Many people who spend long periods of time living in Mexico like to bring their pets, some people like their pets to accompany them on vacation. If you are thinking of taking your dog or cat into Mexico there are a few steps you should take in advance.

Your pet’s immunization shots should be in date, and you will need the following documentation; proof of vaccines against rabies and distemper administered at least 15 days before the pet's arrival, and a certificate of good health from your vet issued up to 10 days before entry to Mexico.

In some cases you may not be asked to produce these documents, however it would be advisable to have them to hand. There is no quarantine period in Mexico, but after living in Mexico your pet will need to have a rabies vaccination to get back into the US (if over three months old). You are allowed to enter Mexico with up to two cats or two dogs. If you wish to bring more animals into Mexico it is advisable to contact your nearest consulate office or the Mexican embassy.

If you are bringing your pet by air, check with your airline operator about restrictions on weight and size of the pets they allow on flights.

Other common pets can be taken living in Mexico with you if you have a certificate of good health, animals such as rabbits, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs and ferrets are accepted. The importation of reptiles and invertebrates is restricted as well as snails, fish and wildlife products. There may be case by case exceptions; if you need questions answering you can contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

If you wish to bring your bird to be living in Mexico with you, then you can import it as a pet as long as you comply with APHIS (Animal and Public Health Information System) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife requirements. This may include quarantining your bird or birds, at your expense, at one of the three APHIS Animal Import Centers. You must make advance reservations at the quarantine facility.

If you know before you go and plan ahead you will not face any unexpected costs or delays for your journey and you and your pets will have a stress free trip. They’ll be happy when they arrive, whether on vacaction with you or living in Mexico.

Visit our Moving to Mexico guide pages for more about Living in Mexico.