies and regulations, which will be explained later. If you’re traveling by car, your dog must be in a carrier before entering. You cannot have your dog in your lap before crossing the border.

The 8 Tips to Consider Before Traveling to Mexico With Your Dog

1. obtain a rabies certificate.

Despite the ease of the country’s restrictions when it comes to dogs entering, you still need to carry the required rabies certificate. The certificate may be asked by border control before entering, and if you do not have the certificate, you and your dog will be denied entry into the country. The rabies certificate cannot be expired, and ensure all pertinent information is on the certificate, such as the date given, your veterinarian’s information, the expiration date of the vaccine, your name and address, as well as the breed, sex, age, and color of your dog.

When returning to the United States from Mexico, you will not need to present a rabies certificate because Mexico is not considered a high-risk country for the disease. However, you will still need to provide a written or verbal statement explaining that your dog has not been in a high-risk country over the past 6 months before being allowed entry back into the US. 1

2. A Health Certificate Is Not Required

Since 2019, a health certificate for your dog is no longer required for entry into Mexico if you’re coming from the US or Canada. However, your dog will still be physically inspected upon arrival by SENASICA. 2 The inspection involves checking for lesions, external parasites, and the overall healthy appearance of your dog.

3. Ensure You Know the Traveling Rules With Your Airline

Despite a health certificate being no longer required for entry into Mexico, the airline you use may still require one before being allowed to board. It’s imperative to check with your airline to ensure you have all documentation in place before arriving at the airport. Some airlines allow you to add your pet upon purchasing your ticket, but we recommend calling to verify your pet is added to your itinerary.

Most dogs are allowed to fly in the cabin with you (if it’s a small dog), but some require the dog to be placed in the cargo area. All airlines have their own policies, and some only allow service animals to ride in the cabin. There may also be fees associated with traveling with your dog.

4. Bring Up-to-Date Vaccination Records

Even though a health certificate is no longer required for entry into Mexico, it’s still wise to bring all current vaccination records to prove your dog’s clean bill of health. The records should be legible and include the dates the vaccines were given to show the status. Such vaccinations should include the following:

Parainfluenza
Leptospirosis

5. Bring Your Dog’s Medical Records

This may seem like overkill, but it’s best to be overly prepared should you run into any snags. The more proof of your dog’s health you can provide, the better. Border patrol may ask for these records even though a health certificate is not required. It’s also a good idea to provide a list of any medications your dog is currently taking.

It’s also advised to treat your dog for fleas, ticks, and heartworms before traveling to the country, and providing proof is also a good idea.

6. Take Your Dog to Mexico’s OISA

Upon arrival, you must take your dog to the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA) for inspection. This is where SENASICA comes in for the physical inspection of your dog. They will check for external parasites (particularly ectoparasites), fresh wounds, or any signs of infectious or contagious diseases.

7. Have Your Dog in an Appropriate Carrier

Your dog’s carrier should be free from bedding, toys, or other accessories. If you leave these items inside, they could be destroyed, which can be heartbreaking if your dog’s favorite toy or blanket is confiscated. The carrier will also be sprayed for disinfecting purposes, so heads up.

8. Find Pet-Friendly Accommodations Before Arrival

Because of the high number of strays, there are claims that Mexico doesn’t hold dogs in high regard as we do in the US, but it’s getting better. That said, you will have a little harder time finding pet-friendly accommodations compared to the US, but it’s not impossible.

As for dining out, many restaurants do not allow dogs inside, but many cafes with outdoor seating are usually accommodating. It’s best to map out where you plan to go while you’re in the country and scope out any places you’d like to visit so you know where the dog-friendly places are. Remember that the better prepared you are, the better your experience will be.

It can be confusing figuring out what you need to travel to Mexico with your dog. If you’re driving , ensure you place your dog in a carrier before entering the border patrol, and leave out any bedding, blankets, or toys. When flying , ensure you know all requirements in order for your dog to travel with you.

See also: Traveling With a Dog to Europe: 10 Vet-Approved Tips
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel/by-country/pettravel-mexico
https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/dogs.html
https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/dog-origin.html#:~:text= This%20dog%20may%20enter%20the , risk%20countries%20for%20dog%20rabies .
https://apps.fas.usda.gov/newgainapi/api/report/downloadreportbyfilename?filename=Traveling%20With%20Pets%20to%20Mexico_Mexico_Mexico_3-11-2011.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/dog-origin.html#:~:text=This%20dog%20may%20enter%20the,risk%20countries%20for%20dog%20rabies

Featured Image Credit: Yekatseryna Netuk, Shutterstock

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Taking Pets to Mexico – How to Bring a Dog or Cat to Mexico

Last Updated: May 2, 2022 by Ann & Ron Reid
Categories:
Driving to Mexico , Pets , Tips

Dog and Cat Looking Out Car Window in Mexico

Dogs and cats are the only companion animals Mexico recognizes as pets. So, if you want to travel to Mexico with your dog or cat, you’re in luck.

As of December 16, 2019, Mexico no longer requires a health certificate from a veterinarian for dogs or cats to enter. If you are flying in, note that airline policies may differ. Be sure to check with your airline regarding its requirements and abide by whatever those are.

You need to bring proof of rabies vaccination, as it will be required to enter back into the U.S. if driving (although not often asked for). If flying, you’ll also need it to get into Mexico.

Pet Health Considerations in Mexico

Of course, you’ll want to keep your pet as healthy as possible while in Mexico. Below are some guidelines for keeping your dog or cat in tip top shape.

Food and Water

You are only allowed to bring in enough bulk food for a day, or up to fifty pounds of sealed, unopened bagged food.

Grocery stores carry standard pet food. If you are feeding a premium food, many veterinarian offices carry some of the popular brands. You can also find Petco stores in the larger cities in Mexico.

The other thing you need to think about is drinking water for your pet. Unless the water from the tap is safe for you to drink, it should not be considered safe for your pet. If you are drinking exclusively bottled or purified water, that is what you should be giving your dog or cat as well.

Vaccine recommendations for your pet can vary by location. Mexico is a low-risk country for rabies in dogs and cats, but the rabies vaccine is still required. Also treat your pets for fleas and ticks. Ehrlichia (a tick-borne disease) is found in dogs in Mexico.

It is also recommended that your dog(s) be vaccinated against Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza, as those diseases are found throughout the country.

Cats should be vaccinated for Feline panleukopenia (Distemper), Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Leukemia.

Depending upon where you live, you may or may not routinely treat your pets for heartworms, but it is advised for those bringing pets to Mexico. While heartworms aren’t found everywhere in Mexico, unless you know a local vet that can advise you as to its prevalence in the area you’re going to, it is better safe than sorry.

Driving to Mexico with Your Dog or Cat

If you are driving into Mexico, you are supposed to visit the nearest Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA) office upon entering the country. Contact the official personnel working with the National Service of Health, Food Safety, and Food Quality (SENASICA) to have your pet(s) inspected. OISA locations can be found here .

Fisherman and dogs in tidal pool in Rocky Point, Mexico

If you are intent on having your pet inspected upon driving in, you will want to find one of the offices labeled “FRONTERA” (border) in the “SITIO” (place) column of the table found in the link above. You will have to hunt them down, as these offices are not conveniently located. The agents you see at the border crossing are Aduanas (customs) and are not the agricultural inspectors and will have no interest in your pets.

Assuming you skip the inspection, there is not much else you need to do with regards to your pet dog or cat upon arrival. Except, your pet must be under your control while in Mexico.

Note that if you are going to an area that requires a TIP (Temporary Import Permit) , pets are not allowed in the buildings. If it’s hot, you’ll need to plan ahead in order to keep your pet safe in your vehicle. We took the locking fob off our keychain and kept the car running, with the air conditioning on, leaving the dogs inside, and the car locked. Or, if possible, one person can remain in the vehicle with the pet(s).

Flying to Mexico With Your Dog or Cat

If you are flying to Mexico with your pet, there are a few more details you need to know. Since Mexico no longer requires a health certificate for dogs or cats coming from the United States or Canada, some airlines are no longer requiring this for pets that are going to be flying in the cabin with you. However, most Mexican airlines are still requiring the certificate.

U.S. airlines are no longer required to recognize ESAs (Emotional Support Animals). ESAs are now considered pets and must conform to the airline requirements for animals in the cabin. The Department of Transportation (DOT) issued new regulations for service animals in December 2020. It appears most Mexican airlines are still allowing them with a note from a psychiatrist (NOT a psychologist).

When you land in Mexico with your pet, you will be directed to the OISA office for your pet’s inspection. They will want to see a rabies vaccine certificate and will look for evidence of fleas and/or ticks. Be prepared to show that your pet has been treated for these parasites or you may be required to wait for a vet to come and administer the treatment for you.

Finding Pet Friendly Lodging in Mexico

Finding pet friendly lodging in Mexico is not that hard. Many hotels allow pets. There are web sites, such as BringFido.com that list pet friendly hotel. Or, a simple Google search for “pet friendly hotels” in the area you’ll be visiting will return many options. Always call and confirm with the property that they will accept your pet, as sometimes the internet listing is mistaken, or all their pet rooms are taken.

Wrapping It Up

All in all, Mexico makes traveling or living there with your pet easy and straightforward. By paying attention to a few details, you and your dog(s) or cat(s) should have an enjoyable adventure exploring the wonders of Mexico. Here’s a summary of our tips for taking your pets into Mexico.

What’s Required:

Proof of a rabies vaccination for each pet you bring to Mexico
ONLY enough food for one day OR up to 50 pounds of sealed, unopened, bagged food for your pet
A health certificate if your airline requires it
Upon landing in Mexico, take your pet to the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA).
Have proof of rabies vaccination
Have proof of flea & tick treatment

Vaccinate dogs against Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza.
Vaccinate cats against Feline panleukopenia (Distemper), Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Leukemia.
Treat pets for heartworms (unless you know there is no problem in your Mexico destination).
Treat your pet for fleas & ticks.

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Traveling to Mexico with a Dog or Cat

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: March 29, 2024

Categories Mexico

Home » Mexico » Traveling to Mexico with a Dog or Cat

Traveling to Mexico with a dog or cat is pretty straightforward, as long as your pet is in good health. You no longer need a health certificate to travel to Mexico with a pet. If you’re flying, you need an up-to-date rabies vaccine certificate. Your dog needs to be in a clean, approved kennel. You will need to visit the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA) so your pet can be inspected by a SENASICA official. They will inspect for infectious or contagious disease, parasites (fleas and ticks), and open wounds. This guide outlines everything you need to know about traveling to Mexico with a dog or cat.

In this guide, we’ll cover documentation requirements, how to transport your pet, health inspection, pet food, vaccine requirements, veterinary care, and more. Whether you’re driving to Mexico, walking across the border, or flying, there is no need to leave your pet behind. This guide focuses on dogs and cats. We’ll also talk about entry requirements for other types of common pets. In addition, we’ll outline the rules for bringing your pets back home with you.

This guide focuses on U.S. and Canadian travelers. Most of the info also applies to travelers from other countries as well. I have lived in Tijuana for the past 3 years. During that time, I have crossed the border with my dog Teddy on several occassions. In this guide, I’ll outline my experience.

Key Takeaways

– You do not need a health certificate to travel to Mexico with a dog or cat if you’re traveling from the U.S. or Canada. Some airlines do require a health certificate. Check with your airline. – Your pet does need an up-to-date rabies vaccine certificate. It is also a good idea to bring proof of parasite prevention (fleas, ticks, lice, and mites.) -You can enter Mexico with up to 2 dogs or cats per person. Most airlines only allow one pet per person. – Your pet may be inspected when you arrive in Mexico to ensure they are in good health and free of ticks and parasites. – Your pet must be kept in an airline-compliant kennel when flying. You can only bring a small amount of food. There should not be any bedding or toys in the kennel -If you’re traveling with more than 2 pets or exotic pets, contact your nearest Mexican consulate before your trip – The rules are not consistently enforced. You may not be asked for any documentation or inspection.

Table of Contents

Traveling to Mexico Overland with a Dog
Flying to Mexico With a Dog
Documents to Bring
Pet Food and Water

Crates and Kennels

Pet Inspection when Arriving in Mexico
Returning Home With Your Dog
Tips for Traveling with a Pet in Mexico

Traveling to Mexico by Land with a Dog or Cat

Walking or Driving across the US-Mexico border with a dog or cat is easy. As of 2019, you no longer need any documentation to bring your pet to Mexico, as long as your pet is in good health. You don’t need a health certificate from your veterinarian. You don’t need proof of parasite prevention or proof of rabies vaccination.

If you’re driving to Mexico from the Southern Border with Guatemala or Belize, you will need to show a health certificate from a veterinarian. I’ll talk more in-depth about this document later on.

When you walk or drive across the border to Mexico, your pet needs to be inspected at the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA) by a SENASICA official. To find the animal inspection office at the border, look for signs that read ‘SAGARPA/SENSAICA’.

You must bring your pet into the office in a clean cage or pet carrier. An official will inspect your pet to verify that they are in good health and are free of ticks and other parasites. They will also inspect for open wounds. If your pet is in good health, you are free to proceed into Mexico.

Not every land border has an OISA office and SENASICA inspector. In fact, pet inspection is uncommon at land borders. If there is no inspection office, you can just drive or walk across the border with your pet.

When returning to the U.S with your pet, you may need to show proof of rabies vaccine depending on which state you cross into and how thorough the immigration official is. If your pet has been outside of the U.S. for more than 6 months, you may need to show a health certificate before your pet is allowed to return.

The process is the same if you’re entering Mexico by sea. Look for a zoo sanitary office at the port. Not all ports have an animal inspection office.

Flying to Mexico with a Dog or Cat

When you fly into Mexico from the U.S. or Canada, you don’t need to show any documentation for your dog or cat, as long as they are in good health. You do not need to show a health certificate from a veterinarian. You also don’t need to show proof of rabies vaccine. If you’re flying from any country other than the U.S. or Canada, you will need a health certificate from your veterinarian.

You will need an airline-compliant cage or kennel to keep your pet in during the flight. You can only bring enough pet food for the day of your arrival. Pet toys must be clean. You may have to discard your pet’s bedding upon arrival.

Airlines sometimes have stricter requirements for flying pets. For example, some airlines require your pet to have a health certificate from a vet, even if you’re flying from the U.S. or Canada. Some airlines also require a rabies vaccine certificate. Airlines can also have their own rules regarding pet cages, food, and bedding. You’ll need to check your airline’s pet requirements before your flight.

Upon arrival in Mexico, you’ll be directed to an OISA zoo sanitary office in the airport where a SENASICA official will perform an inspection of your pet. In most airports, this is just a small kiosk or office near customs. The official will look for signs of infectious or contagious disease, parasites, and open wounds. After passing the inspection, you’re allowed to bring your pet into Mexico.

When flying back to the U.S, you may need to show proof of rabies vaccine depending on the airport you fly into. You’ll want to check the requirements before your flight. It’s a good idea to bring an up-to-date rabies vaccine certificate.

Documents you May Need when Traveling to Mexico with a Dog or Cat

Whether or not you need to bring any documents with you to travel to Mexico with a dog or cat depends on where you’re coming from, your mode of travel, and your pet’s health.

If your pet is healthy and you’re traveling from the U.S. or Canada, you probably don’t need any documents at all. In most cases, you don’t need any documents to return home with your pet either.

If you’re traveling from outside of the U.S. or Canada, you may need some supporting documentation to travel to Mexico with your pet.

If your pet has a health issue, you may also need to bring supporting documentation to prove that they are being treated and are not contagious.

A few documents you may need to bring with you include:

Health certificate- This is a document from your vet that proves that your pet is in good health.
Rabies vaccine certificate- This proves that your pet’s rabies vaccine is up to date.
Other vaccine records- Record for standard pet vaccines including parvo, distemper, hepatitis, etc.
Record of medication- This proves that your pet has been treated for fleas, mites, ticks, heartworm, etc.
Proof of ownership- Your pet’s registration acts as proof of ownership.
Veterinarian treatment instructions- This would only be necessary if your pet is under treatment for some kind of infection, parasite, or lesion.

