Bringing a dog or cat to Mexico: pet relocation

Bringing a dog or cat to Mexico from the US is simpler than most international pet moves. The harder parts are usually the airline’s rules and the journey itself.

Dogs and cats

• Mexico’s animal health agency inspects dogs and cats on arrival. The animal should be healthy, clean and free of parasites, and travelling in a clean carrier.
• Mexico’s paperwork requirements for dogs and cats arriving from the US are light, but they change. Check the current rules shortly before you travel.
• Airlines set their own requirements, which are often stricter: health certificates dated within a few days of the flight, carrier sizes, breed and temperature restrictions.
• If you may bring a dog back to the US later, check the current US re-entry rules as well.

Driving across

Many people drive their pets across the border, which avoids airline restrictions. Carry vaccination records, and expect an inspection.

Other animals

Birds, reptiles and other species need import permits and sometimes quarantine, and some species can’t be brought in. Start months ahead and take advice.

When a relocation service is worth it

• Large dogs that must fly as cargo.
• Snub-nosed breeds, which many airlines restrict.
• Several animals, or species other than dogs and cats.
• Moves in hot months, when airlines refuse animals in the hold.

What to ask before hiring

• Which airlines and routes do you use for Mexico, and why?
• What exactly is included: crate, vet paperwork, customs clearance, delivery?
• Who is with my animal at each stage, and how do I get updates?
• What happens if a flight is cancelled or the weather is too hot to fly?

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Mexico from the US?

Yes. Dogs and cats are inspected on arrival and should be healthy and free of parasites. Mexico's paperwork requirements for dogs and cats from the US are light, but airlines often require a recent health certificate, so check both before you travel.

Do pets have to be quarantined in Mexico?

Healthy dogs and cats arriving from the US are not normally quarantined. An animal that appears sick or has parasites can be held for treatment at your expense.