Traveling with Pets from Mexico to the U.S. – Everything You Need to Know
Crossing the border with your furry companion? 🐾 Whether you're coming for vet care or heading back to the U.S., VetPlayas has your back with essential tips, health rules, and border documents you shouldn’t ignore.
✅ Basic Requirements for Returning to the U.S. with Pets
Bringing your dog or cat back into the United States? Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rabies vaccination certificate (must be current and signed by a licensed vet)
- Healthy appearance (no signs of disease or distress)
- Secure leash, harness, or carrier
- Proof of ownership (optional but helpful: adoption papers, vet receipts)
Pro tip: The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may inspect your pet visually, especially dogs.
📍 Where to Get Required Documents in Tijuana
VetPlayas can issue the necessary health certificate and ensure your pet is fully compliant before your return trip. Just let us know ahead of time that you plan to cross the border.
🚨 Special Rules for Dogs from “High-Risk” Countries
Mexico is classified as a high-risk country for canine rabies by the CDC. This means you’ll need:
- A valid rabies vaccine certificate in English
- CDC Import Permit (for some re-entry cases)
- Proof of microchip (linked to rabies vaccination record)
Returning U.S. citizens with their pets are generally allowed back in, but paperwork must be correct.
💉 Keep Your Pet’s Health Up to Date
Before crossing, make sure your pet is current on vaccinations and parasite protection. VetPlayas offers affordable:
- Rabies shots & vaccines
- Flea & tick prevention
- Travel health certificates
🚗 Tips for a Smooth Border Crossing with Pets
- Travel during off-peak hours to reduce wait time
- Have your documents in-hand, not in the trunk
- Keep pets calm with familiar items (blanket, toy)
- Water, snacks, and pee pads help for longer lines
🧾 What About Coming *Into* Mexico with Pets?
Mexico allows up to 2 pets (dogs/cats) per traveler without quarantine. Bring:
- Rabies certificate (not older than 12 months)
- Health certificate from a U.S. vet (within 15 days of travel)
At VetPlayas, we also help U.S. travelers get their return documents ready after receiving veterinary care here.
Book a Pre-Travel Vet Visit
Whether you're prepping to cross the border or just finished surgery or vaccinations at our clinic, book a vet visit now and travel with total peace of mind.
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