Chances are, you won’t need all of these documents. You may not need any of them. In the following sections, I’ll outline each document in more in-depth and explain when you’ll need it and when you won’t.

Health Certificate for Mexico

If you’re traveling from the United States or Canada to Mexico with a dog or cat, you do not need a health certificate. You don’t need a health certificate to return to the U.S. or Canada either. This requirement was recently eliminated. Before December 2019, Mexico required a health certificate from your vet in order to bring your pet across the border.

You will need to show a health certificate if you’re flying to Mexico from outside of the U.S. or Canada. For example, European travelers need to obtain a health certificate for their pet before traveling to Mexico. You will also need a health certificate if you’re driving or walking across the border to Mexico from Guatemala or Belize.

Some airlines require a health certificate, even if you’re flying from the U.S. or Canada. This is the case with Aeromexico. Some airlines only require a health certificate if your pet is flying cargo but not if your pet is riding in the cabin. This is the case with Delta, United, and Alaska Air. If you plan to fly into Mexico, be sure to check the airline’s pet policy first to see what documents they require. These policies can change at any time.

What is the Health Certificate?

The health certificate is a document from your veterinarian that shows that your pet is in good health and has had all of its required vaccinations.

The health certificate should include the following information:

A description of the animal- Breed, name, color, age, identifying markings, etc.
Your name and address in your country of residence- You should also include the address where you plan to stay in Mexico if you know where you’re staying.
The date that the animal was vaccinated for rabies and distemper- These vaccines must be administered at least 15 days before you arrive in Mexico. Animals that are younger than 3 months are exempt.
A declaration from your vet stating that the animal was in good health upon inspection- The declaration should also state that the animal was de-wormed within 6 months of its arrival in Mexico
The vet’s license number and signature- To prove that the document is authentic.

Your pet’s health certificate must be issued by a licensed veterinarian in your home country. The document must be printed on headed or sealed paper from your vet. It cannot be handwritten.

Your pet’s health certificate should be issued no more than 15 days before your arrival in Mexico. You should bring the original as well as a photocopy. It’s also a good idea to take a photo of the document or scan it and back the file up to your email or cloud storage so you can access it from anywhere.

Rabies Vaccine Certificate

Mexico does not require proof of rabies vaccine for your dog or cat. You may be asked to present a rabies vaccine certificate when flying, driving, or walking into the U.S. Whether or not you need this document depends on the state you’re entering and the immigration official you talk to. Some airlines also require proof of rabies vaccine for your pet, regardless of your destination.

Even if it’s not required, it’s a good idea to bring a valid rabies vaccine certificate when traveling with your pet, just to be safe. You never know when you’ll be asked.

Most rabies vaccines that are administered to pets are valid for 1 or 3 years. The 3 year vaccine is accepted.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Dogs that have not been in a high-risk country in the previous 6 months are not required by the CDC to present a rabies vaccination certificate or other paperwork, but vaccination against rabies is recommended.” Mexico is not considered a high-risk country for rabies.

That said, some states can require you to show a rabies vaccine certificate for your dog before you can enter. For example, according to the California Department of Food and Agriculture, “Dogs over four (4) months of age must have documentation proving current rabies vaccination.”

Before your trip, you’ll want to check the rabies vaccine requirements in the state you plan to drive or fly into. When flying into the U.S., you will need to present a valid rabies vaccine certificate in most cases. When driving in, you probably won’t be asked for this document, even if it is listed as a requirement. Again, it is highly recommended that you bring your pet’s proof of rabies vaccine, just to be safe.

I know of a couple of people who regularly drive between San Diego and Tijuana with their dogs. They have never been asked for a vaccine certificate. That said, the immigration official could ask you to prove that your dog has been vaccinated. It is within their rights.

Many airlines also require you to show proof of rabies vaccine for your pet before they allow your pet to board. This is the case with Aeromexico. If you’re flying into Mexico, you’ll want to check the airline’s policy before your trip.

The rabies vaccine certificate should contain the following information:

Date of the vaccination
Date that the vaccination expires
Name and address of the dog’s owner
Identifying information about the dog- This could include breed, sex, color, age, distinctive markings, etc.
Information about the rabies vaccine- This could include the brand, name, and lot number of the vaccine. Both 1 and 3 year vaccines are accepted.
Information about the veterinarian who administered the rabies vaccine- This includes the name, business name and address, license number, and signature.

The vaccine must be administered at least 15 days before your pet’s arrival in Mexico in order for it to be valid. Puppies and kittens under 3 months old are exempt from the rabies vaccine requirement.

Before your trip, make sure the vaccine certificate will still be valid when you return home. You don’t want it to expire during your trip.

If you are unable to prove that your dog is vaccinated for rabies, you could be turned away and told to return with a current rabies vaccine certificate. In this case, you would have to take your dog to a vet in Mexico to get the rabies vaccine.

Tip: when you get your dog vaccinated for rabies, ask the vet for a backup original vaccine certificate so you have a copy in case one gets lost or destroyed. Leave one at home and take the other with you. It’s also a good idea to scan or take a photo of the certificate and email it to yourself or store it in the cloud. This way, you can access it whenever you need. In most cases, a photo of the vaccine certificate will be valid.

Other Pet Vaccine Records

Chances are you won’t need vaccine records but it’s a good idea to bring them with you just in case, if you have them.

The main dog vaccines include distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvo, and parainfluenza. For a complete list of dog vaccines, check out this helpful guide from the American Kennel Club (AKC).

The main cat vaccines include Viral Rhinotracheitis, Panleukopenia virus (feline distemper), and Calicivirus.

Veterinarian Treatment Instructions

If your dog or cat is being treated for a sickness, parasite, lesion, or infection, you’ll need to bring a copy of the diagnosis and treatment instructions from your veterinarian. This document should include your veterinarian’s information such as their name, license number/registration number, address, phone number, etc.

This information proves that your pet is being properly treated for its medical condition. If you try to bring an obviously sick, injured, or unhealthy pet to Mexico, you could be denied entry.

If your pet is being treated for something, it is also a good idea to ask your vet if they’re healthy enough to travel. Travel can be extremely stressful for pets. You wouldn’t want their condition to worsen. If your pet isn’t in good health, it’s best to leave them at home.

Prescriptions for Medications

If your dog or cat is on any medications, you should bring the prescription with you. This proves that your pet is being properly treated. The prescription proves that the medication you’re carrying is legal and necessary. You don’t want to get caught carrying some strange drug while you’re in Mexico.

Your pet’s prescriptions can also come in handy if you have to buy new medication for your pet while you’re in Mexico. If the medication you brought with you gets lost, gets destroyed, or runs out, you could just buy more with your prescription.

You may want to buy more of your pet’s medication anyway while you’re in Mexico. Most pet medications are significantly cheaper in Mexico than in the U.S. or Canada.

Dog and Cat Food

Officially, you’re only allowed to bring enough dog or cat food into Mexico for the day of arrival. This rule isn’t usually strictly enforced. You could probably bring enough food for a few days without any trouble. There is a chance that customs confiscates the extra food at the border. Keep that in mind if you decide to bring a big bag of dog food with you.

You can buy dog food, treats, toys, and supplies at most major supermarkets in Mexico. If you need a more specialty item, you may need to go to a pet store. Several large chain pet stores exist in Mexico including Petco, Petland, and Petsy. You’ll find a location in most large cities. You’ll also find smaller independent pet stores all across the country. Mexicans love their pets. You’ll find all of your favorite brands of dog food in Mexico.

Can Dogs Drink the Tap Water in Mexico?

It is generally unsafe for humans to drink tap water in Mexico. Everyone drinks filtered water or bottled water instead. This is because the water is often contaminated with bacteria, parasites, protozoa, heavy metals, viruses, and other contaminants.

Dogs and cats can drink tap water in Mexico. Almost all pet owners in Mexico give their pets tap water. Dogs can handle the tap water because they have stronger stomach acids that can help fight off any bacteria that is present in the water. They won’t get sick.

For more info, check out my guide to tap water in Mexico.

How to Transport a Dog or Cat to Mexico: Crates and Kennels

When you’re driving into Mexico, you should secure your dog or cat in a crate, pet carrier, or kennel during the border crossing. Even if your dog is friendly, this is a good practice. Immigration officials may ask to inspect your belongings. You don’t want your dog to get frightened and bite one of them. There may also be other dogs around, such as police dogs, that could get your dog riled up.

If you’re flying to Mexico, you’ll have to keep your pet in a kennel during the flight and while you’re passing through airports. Be sure to check your airline’s pet policy and pet carrier requirements before you buy a ticket.

Some airlines are stricter than others. Some have specific requirements for pets. For example, some airlines do not allow pets in the cabin of the aircraft. They can only fly as cargo. Some airlines don’t accept pets at all. There may also be flight time restrictions. Some airlines only allow pets in the cabin on flights that are 6 hours or less. Be sure to check the rules before you book your flight.

Most airlines also charge a fee to travel with a pet. The fee can vary depending on the size of your pet and whether they fly in the cabin or in the cargo area. On average, expect to spend $100-$200 each way to fly with a cat or dog.

The ideal pet carrier or kennel for your flight depends on the size of your pet and whether your pet is traveling in the cabin or cargo area. Try to choose a carrier with the following characteristics:

Secure- The door must close securely so your pet can’t escape.
Good ventilation- The crate should have ventilation on at least 3 sides so your pet can breathe easily if one side gets blocked.
Size- The carrier must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down in. If your pet is riding in the cabin, the carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Check with your airline for acceptable dimensions.
Material- If your pet is riding in the cargo area, the carrier must be rigid. It could be made from plastic, metal, fiberglass, or some other durable material. Soft carriers are acceptable if your pet is traveling in the cabin.
Labeled ‘airline approved’- When buying a pet carrier only choose one that is designed to fly with. Airline-approved carriers are durable and are designed to the specifications of most major airlines. Carriers made from cardboard and homemade carriers are usually not accepted.

The base of the carrier must be lined with an absorbent material so the crate doesn’t leak if your pet has to go to the bathroom during the flight. You can buy absorbent dog crate liners at any pet store. If you don’t have any purpose-made liners, you can use shredded newspaper. The crate liner will need to be discarded when you enter Mexico.

Before you drive across the border or go to the airport, make sure the crate, bedding, toys, etc. are all clean. If they appear dirty, you may get hassled at the border. Particularly if you have to go to an OISA office. An official may confiscate any dirty items or apply disinfectant to your crate and other items. You must discard disposable bedding such as newspaper and rags at the border.

You must also properly label the crate or kennel with:

Your address
A contact phone number
The address where you’re staying in Mexico
Arrows indicating which way is up
The words LIVE ANIMAL. This should be displayed prominently in capital letters. Consider writing this in Spanish as well as ‘ANIMAL VIVO’.
Your pet should also be wearing an ID tag on their collar with their name and your contact information.

Pet Food and Drink During Transit

If your pet is flying in the cabin with you, they must remain in the carrier for the duration of your flight. You are not supposed to provide food or water to your pet during the flight. You should ensure your pet has eaten and had plenty of water before boarding the plane. Empty your pet’s water dish before you board so it doesn’t spill.

If your pet is flying cargo, you should leave two empty dishes in the crate. These should be attached to the inside of the crate so they don’t spill. They should also be accessible from outside the crate so they can be filled without opening the crate. If there is a delay, airline staff will fill a dish with water for your pet. Some airlines even allow you to bring extra food for staff to feed your pet.

Some travelers freeze water in a bowl and place this bowl in the crate before heading to the airport. The ice melts during the flight and your pet can drink if they get thirsty. There won’t be any spills while your pet is being loaded because the water is frozen.

You should avoid feeding your dog for two hours before a domestic flight or four hours before an international flight. If your dog has a full stomach, they can feel uncomfortable and bloated while they’re cooped up in their cage during the flight. Ideally, your pet should fly on an empty stomach. Feed them when you arrive at your destination.

Mexico Entry Requirements for Humans

When you arrive at the port of entry, you’ll have to get an FMM visitor’s permit for yourself. The FMM is a travel document that allows citizens of the U.S., Canada, U.K, Australia, European Schengen countries, Japan, and a number of other countries to travel to Mexico without having to arrange a visa in advance. Everyone traveling to Mexico for tourism purposes has to get an FMM.

If you’re driving to Mexico, you’ll have to park your car at the border and walk into the immigration office to obtain an FMM. If you’re walking across the border, you’ll fill out an FMM when passing through immigration. When flying to Mexico, you’ll get your FMM at immigration at the airport.

If you’re staying in Mexico for more than 7 days, you’ll have to pay a fee of around 595 pesos or $30. If you’re staying in Mexico for less than 7 days, there is no fee. For more info, check out my guide to the FMM visitor’s permit.

If you’re driving to Mexico and you plan to drive outside of the border region or free zones, you’ll also need to arrange a Temporary Import Permit for your vehicle (TIP). This document allows you to legally drive your foreign-plated vehicle in Mexico. For more info on where you need this document and how to get it, check out my guide to the temporary import permit.

Arriving in Mexico With Your Dog or Cat

Each person is permitted to bring two pets to Mexico. This could be two cats, two dogs, or a cat and a dog. This is a per-person limit. If you are traveling with your partner, you could bring 4 pets (2 each). Many airlines only allow one pet per person. If you’re flying, check with your airline first.

When importing 1-3 pets, the health inspection and import process is free of charge. If you are bringing 4 or more pets to Mexico, there is an additional import and processing fee. I was not able to find the exact fee but I believe it is around 2000 pesos (around $100.) If you’re traveling with 4 or more pets, you should contact your nearest Mexican embassy or consulate before your trip to check for additional requirements. You may have to pay an additional fee.

If you’re not arriving from the U.S. or Canada, you’ll need to present a health certificate for each pet. The health certificate must be issued by a licensed veterinarian. It should include proof of rabies and distemper vaccines.

If you arrive from outside of the U.S. or Canada without a valid health certificate, you will be offered the opportunity to hire a veterinarian in Mexico to come to the port of entry, inspect your pet, and issue you a health certificate. You will have to pay for this service out of pocket. If you can’t produce a health certificate, your pet may be denied entry.

Pet Inspection When Arriving in Mexico

When you arrive in Mexico, an immigration official may ask you to take your dog or cat to the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA). This is a part of customs. At this office, an agent from Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria (SAGARPA/SENSAICA) will inspect your pet’s health. You will also need to present your pet’s health certificate to the official, if a health certificate is required.

The SENSAICA agent looks for:

Signs of infectious or contagious disease
Ectoparasites- including fleas, ticks, lice, and mites
Fresh wounds or healing wounds
A health certificate and up-to-date rabies vaccine certificate (if required)

This is just a quick inspection.

These inspections are not common when driving across the border. In fact, most smaller border crossings don’t even have an OISA office. In most cases, there is nobody at the border to inspect your pet. Immigration officials are not certified to perform this inspection. If there is no OISA office, you will just pass through customs normally with your pet. Your pet is more likely to be inspected at larger border crossings and sea ports.

Pet inspections are common when flying into Mexico. Customs is more strict at airports. All international airports in Mexico have an OISA office.

If ectoparasites are found during the inspection, you will be asked to contact a veterinarian in Mexico to treat your pet. A sample of the parasite may be taken for lab testing. In this case, your pet will have to stay at the OISA office until the results come back and the treatment is complete.

If the results show that the parasites are not foreign to Mexico and the parasites are removed or treated by a vet, your dog will be allowed to enter. If not, the SENASICA agent will determine the best course of action. All costs incurred in this process will be your responsibility.

For this reason, it’s best to make sure your pet is in good health and free of parasites before you travel to Mexico. If you’re in doubt, take your pet to the vet first to make sure they’re healthy. Even though this isn’t a requirement, it could end up saving you money.

