US–Mexico Round Trip with Pets

Updated: 2026-10-13

Entering Mexico from the US

For cats from the US, the described Mexican procedure retains the general health-certificate exception. Dogs from the US require the newer GBG screwworm inspection document from 3 August 2026, signed by an accredited veterinarian and valid for five calendar days. Present either species for SENASICA/OISA inspection of health, wounds and external parasites; ticks may lead to sampling and retention. Confirm the current issuing procedure and keep airline/transit requirements separate.

Returning with a dog

CDC chooses the dog’s entry pathway from its six-month history and vaccination location. Only if the full history qualifies for the rabies-free or low-risk branch should its simplified receipt procedure be used. That branch also requires age, health and microchip conditions; merely arriving from Mexico is not a full eligibility check.

Cats and onward destinations

CDC requires cats to appear healthy, while states, territories and airlines can set additional conditions. If the itinerary continues to Hawaii, Guam or another country, check that leg separately. Keep outward and return records together, but do not assume the same document exemption applies in both directions.