Traveling to Mexico with a dog or cat is usually straightforward, but the rules depend on your pet, your country of origin, and whether you are entering Mexico, returning to the United States, or traveling with an animal other than a dog or cat.
Yes. Dogs and cats can enter Mexico, but they must be presented to SENASICA personnel at the Agricultural Health Inspection Office, known as OISA, at the port of entry. Officials perform a physical inspection to confirm that the pet appears healthy, free of ectoparasites, and without fresh or healing wounds.
Your dog or cat should arrive in a clean carrier. Avoid bedding, toys, extra food, or disposable materials inside the carrier, as officials may require removal or disinfection.
At the airport, seaport, or land border, contact SENASICA personnel at the OISA office for the official inspection.
Officials check for signs of infectious disease, parasites, ticks, wounds, or other health concerns. If parasites are found, treatment and any related costs are the owner’s responsibility.
Even when Mexico does not require a health certificate for U.S.-origin dogs and cats, it is smart to travel with backup documents. Airlines, hotels, boarding facilities, and return-entry rules may ask for them.
Pets are only one part of a smooth Mexico road trip. Make sure your vehicle, permits, tourist documents, and insurance are ready before you reach the border.
Dogs returning to the United States must meet CDC import rules. For dogs that have only been in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries during the prior six months, the CDC requires the CDC Dog Import Form. Dogs must also appear healthy, be at least six months old, and have a microchip detectable by a universal scanner.
Because Mexico has been treated by APHIS as affected by screwworm, dogs returning from Mexico may also need to meet APHIS screwworm-related entry requirements. Confirm current requirements before departure.
Birds, reptiles, rabbits, aquatic animals, and other species may require specific import documentation through Mexico’s animal health requirements system. Do not assume the dog-and-cat rules apply. Check SENASICA’s animal health import requirements before you book travel.
Birds and certain other animals can face additional restrictions because of disease-control rules, including avian influenza restrictions.
If you travel to Mexico with your pet more than three times a year, ask SENASICA about the Programa Mascota Viajero Frecuente, or PMVF. The program can simplify repeat entries for registered pets. You will still need to present your pet for inspection when entering Mexico.
Confirm pet rules directly with the hotel or rental host. Some properties allow pets but restrict size, breed, furniture access, or leaving pets alone in the room.
Beach towns and inland cities can get hot. Walk early or late, carry water, and check pavement before long walks.
Many Mexican towns have free-roaming dogs. Keep your pet leashed and avoid unnecessary contact, especially if your dog is reactive.
For dogs and cats originating in and traveling from the United States to Mexico, APHIS states that a health certificate is no longer required. However, SENASICA will inspect your pet upon arrival. Travelers from other countries, travelers with other animals, and airline passengers should confirm current requirements before travel.
Yes. Even if a U.S. carrier says your car has some coverage while in Mexico, U.S. insurance is not recognized by Mexican authorities for damage you cause to others. At minimum, travelers should carry Liability Only coverage from a Mexican insurance carrier. Learn more about driving laws in Mexico or get a quote from GoBuho.com.
Only bring what your pet needs for the day of arrival. Extra food, bedding, toys, or disposable materials in the carrier may be removed during inspection.
SENASICA may require treatment by a veterinarian, testing, or temporary holding at OISA. Any treatment, testing, or related costs are the pet owner’s responsibility.
CDC rules require the CDC Dog Import Form for dogs that have only been in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries during the previous six months. Dogs must appear healthy, be at least six months old, and have a universal-scanner-readable microchip. APHIS requirements may also apply.
This guide is for general travel planning only. Pet import rules can change without notice. Always confirm current requirements with SENASICA, APHIS, CDC, your airline, and your veterinarian before travel.
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