Returning to Home from Mexico with Your Dog

Before returning home with your pet, you’ll have to find out which documents you’ll need in order to re-import your pet into your home country. Some countries require a health certificate. In this case, you’ll have to visit a licensed Mexican veterinarian and ask for a ‘Certificado Zoosanitario’ (zoosanitary certificate).

Many countries also require a rabies vaccine certificate. This is a requirement in many U.S. states. You’ll want to make sure the vaccine is still valid when you plan to return home.

Some countries also require a pet import permit or some other type of legal document. This is less common. You would only need this if you traveled to a country with a high risk of rabies.

In rare cases, your pet may need to be quarantined. This means your pet would need to stay in a quarantine facility for a predetermined period of time before you’re allowed to take them home. This would only happen if your pet was infected with a contagious disease or invasive parasite.

Regulations can vary by state or province as well. You will be responsible for all expenses involved in re-importing your pet.

For this reason, it’s important to check the import requirements before you leave your home country with your pet. If you find that the requirements are too strict or too expensive to comply with, you may not want to travel with your pet.

Generally, it’s pretty easy to bring your pet back to the U.S. or Canada after traveling to Mexico. In most cases, all you’ll need is a rabies vaccine certificate.

Restriction on Pet Imports to the United States

(If you’re not planning to travel outside of the U.S. or Mexico with your dog, you don’t have to worry about this. You can skip this section.)

Starting June 14, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) suspended dog imports from countries that are considered high risk for rabies. This includes dogs that originated in the U.S. that are returning to the U.S. after visiting a country that has a high for rabies. If you take your dog from the U.S to a country with a high risk for rabies, you won’t be able to bring them back without a permit or quarantine.

If you take your dog outside of Mexico to a country with a high risk of rabies, you have two options. You can apply for advance written approval from the CDC (CDC dog import permit) to return with your pet. These permits are only issued on a limited basis and require additional documentation. You will also need to fly into one of 18 approved airports with your dog and CDC import permit. The other option is to quarantine your dog outside of a high-risk country for 6 months.

If you try to fly to the U.S. with a dog from a country with a high risk for rabies, your dog will be denied entry and will be flown back to the origin country at your expense.

Mexico is NOT considered a high-risk country for rabies. If you only plan to take your dog to Mexico, you don’t have to worry about this new rule. You can view the complete list of countries with a high risk of rabies here.

This rule can cause issues if you were planning on traveling to a third country outside of Mexico with your dog during your trip. You won’t be able to return home with your dog unless you obtain an import permit from the CDC or quarantine your dog for 6 months. These import permits are difficult to obtain. They are only issued if you have a good reason.

Maybe you plan to drive from the U.S. to Belize through Mexico. When you return to the U.S. with your dog, an immigration official may ask you where your dog has been during the past 6 months. If your dog traveled to a country that has a high risk for rabies, your dog will be denied entry.

You shouldn’t lie about this. The officer can look through your passport for proof that you’ve been to another country. If they see that you entered Mexico and then traveled to a country with a high risk for rabies, without returning to the U.S. in between, they will assume that your dog came with you and your dog won’t be allowed to return.

You can read more about this policy on the CDC’s website here.

Update: As of June 2022, you can now re-enter the U.S. from a country with a high risk of rabies with your dog as long as your dog was vaccinated against rabies by a U.S. licensed veterinarian in the United States. The vaccine must be up to date. The dog must also be microchipped. In addition, the dog must be older than 6 months and healthy. You still have to fly into one of the 18 approved airports.

Banned Breeds in Mexico

Mexico doesn’t ban any dog breeds. You can travel to Mexico with any breed of dog as long as you follow the rules outlined in this guide.

Traveling to Mexico with Puppies or Kittens

The rules for traveling to Mexico with a puppy or kitten are the same as traveling with a fully grown dog or cat. There is one exception. If your puppy or kitten is less than 3 months old, it does not need a rabies vaccine certificate. They are exempt. Puppies and kittens that are younger than 3 months shouldn’t get a rabies shot.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

Starting in 2021, emotional support animals are considered pets on most U.S. airlines. They are no longer considered service animals. Many airlines changed their rules because people were taking advantage of the more lenient ESA policy to fly with their pets.

This means your emotional support animal will need to follow the same rules as any other pet when flying. They can only fly in the cabin with you if they are permitted to under the airline’s pet policy.

Some airlines still recognize emotional support animals separate from pets but have more strict requirements for taking them in the cabin with you. For example, Aeromexico now requires a medical certificate from a psychiatric physician (not a psychologist) to prove that your emotional support animal is legitimate. There is also a form that you must fill out prior to your flight if you wish to bring your emotional support animal on the plane with you.

Be sure to check your airline’s policy regarding emotional support animals before your flight. You can find more info on Aeromexico’s policy on their website here.

Pet Insurance in Mexico

If you have pet insurance, chances are it isn’t valid in Mexico. You may want to consider buying a short-term policy to cover your pet during your trip. Just like you would buy travel insurance for yourself. Pet insurance can cover:

A visit to a veterinarian- If your pet gets sick or injured while in Mexico, insurance can help with the cost of treatment.
Civil liability- If your pet injures someone, injures another pet, or causes property damage while you’re in Mexico, insurance can help cover the cost.
Death of your pet- If your pet passes away in Mexico, insurance can help cover the cost of cremation.

Pet insurance is not required to enter Mexico with your dog or cat. It can bring peace of mind. It is important to note that veterinary care is much cheaper in Mexico than it is in the U.S. or Canada so you may not need insurance.

Traveling to Mexico for Veterinary Care

Veterinarian services are extremely expensive in the U.S. and Canada. These days, many people take their pets to Mexico for more affordable treatment. Just like many humans travel across the border for affordable dental and health care.

Taking your dog to the vet in Mexico can save you a ton of money. In many cases, the vet bill in Mexico will be 60-80% lower than it would be in the U.S for the same treatment and same quality of care. Traveling to Mexico for veterinary care can allow you to save your pet’s life if you can’t afford the treatment in your home country.

For example, maybe your regular vet quotes you $5,000 for a major procedure. The same procedure in Mexico might cost $1000. Even when factoring in the cost of travel it would be far cheaper to have the procedure done in Mexico.

Veterinary hospitals are common in Mexico. Even in small towns. Before you take your pet for treatment, do some research and read reviews online. Generally, the level of care is excellent. Mexican veterinarians have access to the same tools and technologies and use the same techniques as American vets. They have the same education. Of course, quality varies. Some vets are better than others. If you don’t speak Spanish, you can find English-speaking vets who cater to foreign pet owners.

If your pet is on any kind of medication, consider buying it in Mexico as well while you’re there. Pet medications are far cheaper in Mexico. You can save a good amount of money this way. Be sure to bring your prescriptions if you plan to do this.

Before bringing your pet to Mexico for a medical procedure, it’s a good idea to get a health certificate. Particularly if your pet appears unwell. This way, you can show the immigration official that you are bringing your pet to Mexico for medical care.

Tips for Traveling With Your Pet in Mexico

If you’re taking a road trip through Mexico with your pet, be sure to bring plenty of supplies. Particularly water. Mexico is a hot country. Your pet will need to drink more than usual to keep hydrated.

Never leave your pet alone in the car on a hot day. The heat can be fatal. Take your pet with you if you’re getting out of the car.

Also, take plenty of breaks. There are rest stops along Mexico’s highways. You’ll also pass through plenty of towns and villages where you and your pet can stretch your legs and go to the bathroom.

Taking a Long-Distance Bus with a Pet in Mexico

Most Mexican bus companies allow dogs and cats to travel in a kennel or crate in the cargo hold under the bus. Contact the bus company before you book your trip to check their policy and reserve a spot for your pet. During the trip, make sure your pet has plenty of food and water.

By Mexican law, certified service pets must be allowed on board the bus. You will need documentation to prove that your dog is a service pet.

Ideally, your pet should be sedated for the bus journey. A bus trip can be extremely stressful for a pet. You should avoid taking bus journeys longer than 8 hours with your pet. If you have to take a longer trip, consider breaking it up and stopping somewhere mid-way to give your pet a break.

If you expect temperatures higher than 30℃ or 86℉, you should avoid taking the bus with your pet. The cargo hold on buses is not climate-controlled like the pet compartment on airplanes. It could get extremely hot and uncomfortable for your pet.

Mexico’s largest bus company, ADO, allows pets to travel in crates under the bus for no extra charge as long as they weigh less than 25 kg (55 lbs). Only two pets are permitted per bus so you should reserve a spot for your pet in advance to ensure there is room.

For more info, check out this guide to taking a pet on a bus from ADO.

Walking Your Dog in Mexico

In large cities, most local pet owners take their dogs to a public park for their daily walks. Larger Mexican cities have beautiful parks and plazas that are dog friendly. Some cities also have dog parks. Dog walking services are also available. In smaller towns and rural regions, you can walk your dog in town or in the countryside.

You can also walk your dog on most beaches in Mexico. It’s important to note that some beaches do prohibit dogs. This is common in touristy areas such as Riviera Maya, Cancun, Los Cabos, and Puerto Vallarta. Before taking your dog for a walk on the beach, look for signs indicating that dogs are prohibited.

When walking your dog in Mexico, you should pick up their mess and properly dispose of it. You’ll find waste bins in public parks, plazas, tourist areas, and on walking streets.

It’s a good idea to keep an eye out for discarded food and other trash in the street while walking your dog. You don’t want your dog to eat something bad and get sick.

Stray Dogs in Mexico

Mexico has long been known for its stray dogs. They can be found roaming the streets and hanging around marketplaces looking for scraps of food to eat. In some parts of Mexico, strays are extremely common.

Stray dogs can be dangerous. You’ll want to be careful while walking your dog. You wouldn’t want your dog to get into a fight with a stray. Strays can carry parasites and diseases. It’s best to keep your distance. You’ll need to be particularly careful if your dog reacts to other dogs. If you’re worried about strays, consider taking your dog to a park for a walk.

The population of stray dogs in Mexico has declined sharply in recent years. This is due in part to government initiatives that have sought to control the stray dog population. As a result of these efforts, the number of stray dogs in Mexico has decreased significantly. While there are still plenty of strays around, even though they are much less common than they once were. The government has also put in an effort to have every dog vaccinated for rabies. As a result, rabies is incredibly rare in Mexico. Even among street dogs.

Pet Friendly Accommodation in Mexico

Most hotels and Airbnbs in Mexico do not allow pets. This makes it a bit harder to find a place to stay when traveling with a dog in Mexico.

When searching for accommodation online, sort by pet-friendly properties. Most booking sites include this option in the advanced search settings. This allows you to filter out any hotels that don’t accept pets. Some larger hotels charge a pet deposit or an additional pet fee of $10-$20 per night.

If you have trouble finding accommodation that accepts pets, consider going camping. Campgrounds almost always welcome dogs to stay.

If your pet is a service animal, you don’t have to worry about this. All hotels must allow service animals to stay in by law. You may need documentation to prove that your pet is a service animal before a hotel will accept them.

Pet Friendly Restaurants in Mexico

Most restaurants in Mexico are not pet-friendly. They only accept service dogs. Some local restaurants in smaller towns may allow you to bring a well-behaved dog in with you. Some restaurants offer outdoor seating. Pets may be welcome there. You’ll have to check with each restaurant before you bring your dog in. It is less common for people to go out to eat with their pets in Mexico than it is in the U.S. To find a restaurant that accepts pets, you may have to go to a trendy neighborhood.

Driving to Mexico With Other Pets

In Mexico, only cats and dogs are classified as pets. The information in this guide only applies to cats and dogs. Other types of animals such as reptiles, birds, rodents, amphibians, etc. have different import rules.

Importing and exporting birds and reptiles can be a particularly complex process involving both import and export documents. These animals are highly regulated so people don’t transport endangered species or disease-carrying animals across borders.

If you want to bring your pet reptile, bird, rodent, fish, etc. into Mexico, you’ll have to check the import regulations for that particular animal. The regulations can vary by region so be sure to check the requirements for your specific destination. The best way to learn the requirements is to call your closest Mexican embassy or consulate. In most cases, you’ll at least need a health certificate from a vet.

To import a bird to Mexico, for example, you must obtain a health certificate from a Veterinary Services veterinarian. The health certificate must follow a strict set of guidelines in order to be considered valid. You cannot import any bird food or bedding into Mexico. You must also request a letter from DINESA if you plan to transport your bird through an area where avian influenza has been an issue. Other regulations may also apply.

You’ll also need to check your home country’s rules for exporting and re-importing animals. Some countries are more strict than others. You may have to get a health certificate for the return trip or apply for an import permit. Proof of various vaccines may be required. For rules on returning to the U.S. with a pet, check out this guide from the USDA.

If you’re flying to Mexico, it’s also important to check the airline’s policy for traveling with animals other than cats and dogs. The best way to learn the requirements is to call the airline directly. These rules sometimes aren’t posted online.

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)

CITES is an international agreement between governments, enacted in 1975. Its goal is to ensure that international trade in endangered species of wild fauna and flora does not threaten the survival of these species. CITES lists more than 35,000 plant and animal species that are protected from over-exploitation through international trade. The United States and Mexico are both parties to CITES, meaning that they have agreed to enact laws and regulations to carry out the provisions of the treaty.

If you plan to bring a pet other than a dog or a cat, you should verify that it is not protected under CITES. Many species of turtles and birds are protected under CITES. If your pet is an endangered species, you will need additional permits to transport it across an international border.

Final Thoughts

Taking your dog to Mexico is pretty simple these days. As long as your dog is in good health, you don’t need any documentation. A health certificate is no longer required when traveling to Mexico from the U.S. or Canada.

If you’re flying into Mexico, your airline may require a health certificate and rabies vaccine certificate. You’ll also need to secure your pet in an appropriate airline-acceptable carrier or kennel. This makes flying to Mexico with a pet a bit more complicated.

It’s important to note that the rules for traveling with your pet to Mexico and bringing them back to your home country can change at any time and without notice. Airline rules can change as well. The rules also vary from airline to airline. Before your trip, you’ll want to check to make sure you know all of the rules and that you have all of your documents in order.

Some ports of entry are looser with the rules than others. When walking or driving into Mexico, there is a chance that nobody even mentions your dog. You might be able to walk across the border with your dog on a leash. Some ports of entry are much more strict. When flying into Mexico, customs may thoroughly inspect your dog. Customs may confiscate dog food and bedding.

To ensure your trip goes smoothly, it’s best to have all your documents in order. Make sure your pet is in good health before your travel. Also, be sure to clean your pet’s crate and toys before crossing the border.

Have you traveled to Mexico with a dog? Share your tips and experience in the comments below!

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Guide to Traveling With a Dog in Mexico in 2024

Are you thinking about traveling with a dog in Mexico? Sometimes you need to take your dog with you. Maybe it’s a service dog. Or maybe, like me, you travel full-time with your dog and take her with you everywhere you go.

Traveling with a dog can be stressful. You need to find pet-friendly accommodations. Ideally, you’d like your dog to be able to go to outdoor cafes with you. And, most of all, you need your dog to be safe.

The good news is Mexico is a great country to travel to with your dog. Many cities in Mexico are dog-friendly so your pup can go with you on many of your adventures.

Whatever your reason for traveling with your dog in Mexico, I’ve got all the info you need for a stress-free trip.

Shelby in an airport with suitcases nearby

Traveling With a Dog in Mexico

I’ve been living in Mexico with my dog, Shelby, since 2022. I’ve noticed some cities are definitely more dog-friendly than others. But in general, traveling in Mexico with my dog has been a great experience.

Is it Hard to Travel With a Dog in Mexico?

Traveling with a dog in Mexico couldn’t be much easier. There are tons of pet-friendly hotels and Airbnbs. In most cities, dogs are welcomed in restaurants, cafes, and even some stores. So you won’t have to worry about leaving your dog behind when you go explore the area.

There are definitely things you need to know when traveling with your pet in Mexico. Most people in Mexico don’t consider their dogs family like we do. Although I do believe this is changing, it’s something to keep in mind.

