Can I take my dog 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.

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: You will need to show the health certificates from the veterinary surgeon—the same documents you will require at the port of entry in Mexico.

Crossing the border Before you travel, your vet needs to provide you with two health certificates for each pet: Health Certificate issued by an official authority or by a licensed veterinarian; and Proof of vaccines against rabies and distemper, administered at least 15 days before the  arrival of your pet in Mexico. Take your pet(s) to the zoo sanitary kiosk (look for the acronym SAGARPA which the Ministry responsible for this process) at the port of entry and present the documentation to facilitate your pet’s entry into Mexico.