Moving to Mexico with pets in tow? We can help! Meet our experts and see how we can make this portion of your relocation as stress-free as possible so that you can focus on your human move.
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What to Know Before Moving Dogs and Cats to Mexico
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Microchip and Vaccinations
Make sure your pet meets these basic requirements so you can begin the import process.
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Import Documentation
Mexico requires import documentation that your veterinarian must complete.
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Ground Transportation
Once in Mexico, your pet may require ground transportation.
Mexico Import Requirements and Timeline
Henry: United States to Mexico
Microchip and Vaccinations
Time frame: we recommend starting at least 30 days ahead
All pets entering the Mexico must be vaccinated against rabies, and that rabies vaccine must be less than one year old. While microchips are not necessary, the PetRelocation highly reccomends having any pets who are traveling internationally microchipped.
How to start the process of moving your pet to Mexico
Make sure your pet is vaccinated against rabies. Pets should travel with an original Rabies Certificate signed by the vet.
Other recommended vaccines and veterinary requirements include:
- We recommend all pets have a microchip before entering Mexico.
- Dogs: Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza and Parvovirus (DHLPP) and Bordetella.
- Cats: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia (FVRCP).
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Parasite treatment: Dogs and cats must be treated for endo and ectoparasites within 180 days of departing for Mexico.
These should be valid at the time of import and administered no less than two weeks before the export date for maximum effectiveness.
Mylo: US to Mexico
Import Documentation
Time frame: within 10 days of travel
At this stage, we provide detailed templates for your veterinarian and answer any questions regarding the proper completion of all forms.
Proper paperwork prevents hangups at customs
Within 10 days of travel, your pet will need to see a veterinarian to get a health certificate for travel. From the United States, an APHIS-7001 health certificate is accepted. The health certificate does not need to be endorsed by the USDA if your veterinarian is USDA accredited.
Your pets will need to travel with:
- Original health certificate, with your veterinarian's ink signature on it.
- Original vaccine certificates for rabies and relevant general vaccines with your veterinarian's ink signature on it.
- Proof of parasite treatment.
Chilli: The UK to Mexico
Ground transportation (and why you may need it)
Long drives across country
Once in Mexico, your pets may need to travel by ground transportation. This would depend on a number of factors including destination, current weather, breed and size of your pet.
Flight restrictions for certain pets
Traveling within Mexico with your pet may come with its' own set of restrictions. Most major airlines will only fly into certain airports and will not offer transit flights within Mexico for many animals. Therefore, ground transportation may be the best option. Airlines may restrict flights within Mexico based on the following:
Our Mexico Team
Meet the experts behind your pet's move!