Overall, Mexico has realized that many visitors like to bring their pets so they do their best to be accommodating.

How to Transport a Dog to Mexico

Taking your dog from the United States to Mexico is quite straightforward. Here is what you need depending on how you enter the country.

Flying to Mexico With Your Dog

I’ve flown into Cancun and Cozumel with my dog. My experience was a little different in each, but here’s what you can expect.

Add Your Dog to Your Reservation

When you buy your ticket to Mexico, you’ll need to add your dog to your reservation. Some airlines (including United) allow you to add your dog online at the same time you book your flight. For others (including American but only sometimes) you have to call the airline directly.

Be sure to do this right away. Airlines only allow a certain number of pets per flight. Add your pet within 24 hours after booking for the most flexibility since this is the timeframe for a full refund.

Should Your Dog Fly in the Cabin or Cargo?

If your dog and its carrier weigh less than 20 pounds, he can fly with you in the cabin. You’ll need a soft-sided carrier. It will need to squish a little to get under the seat. I love this pet carrier. It’s a backpack that turns on its side to fit under the seat. It’s very handy.

Be sure to check the airline’s carrier requirements. Sometimes the maximum size is different on different airlines. Also check the weight limits.

Keep in mind that your dog carrier will count as your personal item. Also, your dog will have to stay in the carrier throughout the entire flight.

If you have a larger dog, it will have to be placed in cargo. Dogs in cargo have to have a hard-sided carrier. Be sure to check the airline’s requirements. They often require a certain amount of food and water for your dog. I haven’t put my dog in cargo but I’ve heard from people that have had good experiences.

When it’s very hot or very cold, your dog won’t be able to go in cargo. Even though the cargo area is climate controlled on the plane, your dog may be sitting on the tarmac for an extended period of time.

Shelby in her dog carrier in the airport peeking over the side.

What Airlines Allow Dogs in the Cabin?

Here is a list of airlines that allow dogs in the cabin from the U.S. to Mexico, along with a link to their pet policy:

American Airlines
United Airlines
Delta Airlines
Viva Aerobus

Note: Even though Southwest Airlines has flights to Mexico, they do NOT allow pets on international flights.

Of these, I’ve flown on American and United. I had a great experience on both airlines with my dog.

Driving to Mexico With Your Dog

Driving to Mexico with your dog is a bit easier, although there are still rules you need to follow. Be sure to check the U.S.D.A.’s page for updated requirements.

Dogs have to be in a carrier secured inside your car. If you always drive with your pup on your lap, be sure to pull over before you reach the border to secure him. The dog has to be where it won’t be a distraction or cause any other hazards.

I use a special seatbelt for my dog. It keeps her safe and in her own seat. I like this one because it can clip into the seatbelt clip or attach around the seat’s headrest . However, you should still use an enclosed carrier when crossing the border.

Driving to Mexico With Other Pets

The rules for traveling to Mexico with a cat are the same as for a dog. It’s quite easy to take your cat to Mexico, either on a plane or in a car.

For pets other than dogs and cats, this is from the Mexican Consulate’s website:

If you want to enter Mexico with an animal, other than a dog or cat, you must comply with the requirements of the Zoosanitary Import Requirements Consultation Module. Please send an email to [email protected]

Arriving in Mexico With Your Dog

I'm currently traveling in Mexico with a dog! Ths is Shelby lying on the patio of our house in Campeche.

Once you arrive in Mexico your dog (or cat) will be inspected to ensure it is healthy.

Pro tip: When flying to Mexico, there are no pet relief areas in the airport before going through customs . (At least this is true in Cancun and Cozumel). Take disposable potty pads that your dog can use in the restroom. Bring a ziplock bag with you so you can dispose of the pad without leaving the restroom smelly.

Documentation Required to Take a Dog to Mexico

Whether you arrive via airplane or drive into Mexico, your dog will have to be inspected and documents checked.

Health Certificate

Health certificates are no longer required to enter Mexico. However, some airlines still require them. I always get one before I travel. It makes the inspection process a bit more smooth.

Be sure to check your airline’s pet travel requirements. Some require the certificate to be issued within the last 30 days. For others, it must be within the last five days.

Take an extra copy. The inspector at the airport in Mexico always keeps mine.

Proof of Rabies Vaccination

Whether you have a health certificate or not, always have proof of rabies vaccination plus a couple of copies. The rabies vaccination must have been given more than 30 days prior to travel.

Proof of Deworming and Other Parasite Prevention

You’ll be asked if your dog is on a dewormer and flea/tick prevention. I give my dog Simparica Trio so I always have some with me. I can show them if they insist on proof, however, this has never been necessary.

Pro Tip: Flea and tick medications are so much cheaper in Mexico and don’t require a prescription. Stock up while you’re here.

I’ve never been asked for proof, but I’ve read that your dog must be microchipped. It should be anyway.

Make sure your microchip contact information is up to date and includes the country code of your phone number.

Pet Inspection When Arriving in Mexico

In addition to checking your documentation, your dog is supposed to be examined when you arrive at either the airport or by car. They’re looking for parasites, open sores, or any indication that your dog isn’t healthy.

Be sure not to put any blankets or toys in your dog’s carrier. They’ll throw them away. You can only have the pad that came with the carrier. Shelby almost had her brand new penguin toy confiscated. Luckily the inspector was nice and let us keep it. He did, however, throw away a reusable pee pad I had in her carrier.

If you have anything in your dog’s carrier for the trip, be sure to take it out before you go through customs and immigration.

Bringing Dog Food and Treats to Mexico

You’re only allowed to bring enough food for your dog for one day. I’ve had food confiscated. I found that one quart-sized ziploc bag is fine. That will feed my small dog for several days. However, if you have more than one bag, it’s likely to be taken.

Don’t bring any products containing beef or pork. I’ve had Shelby’s favorite (expensive) beef chewies confiscated and it broke both our hearts. I also had beef canned food taken. Chicken products seem to be fine.

Traveling Around Mexico With Your Dog

Shelby close up. She's black and fuzzy with floppy ears.

Once you’re in Mexico it’s easy to travel around the country but it depends on how you travel.

I’ve had no problem taking Shelby in taxis. They’ve always let her ride on my lap but be prepared to be asked to put your pup in a carrier instead.

Sometimes with large dogs, it will be more difficult to find a taxi. Join Facebook groups for travel in your destination and ask about private drivers that allow dogs. You shouldn’t have any problem, although be prepared to pay a bit more.

Local Buses

Most local buses will be fine with your dog as long as it’s in a carrier.

ADO is a bus network that goes all over Mexico. The buses are nice, comfortable, air-conditioned, and very inexpensive. They are a great way to get around the country.

Except if you have a dog.

ADO does not allow dogs in the buses, even in carriers. They are allowed in cargo, but the cargo area is not climate controlled and gets a lot of fumes. (This is what I’ve been told anyway. I’ve never climbed into the cargo area myself to try it out.)

Renting a Car

You can always rent a car to get your dog around in Mexico. Renting a car is easy but be aware that the fee you see online is not what you’ll pay. The rental car company will tell you that you are required to buy insurance. It’s not that they’re lying. You do need insurance. But you can get it for far less than they’re quoting.

I always use Discover Cars . They have an insurance program that has saved me hundreds of dollars.

Hiring a Driver

There are a lot of drivers in Mexico that will take you long distances. They often cost less than a taxi or a rental car. Just ask in a Facebook group for the city you’re in for recommendations.

I had a driver take me the five hours from Cancun to Campeche. It worked out great and wasn’t terribly expensive. As a bonus, you have a local captive so you can get a lot of great advice about the area!

Returning Home From Mexico With Your Dog

Returning to the United States with your dog is just as easy as going to Mexico.

Check with your airline to see if you need a health certificate. The good news is health certificates by a licensed veterinarian in Mexico are very cheap and easy to get.

If you’re driving, you’ll need proof of rabies vaccination again. Your dog may be checked over once you arrive at the U.S. border.

Shelby with her friends. Two black labs and a golden retriever lying in the shade on the grass.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations in Mexico

Every city in Mexico has a large selection of dog-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. You can easily search for pet-friendly rooms on sites like Booking.com or VRBO . But read the fine print. Some hotels charge up to $100 extra for a dog.

If you’re living in Mexico long term you can find pet-friendly accommodations in Facebook groups for less than if you go through a booking site.

What Kind of Dog Food Can I Buy in Mexico?

It gets a little tricky since you can’t take a lot of dog food to Mexico. You’re going to need to buy some more right away.

Large cities have chain pet stores such as Petco and Petsmart. In smaller towns, I’ve had trouble finding high-quality dog food locally. You can order your dog’s food from Amazon and online pet stores. If you know the address of where you’re staying you can order in advance.

The pet department of stores like Walmart are not nearly as extensive as in the United States. I’ve had trouble finding Shelby-approved chewies in Mexico.

I recently learned that dog food made in Mexico is not the same quality as the same brand in the United States. They don’t have the same standards for manufacturing here. Check with your veterinarian to ensure you’re getting the quality you expect.

Sherry and Shelby at the coast with a lighthouse in the background.

Are Dogs Allowed on the Beach in Mexico?

Whether you can take your dog to the beach in Mexico depends on each city. While I was living in Cancun I found a couple of dog-friendly beaches. Otherwise, dogs are not allowed on beaches in Cancun .

We’ve been living in Cozumel for several months and it’s very dog-friendly as far as beaches are concerned. The small beach clubs allow dogs, although the larger ones usually don’t. It’s allowed to take dogs on public beaches.

I’ve also taken Shelby to beaches in Cuidad del Carmen and Chicxulub Puerto. These were small beaches without a lot of people.

Be sure to check the rules for where you are. If you’re going to risk it anyway, go to a secluded beach. And be sure to clean up after your dog.

If your dog is going to be swimming in the ocean, consider a doggie life jacket . Tides can be surprisingly strong.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Mexico

My experience is that if there’s an outdoor patio, dogs will be allowed in the restaurant. I don’t expect to be able to take my dog into an enclosed restaurant. Actually, I hardly ever go inside restaurants. This is Mexico and the weather is too good to be inside!

Although recently on a rainy day in Cozumel, Jeanie’s let me have Shelby inside the restaurant. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

Keeping Your Dog Safe in Mexico

Keeping your dog safe in Mexico isn’t a lot different than in cities in the United States. If you have an expensive breed of dog, you might need to worry about it being stolen. This is true also in the U.S. where French bulldogs are stolen all the time and either sold or held for ransom.

Dog-napping usually falls under the category of crimes of opportunity. I haven’t heard of anyone being held at gunpoint for their dog. So keep your dog close and inside when you’re not there and you should be fine.

Street Dogs in Mexico

The thing I worry about is all the street dogs. Everywhere in Mexico there are strays and what I call “free range” dogs – dogs with homes that are allowed to wander freely.

Until I get to know the local dogs, I’m on constant alert. As soon as I see a street dog, I’ll pick Shelby up. Usually, the dog ignores us entirely.

I have had only two scary dog experiences. One dog came bursting out the closed front door of a house. It was aggressive, but not terribly so. Mostly it just scared us.

The other time we had three dogs charging toward us barking. As soon as I picked Shelby up they stopped and went away.

This is the only negative of Mexico in general. But, of course, the problem varies depending on where you are.

Cancun had a lot of free-range dogs but they ignored us. We never encountered any aggressive or scary dogs in Cancun.

Campeche had very few street dogs where I lived in Centro. Maybe it’s because Campeche is so clean. The dogs have nothing to scavenge. I’m sure it’s different when you get away from the downtown area.

Chicxulub Puerto had the worst dog problem. That’s where the aggressive dogs were. I was able to get to know the regulars and which ones were friendly. The dogs also have their regular territory so you can figure out the safest places to walk.

Cozumel has very few loose dogs downtown. We’ve encountered a few, but not too many. This is one of the reasons why Cozumel is my favorite place to live in Mexico.

Is it Safe for Dogs to Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

I’ve been told that it is safe for dogs to drink tap water in Mexico. Dogs’ stomachs can handle a lot more bacteria than we can.

However, I give Shelby bottled water. She does drink water from the shower, puddles in the street, and other water of questionable origin and she’s been fine. It’s up to you but bottled water is cheap and I figure it’s worth it.

Is it Too Hot in Mexico for a Dog?

It can get very hot in Mexico. In the summer months, you’ll need to walk your dog early in the morning and in the evening. Bring some dog booties to protect your dog’s feet from the hot sidewalk.

But as long as you’re careful, your dog will be fine in Mexico. I’ve had to pour water on Shelby when we’re out in the hot weather to cool her off. I have to keep her fur cut pretty short to help her stay cool, but after we were here for a month she got used to it.

Getting a cooling vest will help keep your dog from overheating. Shelby loves hers! Still, if you have a husky or a dog bred for cold weather, Mexico might not be the best place.

Finding a Veterinarian in Mexico

I’ve had to take Shelby to the veterinarian twice in Mexico.

Once was in Chicxulub Puerto for a corneal ulcer. I found the vet through recommendations in my Facebook ex-pat group. The full exam, two medications, and a nail trim all cost less than $40 USD. That would have been over $200 in the U.S. The vet was great and spoke English.

The second time was in Cozumel. Shelby was due for her Bordetella vaccination. That was also far cheaper than in the U.S.

The Cozumel veterinarian office also does grooming, so I had Shelby completely shaved. Bath, haircut, and nail trim all cost me $12 USD. And that included the tip.

The best thing to do is locate a veterinarian or emergency clinic before you get to your destination. Every ex-pat Facebook group will have recommendations. Just hold onto the address and phone number so if your dog gets sick you’ll be prepared.

Traveling to Mexico for Veterinary Care

Mexico has become a popular destination for pet healthcare due to its skilled veterinarians, state-of-the-art facilities, and lower costs compared to some other countries.

One of the primary reasons pet owners choose to travel to Mexico for veterinary care is the cost savings compared to their home country. Veterinary services in Mexico can be significantly more affordable than in countries like the United States or Canada, without compromising on the quality of care.

Mexico has a thriving veterinary industry, with many well-trained and experienced veterinarians who offer a comprehensive range of services.

Whether it’s routine check-ups, vaccinations, spaying or neutering, dental procedures, or complex surgeries, Mexican veterinarians are often equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide top-notch care for pets.

In addition to skilled professionals, Mexico is home to modern veterinary clinics and hospitals that are equipped with advanced technology and equipment. These facilities often meet or exceed international standards, ensuring that pets receive the highest level of care.

Dale, my old blue heeler-lab mix. He's a big dog, black, brown, and white with lots of spots.

Frequently Asked Questions: Traveling With a Dog in Mexico

Does mexico require pets to be quarantined.

No, pets are not required to be quarantined when arriving in Mexico.

Does my dog need a passport to go to Mexico?

No, a pet passport is not required. Just be sure to have a rabies vaccine certificate.

Can my dog sit on my lap during a flight?

No. Unless your dog is a trained service animal, pets are required to stay inside a pet carrier throughout the entire flight.

How do dogs go to the bathroom on the plane?

Hopefully your flight is short enough that your dog can hold it. Just in case, keep a potty pad in the carrier for accidents.

Do airports have a place for my dog to go to the bathroom?

Yes, most, if not all, airports have a designated pet relief area. You can plan ahead by reviewing a map of the airport.

Is flying stressful for dogs?

It can be, depending on the dog. Watch your dog carefully for signs of distress. A bit of lavender essential oil may help calm your dog.

Does flying hurt my dog’s ears?

It’s possible for your dog to feel some pressure. Luckily, dogs’ ears equalize the pressure naturally so any discomfort should be short-lived.

Can I take my cat to Mexico and back?

Yes, you can take your cat to Mexico and back again. The process is essentially the same as traveling with a dog.

Can I take my dog to Mexico by car?

Yes, you can take your dog to Mexico by car.

Is it hard to travel with a dog in Mexico?

No, it’s not hard at all to travel in Mexico with a dog. Mexico is dog-friendly and dogs are allowed in many places.

