Does part of your move to Puerto Vallarta include a furry family member? Bringing a pet into Mexico in 2024 requires navigating various regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of your pet. These rules are essential for preventing the spread of disease and ensuring that pets are well cared for during their journey. While the process may seem a little daunting, we have the steps to get you and your four-legged friend on your way to your new life in Puerto Vallarta.
To legally bring a pet into Mexico, you must first visit a licensed veterinarian in your home country to obtain a health certificate. This certificate must be issued within 10 days of your pet’s arrival in Mexico and should document that your pet is free from infectious diseases and has received all required vaccinations. Specifically, dogs and cats need to be vaccinated against rabies, and the rabies certificate should be valid for at least 30 days before arrival but not more than a year old.
When entering in Puerto Vallarta by air, you will need to present these documents to the Mexican animal health authorities at airport. Your pet will undergo a brief physical inspection to check for signs of illness or distress. If fleas or ticks are found, you may be required to seek veterinary treatment before your pet is allowed to leave the airport facility.
Another key element is to have a crate or carrier that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) which will ensure your pet's comfort and safety during transit. It’s also important to note that during summer months, pets are not permitted to travel in the lower cargo areas of aircraft, due to hot temperatures.
Mexico currently does not require a quarantine period for pets that meet all the regulatory requirements. However, you should stay updated with the latest information from the Mexican Government's agricultural health authority (SENASICA) as regulations can change and guidance here is only current as per time of publication.
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