What documents do I need to travel with my dog to Mexico ?

You need to prove your dog is vaccinated against rabies to travel to Mexico. It’s also a good idea to have a health certificate and documentation of other vaccinations.

Do Mexican airlines allow dogs?

Yes, most Mexican airlines allow dogs. Check the airline’s website for their specific requirements. You’ll likely need a health certificate issued within a few days of your flight.

Is Mexico pet-friendly?

Yes, Mexico is a pet-friendly country overall. Many cities are becoming more and more accommodating to travelers with dogs.

What is the SENASICA dog inspection?

SENASICA is Mexico’s National Service of Health, Food Safety, and Food Quality. SENASICA is responsible for inspecting all pets entering Mexico. These inspections occur at international airports and border crossing points.

Does Mexico have service dog laws?

Yes, Mexico has laws for service dogs. Basically having a service dog in Mexico is very similar to in the United States. Note that emotional support animals are not recognized in Mexico.

Do I need a dog health certificate for Mexico?

No, Mexico does not require a dog health certificate. However, your airline might require one if you’re flying to Mexico with a dog.

Sherry and Shelby on a beach show that traveling with a dog in Mexico is a great idea!

Wrap-Up: Traveling With a Dog In Mexico

I can’t imagine traveling without my dog. So while there are some challenges associated with traveling with a dog in Mexico, it’s 100% worth it for me.

Mexico is a dog-friendly country in general, and becoming even more so. As long as you know what to expect and are prepared, you and your pup can have a wonderful time in Mexico.

Before you head out, download this free travel checklist for the dog .

Dog-Friendly Cities in Mexico
Cancun or Cozumel: Which is Better for Your Vacation?
7-Day Cancun Itinerary: Best Things to See and Do
Day Trip to Cozumel From Playa del Carmen
Things to Do in Campeche, Mexico
Can I Be a Digital Nomad With a Dog?
Where to Live in Mexico: The Ultimate Digital Nomad’s Guide
Living in Cozumel, Mexico: Ultimate Digital Nomad Guide
Navigating the World of Digital Nomad Housing
Most Dog-Friendly Cities in the World

Pro Tips for Your Mexico Trips

Do i need travel insurance.

YES . No matter when you visit Mexico, don’t forget to buy travel insurance. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. If you need it once it will pay for itself many times over. I highly recommend Safety Wing . They have a proven track record for customer satisfaction and a variety of coverage levels.

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

YES. Renting a car in Mexico is not only safe, but it’s a great way to explore. Discover Cars is hands down the best rental car company . They check international and local companies to get you the best rates.

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free service in Mexico, the least expensive option is to buy a Telcel SIM card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. I have one and it’s been a lifesaver.

You can also get an eSIM. Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries/regions, including Mexico.

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, check out Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper with more options.

What do I pack for Mexico?

My Mexico packing list has all the info you need on packing for your trip to Mexico.

What’s the best site for great deals on flights to Mexico?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Probably Not . U.S., Canadian, and most European passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico. To verify if you’ll need a Mexico travel visa check the Mexican Consulate’s website. For assistance with all your worldwide visa questions, check out iVisa .

Sherry Arkfeld is a digital nomad, travel blogger, and copywriter living her dream of being able to work from anywhere in the world while exploring new places with her little dog, Shelby. Sherry is passionate about sharing her experiences to help other travelers and digital nomads. Sherry and Shelby are currently traveling slowly around Mexico with plans to eventually go (almost) everywhere.

Cross Border Coverage

Mexican Auto Insurance for American and Canadian Plated Cars, RV's, ATV's, Campers, Watercraft and more

Traveling in Mexico with a Dog

If you’re wondering – Can I take my dog to Mexico by car? The answer is YES!

Mexico is dog friendly for many travelers, especially those who choose driving over flying. While you can fly into the country, it does make things more difficult. Rental car companies may not allow your dog and your options for lodging become more limited as well.

Here’s what you’ll need and what to expect when driving in Mexico with your dog.

Border Crossing Requirements for Your Dog

I’ve crossed the border into Mexico and back into the US multiple times without any questions or special inspections for my dog. I still carry paperwork for you just in case proof is required to cross in either direction. You will want shot records, including proof of an up-to-date rabies shot. You can get a fresh health certificate from your vet using the official USDA form for pet travel. This allows you to travel with confidence. The USDA form is especially important for air travel.

Limitations of a Dog in Mexico

There are a few limiting factors with your pet although they are nominal for most pet owners. Travel to restricted areas like archaeologically sensitive areas will become more difficult and impossible without a dog sitter in many cases. It’s also more difficult to find lodging, especially when booking online. I did have surprising success however by simply stopping at local motels and asking for permission. Most only will approve a small dog but with some persuading, I found plenty to take my 50-pound girl. Finding rental cars may be an issue and it’s ideal to drive your own vehicle across the border.

Finding Places to Stop

The areas you travel will dictate how you make pit stops with your dog. My dog needs to stretch and walk a few times each day. Urban areas are more difficult to manage and leashes are mandatory. Drivers will rarely stop for a loose dog in most of Latin America. In Baja and rural areas, you can walk beaches and small towns easily however. We have never really had issues finding a country road or town square to explore. Just be aware of your surroundings and watch out for motorized traffic and street dogs.

Dealing with Street Dogs

Many towns in Mexico have strays and street dogs. Some of these dogs do have homes but they patrol off-leash and often take ownership of a small area in a town. There are also plenty of dogs behind fences that will bark and make noise as you walk around.

I walk my dog off leash in rural towns and open areas where road traffic is not an issue. Loose dogs are often visible from a distance and I will throw a leash on my dog if they feel unsafe. This is very rare however and my dog initiates playful behavior more often than not. The first few seconds of meeting a group of dogs is sometimes stressful but we have never had a fight or problem.

You need to really know your dog and make judgement calls based on the situation.

Temperature Control is Everything

Temperature and comfort are concerns for most dog owners and traveling in Mexico with a dog requires special attention to the environment. I remember cruising comfortably through the mountains of central Mexico while enjoying the cool climates. A few hours later we were on the gulf coast sweating in a van without air conditioning.

I now drive with air conditioning and plan stops in hot climates at lodging with air conditioning. We explore the outdoors in the early morning and late evening in hot climates and retreat to cooler indoor zones during the day. I always carry freshwater for my dog as well.

Safety Concerns

Traveling in Mexico with a dog is generally safe, especially when driving the cuotas or toll roads and spending time in areas without safety concerns. This applies to the owner more than the dog however. In terms of dog safety, be cautious about walking around because trash is often available to dogs.

Locals often barbecue and have picnics and it’s not uncommon to discard cooked bones in the bushes. They often feed street dogs and pets cooked chicken and pork bones and might kindly try doing the same with your dog. Just don’t let your dog eat the bones, say thank you and move along. It’s generally a nice gesture but most American dogs are not accustomed to eating bones that may splinter.

While there are a few precautions, you can take your dog to Mexico by car and have a great time. Enjoy teh trip!

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FLYING TO MEXICO CITY WITH DOGS – Our Step-by-Step Experience

It has been a while since we last flew with our dogs into Mexico City Benito Juárez International Airport because we normally drive everywhere.

This article will explain what to expect when flying with a dog to Mexico City, the SENASICA OISA office and the importation process.

We flew directly from LAX to MEX on Aeroméxico with our two dogs, Olivia and Sofia.

Here is our step-by-step experience.

Jump Ahead To:

BOOKING AIRLINE TICKETS WHEN TRAVELING WITH PETS

It is noteworthy to point out that only a certain number of dogs are allowed on each Aeroméxico flight.

Therefore, it is important to contact the airline directly. Either to call and book tickets directly. Or book online and immediately call with your reservation number to add your dog or cat to your ticket.

Of course, there is an additional charge each way.

The reservation agent did ask me a question that was never asked before.

She asked me to measure each dog! Measure from the nose to tail.

When I asked why, she replied that this information was for the check-in agent.

Hum… it will be interesting to see if the check-in agent actually uses this information.

Selecting seats when flying with a dog

The flight we took on Aeroméxico was a Dreamliner BOEING DREAMLINE 787-8 JET.

I pre-selected seats in the middle row – aisle seats, D and F.

The reason I selected aisle seats is because the seat in front of an aisle seat does not have entertainment equipment under the seat.

Seats with the equipment under them blocks the amount of space one can use to put items under it, such as a dog carrier.

Window and middle seats have the entertainment equipment under them and the airline approved dog carriers do not fit.

CHECK-IN PROCESS FOR AEROMÉXICO AT LAX

We arrived 3 hours before the departure time at the Aeroméxico / Delta Airlines check-in counter.

When we got in line, we were told to put the dogs into their carrier. They could not be on a leash waiting by our sides.

Once we got to the check-in counter the agent asked for the dog’s paperwork. Aeroméxico requires a health certificate and a current rabies certificate.

Aeroméxico only allows a 5-day window for getting a health certificate. I got these health certificates the day before we flew down to Mexico City.

The agent did not ask to see the dogs nor did he weigh the dogs. However, the check-in agent next to us did ask a lady to put her dog and carrier on the scale. The dog was half way out of the carrier and looked bigger than our dogs.

PET labels were attached to each dog carrier.

All in all, the check-in process with dogs went smoothly.

Once we left the ticket counter, we took the dogs out of their carriers and went for a walk outside.

LAX has limited grass. There are a few plants and bushes just outside of the parking garages on the ground floor.

There are relief stations inside the LAX terminals. They smell of urine. If you go, wear a mask to block the strong order.

The plastic grass hurt our dog’s paws and they refused to walk on it.

We keep extra pee-pads inside the carriers, under the thin padding.

At the relief station we used one and put it down (away from the plastic grass) and Sofia was happy to use that.

TAKING DOGS THROUGH THE TSA STATION AT LAX

We had no issues going through the security check point with our dogs.

We took each dog out of their carrier before getting to the x-ray machine.

We walked the dogs through the metal detectors with us. The harness we used on each dog was thin with very little metal. No beeps. =8-)

The dogs went back into their carriers because we had to take a internal shuttle bus to our gate at another terminal.

AEROMÉXICO GATE CHECK-IN PROCESS AT LAX

Once we got to the gate, we took the dogs out of their carriers and walked them around a bit.

The Aeroméxico gate agent asked us to please come to the counter. She wanted to change our seats because a dog has to be by a window.

Apparently, there was only one window seat available which she assigned to me and then sat my husband next to me in the aisle seat. No one in the middle.

As I mentioned before, there is no room for a dog carrier to fit under the window seat in front.

There was enough room under the aisle seat for my husband to slide Sofia’s dog carrier under the seat.

Since no one was in the middle seat I was able to turn Olivia’s dog carrier sideways and take up two spaces to make it fit.

ARRIVING AT THE MEXICO CITY AIRPORT WITH DOGS

It is an especially L O N G walk while carrying dogs from the airplane to the Customs and Immigration area at the Mexico City airport.

The airport has been remodeled and looks great! There are clear signs indicating where to go.

Mexico has been phasing out the paper FMM card and replaced it with a stamp in your passport.

When it was our turn to see the immigration officer, she asked us a few questions about where and how long we were staying in Mexico City. No questions about the dogs.

Once our passports were stamped, we headed out of that area.

We walked down a hallway (which had a small shop) to the baggage claim area. No one said anything about taking the dogs to the SENASICA OISA office.

As soon as you emerge from the hallway, the SENASICA OISA office is to the left.

You cannot miss it. There are people lined up with their dogs.

Before we went to the OISA office, we headed over to the baggage carousel to pickup our luggage.

We put the two dogs on top of the luggage and wheeled over to the OISA office.

A few things to note…

There is a sign saying to leave your pet in the carrier.

I also noticed that the OISA officer did not ask to see the pets nor conduct a physical inspection.

Once we got to the counter, they had us fill out a short form.

The form wanted our names, passport number, flight number and where we were staying in Mexico City.

This form asked nothing about the dogs.

We had to complete one form per dog.

Once we handed in the forms, he asked for the dog’s paperwork.

Although the country of Mexico does not require a health certificate for dogs traveling from the U.S. or Canada, Aeroméxico does. So, I handed over the health certificates and rabies certificates.

It took about 15 minutes for him to enter the data into the system and hand us the official Certificado Zoosanitorio Para Importación.

He gave us two copies for each dog. One copy for us to keep and one copy to hand to an official on our way out.

Again, no physical inspection.

The only information on the certificate that pertained to the dog was the description. What breed, how old and the name of the dog.

It did not have any information about whether or not she had a rabies shot, was free of parasites, or other vaccines she has had.

Next, we got in line to exit the baggage claim area. We took the dogs out of their carriers at this point.

The luggage had to be x-rayed before leaving the baggage claim area. This included the dog carriers.

GETTING A TAXI AT THE AIRPORT

After the luggage was x-rayed, we headed towards the exit.

There are large frosted glass doors which open up into an area where all the taxi and car rental companies are. There are also currency exchange places. This is where anyone who is meeting you will pick you up as well.

We like to use CASADEY Taxi company. It is the first booth you see once entering this area.

The CASADEY clerk will ask for the address of where you are going and then tell you how much it will cost. You pre-pay here. They accept credit cards.

After you pay, they give you a voucher and then an escort you to the spot for CASADEY taxi service.

Green space for dogs at CDMX airport

There is a great little green space for dogs right next to the CASADEY taxi stand. Our dogs really needed to use this green space before getting into the taxi.

Turns out we used this same green space when we were flying back out. Very handy!

FLYING OUT OF MEXICO CITY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WITH A DOG

When got in line to check-in we were directed to the Special Services counter, not the regular counter.

It actually turned out for the better because there were no other people in line.

The agent asked for the dog’s rabies certificate and health certificate.

I did not get another health certificate while in Mexico City because we were only there 5 days.

Note: at the time of this writing, going into Mexico the health certificate is good for 15 days from the date the veterinarian signed it. According to Aeroméxico’s rules.

She accepted the health certificate as it was dated.

She did ask to weigh each dog in their carrier.

She also moved our seats because of their rule that dogs must be by a window. This time we each had a window seat in different rows.

The entire check-in process only took 20 minutes.

We had 3 hours before our airplane started the boarding process.

We did not want to leave the dogs in their carriers and wanted to take them outside, back to that green space we used upon arriving.

Another noteworthy comment … the airlines will not tell you the gate number for your flight. You have to keep checking the flight board. Fortunately, the Aeroméxico app did tell us the gate number about 2 hours before departure.

HOW TO GET DOWNSTAIRS AND TO A GREEN SPACE FOR THE DOGS

There is one escalator down to the ground floor in Terminal 2.

Look for the 7-Eleven shop. Across from that is a large column that says “L 1”. The escalator is right in front of that.

The escalator will take you down to the ground level where the taxi, rental car and currency exchange offices are located. It should look familiar.

Walk to the farthest end of this area and exited out the doors on the left. The green space is located just outside next to the CASADEY taxi stand.

GOING THROUGH SECURITY AT MEXICO CITY AIRPORT WITH DOGS

The dogs were already out of their carriers from having been outside earlier.

We walked the dogs through the metal detectors.

The security agent did a brief physical inspection of each dog. They were looking for weapons, not to see if they were healthy.

WAITING AT THE GATE AND BOARDING THE AIRPLANE

While waiting at the gate we opened up the carriers so they could lie down or walk around us with their leash on.

We had a long time to wait until our flight departed and I did not want to keep them in the carriers longer than absolutely necessary.

Shocking boarding procedure for dogs

A very awful boarding procedure occurred before we were allowed on the airplane with our dogs.

The gate agent Zip-tied each of their carriers closed!

This was very upsetting to me. What if there was an emergency and we needed to get the dogs out of the carriers?

What were we supposed to do once we landed?

We don’t carry scissors in our carry-on, let along our luggage. Were we expected to keep our dogs locked-up until we finally reach home or our hotel?

This was very cruel in my opinion.

A follow passenger told me about this hack to break the zip-ties .

Simply put writing pen through the circle holding the zippers closed and twist, twist, twist until the zip-ties break.

Voila it worked! =8-)

This hack also proved to be helpful once we collected our luggage.

Turns out Aeroméxico zip-tied everyone’s luggage closed. So even if you carried some scissors in your luggage, you cannot open it to get them out.

We ended up showing a few other passengers this hack to break the zip-ties. They were very grateful.

MY KEY TAKE AWAYS

What I learned through this process of flying to Mexico City with dogs is this…

The OISA office does not perform a physical inspection of your dog even though all the documentation says there will be an inspection.

The OISA office never asked about fleas/mites/tick prevention. Never looked inside the carrier or at the dog.

If I did not have a health certificate how would the OISA officer get the information required to put into their system and Zoosanitario certificate?

For example – the name of the dog and the breed? The rabies certificate did not have this information. The OISA form we were asked to complete never asked anything about the dogs. Only the health certificate had this information.

Aeroméxico in Mexico City is strict about preventing anyone from opening a suitcase or a dog carrier. The dogs are trapped inside until you can break the zip-tie.

I hope you found this article helpful. Please let me know in the comments if you have questions or additional remarks.

Viajes seguros mi amigos!

Pet Travel Mexico

Wondering About Pet Travel Mexico? & What The Requirements Are?

If you are a pet owner, your world is about to get a whole lot bigger. You can now take your pet with you on vacation! However, there are some things to know before you go.

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Pets need food, water and their medications when they travel. You will also need to make sure they have a health certificate and that they are up-to-date on their vaccines.

Mexico is a great place to take your pet! There are a lot of dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and attractions in Mexico . So if you want to take your pet on vacation with you, this article will give you all the information that you need to plan a safe and enjoyable trip.

The following list will cover what you need to know about traveling with pets to Mexico:

- What kind of documents do I need?

- Which airlines allow pets?

- What paperwork do I need for my pet at the border?

- Which vaccines does my pet need?

- Are there any other things that I should know about pet travel Mexico?

- What are the most popular destinations for dog owners visiting Mexico ?

- What's the best pet travel carrier?

Mexico Pet Travel Requirements Documents You Will Need To Travel

All animals entering Mexico require a health certificate issued by the country of origin and have an international certificate of vaccination against rabies, or proof of vaccination if the vaccination was carried out less than 1 year prior to entry into Mexico.

Valid health certificate

Either APHIS Form 7001 (pdf) Vet Health Certificate
OR a certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian and printed on letterhead (handwritten documents are not accepted) in English and Spanish with the vet's professional license number or a photocopy of the license, and the vet's signature. Take the original and a simple copy.

Valid rabies vaccination certificate

Proof of rabies vaccine administered at least 15 days before the pet's arrival in Mexico. The vaccination certificate should state when the vaccine was administered and how long it is valid, as well as the product name and lot number.

Airline And Aircraft Pet Policies For Travel:

Airlines have different pet policies, and it is important to check that you are adhering to the guidelines of the airlines you are flying with. There are a variety of animals that can be brought on board, but it is important to know what type of animal you have so that you can take the appropriate measures when bringing them through security.

As you walk through the airport, keep in mind that most airports have large animal-holding areas. You may be required to clean up after your pet before coming on board.

Dogs: You must provide a health certificate from your vet, issued within 20 days of your flight, that states the dog's vaccination and medical history. Dogs may only fly in the cargo compartment of the plane. There is limited seating available for dogs (no more than 2 per row) and they must be carried on the plane.

You must have a carrier or cage that can fit in the overhead bin on board your flight and is able to withstand air pressure changes during takeoff and landing. A pet carrier that is sturdy enough for your pet must be checked as baggage.

The carrier must be strong enough to hold your pet without causing injury or disrupting its normal behavior. You can only carry a small number of animals in the cabin with you per flight, as follows: When traveling with one pet* it's allowed to fly in the cabin with you at no charge. Two pets are allowed to travel in the same carrier if they are not aggressive towards each other and there is space available.

Cats; are allowed to travel in the cabin with you at no charge.

Cats, Small Pets and Large Pets can fly in a kennel or carrier, or as an express service at $200 each.

A third option is "family" memberships which allow up to three members of the same family to travel together. The cost for family memberships is $300 each. Pets must be 25 pounds or less, and pets traveling in a kennel or carrier must not exceed 22 x 17 x 16 inches. Pets that are too large for the system will have to be transported as baggage at $100 each.

Birds: If your flight will be more than five hours, you'll need to bring your bird in a cage that is no larger than 13 x 13 x 13 inches and caged separately from other animals. Carry-on bags must not exceed 7.5 linear inches (length + width + depth) and must fit within an overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

If there are items that exceed these dimensions, they will be classified as baggage and will cost $100 each way

Fish: Yes, as long as they are not in liquid or gaseous form and do not make excessive noise or require an expensive container.

Check with your airline for rules on bringing fish. Fish cannot travel in people's checked luggage but may travel with you onboard the plane if they can't be boxed.

Mexico is a perfect destination for your next family vacation with your pets. There are many reasons why this is true but here are the top three:

- Mexico has a variety of climate zones, which means you can travel to different destinations depending on what you want to do and see.

- Mexico is an affordable destination, with prices that are comparable to those in the U.S.

- Mexico has so much culture, history, and beauty that it will be hard to go home.

List of Pet-Friendly Canadian & U.S.A Airline Carriers

Air Canada: Canadian pet friendly airline - pet policy
American Airlines: Primarily used for West Coast travel - pet policy
Alaska Airlines: Allows pets in checked baggage- pet policy
Allegiant Air: Stream lined pet check-in - pet policy
Delta Airlines: Good Policy for small pets - pet policy
Frontier Airlines: Allows pets - pet policy
JetBlue: Most pet amenities - pet policy
Spirit Airlines: Good Overall - pet policy
Southwest Airlines: Best for cheap pet fees - pet policy
United Airlines: Primarily for East Coast flights - pet policy

How to Avoid These Common Pet Traveling Mistakes When Planning Your Trip

If you are planning a trip with your pet, there are some mistakes that you want to avoid. This article will help you know the common mistakes and how to not be a jerk when traveling with your pet.

Mistake 1: Not researching the destination country's animal regulations

Mistake 2: Not understanding the airline's animal regulations

Mistake 3: Not understanding the hotel's pet policy

Mexico Airline Rules for Bringing Pets and What You Need To Know Before You Fly

Mexico is one of the most popular destinations for tourists and people who want to explore the country. But what if you are a pet owner?

Yes, it can be difficult to travel with a pet. But don't worry, there are certain rules that Mexico Airline offers for passengers who want to bring their pets with them.

The first thing you need to know before flying with your pet is that you need to have their vaccination certificate or an international passport. You also need to know that the airline will not allow any animal in the cabin or cargo hold if it has a respiratory infection, fever or diarrhea. The airline that you are flying with may have health requirements.

You will have to check ahead of time the airline policies regarding animals. Make sure that your pet is healthy and can fly safely on the airplane before taking them on your flight. Most people choose to take their pet on a direct flight, but some do choose to fly with an animal cargo carrier or by train instead of taking them as carry-on luggage.

If you are going to transport your pet by air, make sure to take them on a direct flight so that your pet will have the most comfort.

Transporting Pets by Car

Some people choose to drive cross-country with their pets instead of flying and it is just as safe to do so as long as you follow all the necessary safety measures, like making sure your pet doesn’t escape or end up in the car’s wheel well during transport. Make sure to check with state animal transport laws in regard to transporting animals.

What You Should Pack For Your Pet Traveling Trip

When you are traveling pets abroad here are a few things that you should always pack when you are traveling with your pet.

The first thing that is important to pack is a carrier. This can be anything from a soft-sided carrier to an airline approved hard-sided carrier. It is important to make sure that the carrier has enough room for your pet and their accessories. You also need to make sure that it will not get punctured or ripped by sharp objects in your bag.

Another thing that you should bring with you when traveling with pets is food and water bowls, food, treats, medications, and toys for the duration of the trip. Make sure to also include any medicines or dietary supplements in this list as well as they may need these while they are away from home just like humans do!

A final thing that you will want to include in your luggage is any items that are a priority for the cats or dogs. For example, if one of the animals has a kidney condition, then you will want to bring any pain medications and other medications necessary.

Some people also recommend taking their favorite blanket or pillow with them, so they don’t feel too lonely while they are away from home.

If your family is going on a trip to Mexico and it’s going to be the first time for your pet, here are some suggestions for making the Mexico trip less scary.

Buy your pet a small, toy to keep in their mouth while they are traveling so, they can chew it and feel safe.

Bring a few cans of food and some bowls with lids for your pet to take their meals in (so the food doesn’t go flying everywhere).

Put some toys stuffed with treats in the bottom of your suitcase (or somewhere on board) to keep them from getting bored during the trip.

At the airport, buy a large sized bag of kibble from a pet store and stuff some in there for your pet to eat on the way home. It's much cheaper than food on board and you will have your own fresh food to snack on if you don't have time for meals or just feel like not eating at all (something I've found myself doing many times).

Put a few bags of kibble in your checked baggage if possible, so they can eat when you're not around. It's a good idea to have these on board with your other food supplies too, as sometimes it can take up to an hour for them to be delivered so it's better if they are already in hand.

Try and get your dogs used to the plane by taking them on walks outside the terminal before you fly, and inside if possible. This will help build trust between you both and make boarding much more easier (even though most dogs don't like flying).

Different Places To Visit With Your Pet In Mexico

Mexico is a beautiful country with many places to visit. The best places for pets are not always the most popular tourist destinations but they are worth the extra effort.

The first place on our list is the Tulum National Park. This park has many different attractions and one of them is a pet friendly beach. It also has freshwater pools that are perfect for dogs to swim in.

The second place on our list is Xcaret Park, a theme park that offers many different activities like snorkeling and swimming with dolphins, as well as ziplining, kayaking and an animal sanctuary.

The third place on our list is Riviera Maya, which offers some of the best beaches in Mexico where pets can swim in the crystal blue waters or walk along the white sands of this coastal area.

The fourth place on our list is Palenque National Park which has a jungle filled with exotic animals and plants that will delight any animal lover who visits it .

The fifth place on our list is the Uxmal Ruins and Museum which was built by the Maya in Central America around 600 A.D.

Mexico is a country with a lot of natural beauty and exciting destinations. There are many places to visit in Mexico, but we have chosen some of the best ones for you and your family.

Why Mexico for Pet Travel?

Mexico is one of the best countries to take your pet on vacation because it has a lot of dog-friendly beaches, hotels and restaurants. It is also a country where you can find pet-friendly accommodations in almost every city.

Planning Ahead for Pet Travel in Mexico - What You Need to Know in Advance

The first thing to consider is the type of pet you plan to bring with you. There are a variety of regulations that apply to different types of pets.

There are many factors that will determine the requirements for your pet's travel, including age, size, country of origin and destination.

The regulations for animal importation in Mexico are as follows:

- Dogs and cats must have a rabies certificate signed by a veterinarian;

- The certificate must be valid for at least 30 days after arrival in Mexico;

- The animal must be at least 12 weeks old;

- The animal must be accompanied by an anti-rabies vaccination certificate signed by a veterinarian;

- If the animal has been vaccinated against rabies more than once, only the latest vaccination is required.

What to Pack When Flying with Pets?

Here is a list of things you should pack when flying with your pet. This list will help to make the journey for both you and your pet as comfortable as possible.

-A carrier bag for your pet.

-A leash/harness to keep your pet safe on the plane and in the airport.

-A bed, blanket, or comfy mat for your pet to sleep in during the flight.

-Food and water bowls for food and water during the flight.

-A toy or two to keep them entertained on their journey!

-A photo of your pet for their airport ID

-An airline approved crate/carryon case that can be purchased at checkin or a friend's house for a fee

-A signed affidavit from your vet about the current care of your pet on the day of travel.

Some Things You Should Know before Bringing your Dog on a Plane

There are many things you should know before flying with your pet. You should take into account the size of the dog, their temperament, and whether they will be traveling as cargo or in the cabin with you.

These guidelines are airline dependent. Check airline pet policy above.

Dogs that are too big to fit in a carrier under the seat must travel as cargo. They must be at least 8 weeks old, weigh less than 100 pounds and not exceed 40 inches in height. Dogs that are too small to fit in a carrier under the seat can fly with you in the cabin as long as they stay on your lap or under your seat.

You should also make sure that your dog is up-to-date on all required shots and has a health certificate from a veterinarian (within 10 days of flying). If you are traveling internationally, then you need to get an international health certificate from a veterinarian (within 10 days of flying). for each country you are traveling to.

If your dog is traveling in the cargo hold, then you should make sure your dog is not too big for the size of their crate. If they are too big, then they will need 2 crates: a smaller one for them to sleep in and one larger one for them to walk around in. You can find more information about what size crate your pet needs on our blog post about flying with pets in the cabin versus cargo hold here.

Making Sure Your Dog is Healthy Enough for the Trip & Beyond - The Necessities and Considerations

A dog's health is important for a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips on how to make sure your dog is healthy enough for the trip and beyond.

- Make sure your dog has had all their vaccinations before traveling.

- Take your dog to see a vet before traveling to ensure they can handle the altitude, heat, and other conditions of their destination.

- Plan ahead by packing your pup's food, water dish, favorite toy, and a leash when you go on vacation.

What You Should Know Before You Travel To Mexico With Your Pet

Before you go, make sure that you have all the necessary documents for your pet. You will need to provide a valid rabies vaccination certificate, registration papers from your country of origin and proof of sterilization. Pets are not allowed in some Mexican hotels and restaurants. Make sure to check with the hotel before booking if they allow pets or not.

What to Pack for Your Pet On Your Trip

A pet is a member of the family, and their needs should be considered when packing for a trip. It's important to pack everything your pet needs in order to have a safe and enjoyable trip.

The following are some items that you should consider bringing with you on your next trip:

- Food and water dishes

- A comfortable bed

- A leash or harness

- A collar with ID tags

- A crate/ kennel/ or travel bag

How to Prepare Your Pet For Travel To Mexico

Many people are considering taking their pets with them on vacation. But what do you need to know before traveling with your pet?

Preparing your pet for travel is not as difficult as it may seem. Here are some things to consider when preparing your pet for a long flight in Mexico:

- Research and plan ahead of time. Make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations, paperwork, and documents prepared in advance.

- Make sure your pet's rabies shots are up-to-date, including a titer test if they were vaccinated more than one year ago.

- Bring food and water for your pet to eat and drink during the flight or while you're at the airport waiting to board.

- Bring a carrier or crate that will fit under the seat in front of you on the plane so that there is room for both of you. - If possible, take a direct flight rather than connecting flights which can be stressful on pets and people alike .

- When you board the plane, make sure your pet is harnessed and on a leash.

Expert Advice on the Best Flying Methods & Airports To Use For Pets

Pets are a member of the family, so it is important to know how to fly with them. There are a few different ways to fly with your pet and each one has its own benefits.

First, you can choose to go with a cargo company. This is the most direct way but it is also the most expensive. You'll need to book your flight well in advance and there will be an additional fee for your pet's weight (which can range from $75-$150).

Second, you can use a private carrier like Pet Air or Jet Pets. These companies offer more flexibility but they also come at a higher cost ($250-300).

Third, you can fly on an airline that has pet-friendly flights. This option is cheaper than using cargo or private carriers but it does come with some limitations (you may need to check your pet in at the airport and there may be additional fees for overweight pets).

Fourth, you could go the cargo route but this costs more. If you want to take your pet on a trip by air, you may have to pay extra depending on the airline carrier type and what your pet is rated as. To be safe, always check with the airline before booking a flight so you know if there are any additional fees for pets and what your options are in terms of getting your pet onto an airplane.

How To Get Around In Mexico With Pets

If you are travelling to Mexico with pets, there are a few things that you need to know.

Mexico is a beautiful country with an abundance of natural resources and culture, but it also has its own set of challenges. One of these challenges is the fact that pets are not allowed in all public spaces, and they are not allowed to travel on all forms of public transportation. This means that if you want to explore Mexico with your pet, there are a few things that you need to do.

In this article, we will discuss what is required for travelling with pets in Mexico.

First step is to arrange a trip that is pet friendly. Talk to a travel agent or find a pet friendly travel packages to Mexico

Talk to your hotel, they will let you know if they have any pet rules and places you can take your pets

Find a local pet services (pet barber, veterinarian, dog walkers, etc etc) about pet friendly areas in the place you plan to visit in Mexico

Local pet shelters can also advise on good pet friendly areas in Mexico

Using a Pet Travel Service For Your Trip To Mexico

If you are planning a trip to Mexico with your pet, it is important to plan ahead of time. You will need to fly your pet with you if the airline allows it. If you are not, then you will need to find a pet travel service that can help you get your pet across the border into Mexico.

A pet travel service is a company that specializes in taking care of your pet and facilitates the process of getting your pet to and from the airport. They can also provide you with a list of vets in the area, which will be useful if your pet needs medical attention during their stay.

If you are travelling with pets, then it is important to find out whether or not they allow pets on board. Some airlines have restrictions on how many animals they allow on board at any given time, so it is best to check before booking a ticket. A pet travel service will look after all these details for you.

Other details a pet travel service will look after is pet passports, required shots and vaccines for Mexico and look after any required documents.

Pet travel services can arrange alternate transport of your pet in case your airline or mode of travel does not allow pets.

As well most pet travel service websites have a wealth of information and tips to help make your pet and you travels easier and less stressful.

Top Rated Pet Carriers For Travel To Mexico

The first thing you need to do is figure out the best pet carrier for your pet. There are a lot of options available, but there are some key features that you should consider when shopping for your pet carrier.

If you're looking for something that is lightweight and easy to carry, then a soft-sided carrier might be a good option. These carriers are made of fabric and they can be folded up when not in use. They are also less expensive than hard-sided carriers, which makes them a good option if you plan on traveling with your pet often.

A hard-sided carrier is another option if you want something more durable and travel friendly. These carriers have metal frames that provide more security than soft-sided carriers, but they can be heavier and bulkier to carry around with you on your travels.

When choosing the best pet carrier for travel to Mexico, make sure it has enough ventilation so that your animal doesn't overheat on the trip. In the event of an emergency, you can use the carrier as a temporary shelter.

In choosing the best pet carrier for travel to Mexico, be sure to consider its size because some carriers may not accommodate larger pets. The best pet carrier for travel to Mexico is a good size and can accommodate the size of your pets.

Pet carriers with easy to use latches, like the Travel Store Deluxe Dog Carrier or the Petmate Empire Dog and Cat Carrier, would be a good choice.

Pet Travel To Mexico Frequently Asked Questions

How to Travel with Your Pets to Mexico To US? Bringing your pet to Mexico can be difficult. Find out what you need to do in order to travel safely with your pets.

Can you travel to Mexico with a pet? Yes, you can travel to Mexico with an approved pet that has a valid health certificate signed by a qualified veterinarian and a current rabies shot.

What are pet travel to Mexico requirements? A valid AYUH15 For, or a valid health certificate signed by a qualified veterinarian and current rabies shot.

What are the most popular pet travel destinations in Mexico? Mexico is a very pet friendly country, but you must check with your airlines and hotel (place of stay) to see if they accept pets on their premises and beach.

Can I bring my pet to Mexico? Yes, pets are allowed to come to Mexico if they have the proper documentation.

What is the process of bringing my pet to Mexico? You can bring the pet with you on a pet friendly airline with the proper documentation, or you can have a pet services company arrange the shipment of your pet to Mexico to meet you at your destination.

How much does it cost to bring your pet to Mexico? The government of Mexico does not have a charge to bring a pet but check with your hotel and airline to see if there are any extra fees to have your pet stay with you.

What are the requirements for bringing a pet to Mexico? The requirements to bring a pet to Mexico is a valid APHIS Form 7001 form, or a valid health certificate signed by a qualified veterinarian and current rabies shot.

Do I need to see a Mexican consulate pet travel? No, you do not need to see a Mexican consulate to bring your pet to Mexico.

What are some of the challenges of traveling with pets? Some of the challenges of traveling with a pet are extra documentation, costs and restrictions of where and you can and cannot go.

How can I determine if my destination country will let me bring my pet? Research, go to the country you are going to visit and find their policy on the importation of pets.

What are some tips for traveling with pets? Best tips for traveling with a pet in Mexico is always use an approved pet carrier or crate that is comfortable for your pet, bring plenty of food and water and any medications you think you might need.

Does my pet need a passport for travel in Mexico? No, you pet does not need a passport to travel to Mexico.

What are the requirements for bringing pets into Mexico? The requirements to bring your pets to Mexico is to be sure all pets have a valid APHIS Form 7001 form, or a valid health certificate signed by a qualified veterinarian and have current rabies shot.

What animals are prohibited from entering Mexico? Endangered species, alive predator fish and some agricultural livestock like pigs and chickens.

What are the best ways to bring my pet to Mexico? Some of the best ways to bring your pets to Mexico is to bring the pet with you on the airline or car or have a pet services company service make the arrangements to have your pet delivered to your destination.

What is the best way to pet travel from Mexico to Canada? Best way to travel with pet from Mexico to Canada is to use Air Canada and bring your pet with you or arrange a pet service company to arrange for the delivery of your pet to your destination.

Can you pet travel from UK to Mexico? Yes, a pet can travel from the UK to Mexico .

What are Mexico pet entry requirements? You must have a valid APHIS Form 7001 , or a valid health certificate signed by a qualified veterinarian and have current rabies shot.

traslado de mascotas pet travel Mexico? Sí, puedes transportar a tu mascota en México

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When you are driving to Mexico for business or pleasure, you might want to take along your favorite pets.

Here is some more practical advice for bringing your dog or cat along.

Bring a first aid kit designed for your pet. If your cat or dog gets a tick and you are not near a vet, this kit will help you remove it. You can typically purchase a first aid kit for your pet at your US vet office. Put your pet on heartworm medicine. Dogs pick up heartworms quickly and easily when they are running around in rural places.

Give your pet flea control medication. Especially if you are hoping to keep your pet with you in the hotel or motel. This will make your stay (and the stay of future hotel guests) more pleasant. And prevent him from picking up fleas from the last guest.

Make a list of your pet's favorite (and most needed) items, such as:

food dishes
favorite toys
special blankets
plastic bags for cleanup

Check it carefully before you leave and pack it all so as not to spend the trip with a howling dog without his favorite tennis ball or cat that misses her catnip mouse. Also, be sure to check it against our list of items you should take in your car .

Tips to consider while your pet is in Mexico

Give your pet plenty of fresh air. Take a break every couple of hours at rest stops so that your pet can stretch her legs,drink some water and use the great outdoors for, er, relief.
NEVER leave your pet alone in the car with the window open. Even if you are parked in the shade. According to the American Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), your vehicle can heat up to 160 degrees in a matter of minutes on a hot day, which could have deadly results for your pet.
Carry all pet paperwork with you. You will have a much more relaxing vacation by keeping the paperwork on hand, just in case the authorities start to wonder about Fifi.
Keep your dog leashed and away from strays at all times. A lot of disease-carrying stray animals roam throughout towns and villages. Since the soil and these strays are covered with ticks, keep your dog on its leash and away from strays. If your pet comes into contact with a stray, gets a tick, or even eats poisoned food which is often put out to kill strays, it can be tough to find a well-trained veterinarian.
Make sure that your pet ID tags are current so that he is not mistaken for a stray.

Where to buy food for your pet in Mexico

If you are driving to one of the bigger cities in Mexico, particularly those in the north and central regions, you will be able to find large supermarket chains that carry dry dog and cat food, such as Wal-Mart and Gigante. Don not count on finding specialty brands, though, or even canned food, especially for dogs.

If your pet is on a special diet or is picky about a certain brand, bring plenty of food for him as you can not count on being able to find that food or get prescription pet food in Mexico.

If you are planning a camping trip, or going to travel throughout smaller towns and villages, you should bring along enough dog food from home for your entire trip. You may also want to seriously consider buying bottled water for your pet to drink while you are traveling, since many dogs get sick when they drink water that they are not accustomed to.

A hotel room for you and your pet

***Visit our list of Pet Friendly Hotels in Mexico for details on hotels, motels and RV parks from Rosarito to Ensenada that will give your furry friends a place to stay with you on your drive into Mexico.

The road home

After your trip, you will of course be bringing your pet back into the US. There are rules for that, too. Make sure you are familiar with them before driving to Mexico. Read more about bringing your pet back to the US from Mexico .

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Flights with pets

Anyone with a furry friend knows that flights with pets are hard to come by. Luckily, Aeromexico's modern policy allows you to easily bring your pet, be it a cat, dog, or bird, along with the rest of your family to your vacation in Mexico.

As an ever-evolving company, Aeromexico is dedicated to providing the best possible in-flight experience—and that includes for your beloved pet. Whether you have a service and emotional support animal or are bringing your pet along in the cabin or checking them into the baggage hold, Aeromexico's accommodating rules and friendly customer service ensure you safe and stress-free travels to beautiful and cultural Mexico.

Level up your trip to Mexico by including your beloved pet in your family photos. No matter which part of the country you travel to, your pet will love discovering a stunning new destination along with you. And since your trip begins as soon as you get on the plane, Aeromexico promises you'll start off on the right paw.

Find your next adventure with your pet

Thanks to Aeromexico, the vanguards of Latin American aviation, you can bring your pets along on your vacation in Mexico. Whether you're flying domestically or from South America, Aeromexico's cutting-edge pet policy allows your four-legged friends to comfortably come for the ride.

No matter if you'll be hitting the beaches of Cancun or the streets of Mexico City, we know for sure your pet will appreciate exploring the country's exciting destinations by your side. Service and emotional support animals are welcome on board, as are most cats and dogs.

Aeromexico provides a consistently comfortable flight experience. Regardless if you're hopping on a quick domestic flight throughout Mexico or you're in for the long haul from Buenos Aires, you and your pet can enjoy Aeromexico's many perks, such as in-flight entertainment and online/mobile check-in.

Travel to more destinations with your best friend 🐾

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Procedure for bringing pets into mexico.

The purpose of this text is to provide information to people intending to bring into Mexico animals such as dogs and cats, reptiles, songbirds and ornamental birds, ferrets, turtles, etc., regarding the steps to follow and the requirements to be met at Agricultural Health Inspection Offices (OISA) located at international airports, border crossings and international seaports. It is important to note that in Mexico only cats and dogs are considered pets. Please note that the Mexican Consular Network is not authorized to intervene in this process. 1) Documentary screening at the OISA

Submit a Health Certificate in original and copy, issued by a private Veterinarian or by the corresponding Federal Authority in the country from which the pet is arriving. For health certificates issued on official forms, these must be duly signed by official personnel of the country of origin or provenance, and if no term of validity is indicated, the form must be issued no more than 15 days prior to the date of import into Mexico. The Heath Certificate issued by the Veterinarian must be on letterhead paper, including the Veterinarian’s professional license number (or its equivalent), and must indicate:

Name and address of the exporter and importer (owner), as well as the pet’s identification data.

Rabies vaccine, indicating the date of application and validity of the vaccination; alternatively, this information can appear on the Vaccination Record. Animals under three months of age are exempt from this requirement.

That the animal has undergone a preventive treatment against internal and external parasites within six months prior to travel, and that it is free of external parasites (date of application and active ingredient must be indicated).

That when the pet was examined it was found to be clinically healthy prior to export.

If during the documentary screening it is found that the health certificate does not indicate one of the requirements mentioned in the previous points, the importer can present the vaccination record (original and copy) showing the missing requirements, or contact a trusted Veterinarian to apply the missing treatments. In the latter case, any costs associated with this treatment will be covered by the interested party.

2) Physical inspection of pets at the OISA.

OISA staff will verify that the physical description stated in the Health Certificate matches your pe

t (sex, breed, and colour), and will verify the state of health and ensure that the animal is free of external parasites. If during the physical inspection it is detected that the pet is not free of external parasites, it will be necessary for a private Veterinarian to apply the corresponding treatment, at the importer’s expense.

3) Issuance of the Health Certificate for Import at the OISA.

Once the above requirements have been met, official OISA staff will prepare the Health Certificate for Import.

Explanatory Notes

Compliance with the animal health requirements stated above does not exempt the importer from following procedures and/or presenting documents required by other authorities.

The importer is not allowed to bring into the country the animal’s bedding or other related materials, only the amount of balanced feed required for the day of arrival.

If you need more information upon arrival in the country, official OISA staff will advise you on the proper procedures.

Arriving in the country without Animal Health documents:

Animals must remain at the Health Inspection Office until a Veterinarian has reviewed and certified the state of health and applied the rabies vaccine and parasite prevention treatment to continue with the import procedure. This can cause delays and costs that the owner will be required to cover. Importing animals other than cats and dogs (reptiles, songbirds and ornamental birds, ferrets and turtles): You will need to comply with special requirements as indicated in the Animal Health Requirements Sheet, which can be requested through the public service module of the Directorate General of Animal Health, located at Boulevard Adolfo Ruiz Cortines 5010, Planta baja, Col. Insurgentes Cuicuilco, Ciudad de México. C.P. 04530 Hours of operation from Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm,

Tel.: 01 (55) 5905-1000 or 1 (800) 987-9879. You can also check the requirements listed online at the following website (Spanish only):

https://www.gob.mx/senasica/acciones-y-programas/importaciones

Best Cancun Airport Shuttle (2024)

Are you looking for the best Cancun airport shuttle? I’m here to help!

I lived in Cancun and have flown in and out of the airport several times. Getting out of the airport and to your hotel can be tedious. You just want to start your vacation and not hassle with people trying to sell you stuff.

Don’t worry. I have the answer you’re looking for: Cancun Airport Transportation . Yep, that’s their name. And what they do! I’ve used them many times and they’re the only Cancun shuttle I recommend.

Cancun Airport Transportation

Flat rate for up to 8 passengers
Reliable service
Transfers to Cancun and Riviera Maya

Best Cancun Airport Shuttle

Why do I consider Cancun Airport Transportation to be the best shuttle in Cancun? For several reasons. Let’s take a look at all their features. I’ll also list some of their cons so you can be sure this is the right shuttle for you.

Cancun Airport Transportation Features

1. flat rate for up to 8 people.

Imagine landing in Cancun and knowing your ride to the Hotel Zone is sorted for as little as $5.50 per person, assuming you’re rolling with a crew of eight.

It’s a deal that takes the hassle out of haggling for fares or worrying about hidden charges. This feature is especially appealing for families or groups aiming to keep travel costs low without sacrificing comfort and convenience.

2. Transportation Options Throughout Riviera Maya

Whether your itinerary calls for the ruins of Tulum, the island vibes of Cozumel , or the tranquil shores of Puerto Morelos, Cancun Airport Transportation has got your back.

Their coverage across Riviera Maya ensures that your dream destination is never out of reach. It’s about offering you the freedom to explore this beautiful region with ease.

3. Great Rates

We’re talking competitive pricing that fits neatly into your travel budget. Whether your stay is long or short, and no matter how far off the beaten path you’re headed, Cancun Airport Transportation offers some of the best rates out there.

It’s about maximizing your vacation dollars, so you have more to spend on experiences and adventures that matter.

4. Private Shuttles

Say goodbye to cramped, shared rides where you’re stopping every other block. With Cancun Airport Transportation, your shuttle is yours and yours alone.

This means direct service to your destination without any unwanted detours. It’s not just about privacy; it’s about ensuring a smooth, stress-free start to your vacation.

5. Easy to Book

Cancun Airport Transportation’s booking process is straightforward, ensuring that securing your ride is as breezy as a Caribbean beach. A few clicks and you’re all set, leaving you more time to daydream about the warm sands and turquoise waters waiting for you.

Cons of Cancun Airport Transportation

While I love their service, there are some downsides to Cancun Airport Transportation. Let’s take a look.

Higher Cost for Solo Travelers: If you’re adventuring solo, the appeal of a private shuttle might dim a bit when you consider the cost. Since you’re not splitting the fare with others, the price per ride is significantly higher compared to shared shuttle services or public transportation. It’s a premium convenience that comes at a price, which might not fit into every solo traveler’s budget.
Less Interaction with Fellow Travelers: One of the hidden joys of shared transportation is meeting people from all walks of life. With a private shuttle, you miss out on the chance to exchange stories or tips, or even make new friends on your way to the hotel. For some, this social aspect of travel is a cherished part of the experience.
Limited Spontaneity: Booking a private shuttle often requires planning and reservations in advance. This might limit your flexibility if you’re the type to make spur-of-the-moment decisions or if your travel plans change at the last minute. While it ensures a smooth ride to your destination, it does mean you’re a bit locked into your schedule.

My Experience With Cancun Airport Transportation

My experiences with Cancun Airport Transportation have been nothing short of fantastic.

After a long day of flights and layovers, then getting through customs , the sight of my driver holding up a sign with my name on it was a beacon of comfort.

There’s something incredibly reassuring about knowing someone is there specifically for you, ready to whisk you away to your destination without a hitch. The convenience and ease of this service were worth every penny. It was as if the vacation vibe started the moment I met my driver, setting the tone for a stress-free stay.

There was no hassle of negotiating fares, no stress of finding a reputable taxi, and certainly no confusion about where to go. It was seamless, from finding my driver to stepping out at my destination.

Who is Cancun Airport Transportation Best For?

Cancun Airport Transportation caters to a diverse array of travelers seeking seamless and reliable transport in Cancun. Here’s a quick look at who will benefit most from their services:

Families and Groups: Their flat-rate deals for up to 8 people make it a cost-effective and convenient option, ensuring everyone sticks together from the get-go.
Solo Travelers and Couples: For those valuing privacy, safety, and convenience, the service offers a stress-free start to your vacation, albeit at a higher cost.
Business Travelers: With punctual and efficient service, it’s ideal for professionals who need a reliable ride without wasting any time.
First-Time Visitors: Navigating a new place can be daunting. Having a driver ready upon arrival eases travel anxiety, offering a warm welcome to Cancun.

In short, Cancun Airport Transportation is perfect for anyone looking for comfort, ease, and a worry-free journey to their destination in Cancun and Riviera Maya.

Cancun Airport Transportation Vehicles and Pricing

Cancun Airport Transportation offers a variety of vehicle types to meet the diverse needs and preferences of travelers. Whether you’re looking for affordability, luxury, or the capacity to transport a large group, they have options tailored to every requirement.

Here’s a breakdown of their pricing and vehicle types:

Private Transportation

Vehicle: VW Transporter
Capacity: Up to 8 passengers (including kids/infants)
Pricing: Starting from $44 USD
Overview: This service is perfect for families or small groups seeking a private and comfortable ride directly to their destination.

Luxury Transportation SUV

Vehicle: Suburban or Similar
Capacity: Up to 6 passengers (including kids/infants)
Pricing: Starting from $79 USD
Overview: Opt for a touch of luxury with spacious and upscale SUVs, ideal for smaller groups or families looking for a bit more comfort and style.

Premium Transportation SUV

Vehicle: Cadillac
Capacity: Up to 5 passengers (including kids/infants)
Pricing: Starting from $146 USD
Overview: This premium option offers the ultimate luxury experience, with top-of-the-line vehicles for those who demand the best in comfort and elegance.

Group Transportation Semi-Bus

Vehicle: VW Crafter, Transit, or similar
Capacity: Up to 16 people (including kids/infants)
Overview: Designed for larger groups, this option ensures everyone stays together, making it perfect for big family gatherings or groups of friends.

Limo Transportation

Vehicle: Chrysler 300 or Suburban
Capacity: 11 – 14 people)
Pricing: Starting from $249 USD
Overview: For those special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself, the limo service adds a layer of luxury and exclusivity to your arrival or departure.

Each service is tailored to provide convenience, comfort, and style, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every traveler’s needs. Whether you prioritize budget, luxury, or the capacity to accommodate a large party, Cancun Airport Transportation has you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Cancun Airport Shuttle

What is the cost of a cancun airport shuttle to the hotel zone.

Starting from $44 USD for a private VW Transporter that accommodates up to 8 passengers.

Can I book a shuttle from Cancun Airport to Tulum?

Yes, transportation is available to all destinations, including Tulum, with various vehicle options to suit your needs.

Are children counted as passengers in the shuttle?

Yes, kids and infants are considered passengers in vehicle capacity counts.

How do I find my shuttle at Cancun Airport?

Your driver will be waiting for you with a sign displaying your name outside the arrivals terminal.

What if my flight is delayed?

The shuttle service monitors flight statuses and adjusts pickup times accordingly, ensuring your driver is there when you arrive.

Do I need to tip my shuttle driver?

Tipping is not included in the fare, so it’s appreciated for good service but at your discretion.

Wrap-Up: Is Cancun Airport Transportation Worth It?

For me, Cancun Airport Transportation is the best choice for getting out of the airport. They have the best prices I’ve found and are super reliable.

Whether you’re looking for an economical ride for a large group, a luxurious SUV for a special vacation, or a sleek limo to start your trip in style, there’s an option available for you.

With competitive pricing, a range of vehicle types to choose from, and the convenience of having a driver waiting upon your arrival, the stress of airport transfers becomes a thing of the past.

Guide to Getting Through Cancun Customs Quickly and Easily
7-Day Cancun Itinerary: Best Things to See and Do
Cancun or Cozumel: Which is Better for Your Vacation?
Best Time to Visit Xcaret in Mexico
Best Tours For Scuba Diving in Cancun
How to Get to Cozumel From Cancun – and Back Again
Is Cozumel Safer Than Cancun?
Adventurous Things to Do in Cancun
25 Amazing Cenotes for Mexico Cave Diving
How to Get From Cancun to Tulum

Pro Tips for Your Mexico Trips

Do i need travel insurance.

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Will my phone work in Mexico?

You can also get an eSIM. Airalo has coverage in over 200 countries/regions, including Mexico.

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

What do I pack for Mexico?

My Mexico packing list has all the info you need on packing for your trip to Mexico.

What’s the best site for great deals on flights to Mexico?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Probably Not . U.S., Canadian, and most European passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico. To verify if you’ll need a Mexico travel visa check the Mexican Consulate’s website.

For assistance with all your worldwide visa questions, check out iVisa .

The post Best Cancun Airport Shuttle (2024) appeared first on Digital Nomad and a Dog .

Are you looking for the best Cancun airport shuttle? I've got you covered. I've lived in Cancun and use and recommend this company above all others.

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How To Travel To Mexico With Your Dog: A Complete Guide
How To Travel To Mexico With Your Dog: A Complete Guide
Here’s How To Bring Your Dog On Vacation To Mexico
Advice & Tips For Traveling With A Pet/Bringing A Dog To Mexico
Traveling To Mexico From The U.S. With A Dog
How To Travel To Mexico With Your Dog: A Complete Guide

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Our Dogs Recreate Mexico Flag 🇲🇽 #shorts

COMMENTS

Pet travel from the United States to Mexico
Travel Requirements Based on Pet Type. Effective 12/16/2019: A health certificate for dogs and cats is no longer needed to enter Mexico. Dogs and cats may be taken to the border without health certificate documentation, they will be inspected by SENASICA upon arrival. Please follow the guidance on this page.
How To Travel To Mexico With Your Dog: A Complete Guide
The average fee for a one-way flight to Mexico for your dog, ranges from $99 to $125. That does not include potential additional fees such as veterinarian costs; dog food, and an airline accepted pet crate, for a total ranging anywhere from $350 to $650 for a round-trip flight for your dog from the U.S. to Mexico.
Traveling To Mexico From The U.S. With A Dog
What Dogs Need. On December 16, 2019, the United States Department of Agriculture announced that cats and dogs traveling to Mexico from the U.S. no longer need a health certificate. The rules now state that travelers with the pet dogs and/or cats must visit the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA), and see the person working ...
How to Travel to Mexico With Your Pet
Take the original and a simple copy. Proof of rabies vaccine administered at least 15 days before the pet's arrival in Mexico. The vaccination certificate should state when the vaccine was administered and how long it is valid, as well as the product name and lot number. When you arrive in Mexico with your pet, SAGARPA-SENASICA (Secretariat of ...
Traveling to Mexico with a Dog: A Step by Step Guide (Updated 2023)
Step 1: Country requirements. In 2019, Mexico changed their policy for dogs and cats entering the country from the USA: Update effective 12/16/2019: A health certificate for dogs and cats is no longer needed to enter Mexico. Dogs and cats may be taken to the border without health certificate documentation, they will be inspected by SENASICA ...
Guidelines & Contacts for Bringing Pets to Mexico
Arriving with your pet in Mexico. You are permitted to import two pets (cats, dogs, or a cat and dog) into Mexico. This limit is per person, so if you are a couple, you can import up to 4 pets. Note that if you import more than 3 pets, you will need to pay additional fees. See the website links below for details and procedures.
Dog-Friendly Mexico: Travelling in Mexico with a Dog
VivaAerobus Pet Policy: VivaAerobus claims that they are the airline with the most space to transport pets within Mexico, permitting pets both in the cabin and as checked baggage to any destination.. For pets travelling in the cabin, there is a maximum weight of 27 lbs (12.25kg) for the dog or cat and their carrier, which can be up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches (46 x 35.5 x 20cm).
Traveling to Mexico With a Dog: 8 Vet-Approved Tips
The 8 Tips to Consider Before Traveling to Mexico With Your Dog. 1. Obtain a Rabies Certificate. Despite the ease of the country's restrictions when it comes to dogs entering, you still need to carry the required rabies certificate. The certificate may be asked by border control before entering, and if you do not have the certificate, you and ...
Taking Pets to Mexico
Proof of a rabies vaccination for each pet you bring to Mexico. ONLY enough food for one day OR up to 50 pounds of sealed, unopened, bagged food for your pet. IF FLYING: A health certificate if your airline requires it. Upon landing in Mexico, take your pet to the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA).
Traveling to Mexico with a Dog or Cat
Each person is permitted to bring two pets to Mexico. This could be two cats, two dogs, or a cat and a dog. This is a per-person limit. If you are traveling with your partner, you could bring 4 pets (2 each). Many airlines only allow one pet per person. If you're flying, check with your airline first.
Mexico Pet Quarantine and Travel Regulations
Entry Requirements. Complete the following entry requirements to travel to Mexico with your pet: Travelers from U.S. no longer need to bring a health certificate for dogs and cats. Upon arrival to Mexico, travelers must instead visit the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA) to contact the official personnel working with ...
Traveling with Dogs To Mexico
Requirements and Processes For Bringing Pets to Mexico (if traveling from the U.S. or Canada) Mexico no longer requires your pet to have a health certificate from a veterinarian if you are from the U.S. or Canada. However, they do require an up-to-date rabies certificate. No requirement to provide proof of parasite prevention (fleas and ticks ...
Flying to Mexico with a DOG
The health certificate must indicate the following: #1 Your dog is vaccinated against rabies (with validity through your travel dates) #2 Your dog is found clinically healthy by the veterinarian before the trip. #3 Your dog is dewormed/deloused within the past six months, AND free of ectoparasites. If the health certificate is found to be non ...
Here's How To Bring Your Dog On Vacation To Mexico
Checking in a dog as baggage. Cost: $252 in low-season and $258 in high-season per dog. Sizing and Weight Restrictions: maximum weight of the dog and the container is 45kg (99.2 pounds). The carrier must meet the standards of the airline, such as size, quality, and the ability to lock. It is recommended to check the international requirements here.
Guide To Traveling With A Dog In Mexico In 2024
Once you arrive in Mexico your dog (or cat) will be inspected to ensure it is healthy. Pro tip: When flying to Mexico, there are no pet relief areas in the airport before going through customs. (At least this is true in Cancun and Cozumel). Take disposable potty pads that your dog can use in the restroom.
Traveling in Mexico with a Dog
Safety Concerns. Traveling in Mexico with a dog is generally safe, especially when driving the cuotas or toll roads and spending time in areas without safety concerns. This applies to the owner more than the dog however. In terms of dog safety, be cautious about walking around because trash is often available to dogs.
Pets travelling
Traveling with pets other than dogs and cats (singing- and ornamental birds, ferrets, turtles) You need to meet the special requirements established in the Animal Health Requirements Sheet, that can be requested from the customer service of the General Management of Animal Health, located in Boulevard Adolfo Ruiz Cortines 5010, Ground floor ...
FLYING TO MEXICO CITY WITH DOGS
This article will explain what to expect when flying with a dog to Mexico City, the SENASICA OISA office and the importation process. ... Thank you for the additional remarks. I certainly feel a lot less anxious about the upcoming travel of my dog to Mexico. I still fear that I will either be stopped at boarding leaving from the US or stuck in ...
Pet Travel Mexico: 3 Entry Requirements And Best Practices
Talk to a travel agent or find a pet friendly travel packages to Mexico Talk to your hotel, they will let you know if they have any pet rules and places you can take your pets Find a local pet services (pet barber, veterinarian, dog walkers, etc etc) about pet friendly areas in the place you plan to visit in Mexico
Pets into Mexico
Rules for bringing your dog or cat into Mexico from the US. Free Map of Mexico; Insurance Info; Mexico Travel; Live Help (800) 485-4075 ... (800) 485-4075 Se Habla Espanol Mexico Travel. Insurance Info. Auto. Motorcycle. RV. Medical Evac. Boat. Drivers License. ATV. Homeowner. Login. MENU Purchase & Print or Save to phone Get A Quote Home ...
Flights with Pets
Luckily, Aeromexico's modern policy allows you to easily bring your pet, be it a cat, dog, or bird, along with the rest of your family to your vacation in Mexico. As an ever-evolving company, Aeromexico is dedicated to providing the best possible in-flight experience—and that includes for your beloved pet.
Procedure for Bringing Pets into Mexico
The purpose of this text is to provide information to people intending to bring into Mexico animals such as dogs and cats, reptiles, songbirds and ornamental birds, ferrets, turtles, etc., regarding the steps to follow and the requirements to be met at Agricultural Health Inspection Offices (OISA) located at international airports, border crossings and international seaports.
Best Cancun Airport Shuttle (2024)
Cancun Airport Transportation Features 1. Flat Rate for Up to 8 People. Imagine landing in Cancun and knowing your ride to the Hotel Zone is sorted for as little as $5.50 per person, assuming you ...

How To Travel To Mexico With Your Dog: A Complete Guide

What You Need In Order To Travel To Mexico With Your Dog

Bringing Your Dog’s Food To Mexico

The Cost To Fly Your Dog To Mexico

Flying To Mexico With Your Dog

Flying With Your Dog In-Cabin

Flying With A Large Dog To Mexico

Is It Safe For Your Dog To Fly In Cargo

Flying To Mexico With A Service or Emotional Support Dog

Feeding Your Dog Before Your Flight

Traveling To Mexico With Your Dog Often

Coming Back From Mexico With Your Dog

Driving To Mexico With Your Dog

The Cost To Drive Your Dog To Mexico

Is It Safe To Bring Your Dog To Mexico

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Traveling To Mexico From The U.S. With A Dog

The rules for traveling to Mexico from the U.S. with a dog changed in 2019. If you’re planning to head south of the border with your pup, these tips will help make your trip a success!

Traveling To Mexico With A Dog

What People Need

Auto Insurance

What Dogs Need

Pet Inspections When Entering Mexico

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Traveling to Mexico with a Dog: A Step by Step Guide (Updated 2023)

Traveling to Mexico with a dog

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Step 4: Flight Day

Step 5: Arrival Check

What was your experience like going to Mexico? We’d love to hear.

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