Transporting pets to Mexico......what steps should I take?

Question

If I´m crossing the border into Mexico, can I just walk across with a dog and a few frogs and toads in an aquarium? What are the fees?

I'd appreciate any serious answers from anyone that can help.

Thanks

Answer 1

Hi,

To take your dog into Mexico you need to bring an international certificate of good health (Form 77-043) that has been issued by a licensed veterinarian that has examined your dog within 10 days of your travels into Mexico, and proof of vaccination against rabies and distemper.  The shots have to have been administered at least 15 days before (but no more than 12 months) before your dog enters Mexico.  

The car insurance company we use has a whole page on this kind of thing, and I'll enclose a link to it in my sources so you can read more about what you will need for the dog.  

If you're planning to stay for more than 12 months, be aware that you will have to have your pet vaccinated again before re-entering the US - and be prepared for the fact that if inspectors at Customs see any signs of disease, they will quarantine your dog immediately upon your re-entry.  

Frogs fall into a different category, I think you would need to research that more carefully.  I found some information for you on the US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about animal importation; I'll post the link in my sources... but essentially it sounds as though your best bet is to contact the Mexican consulate to ask them specifically about frogs.  

I hope you enjoy your travels in Mexico with your pets!  Best wishes...

Answer 2

The last time that I checked on taking our Poodle into Mexico, there was not a fee but you need to show current papers on your pet from a VET that your pet is healthy and has had all the shots..... this was a year ago.  good luck

Answer 3

I don't know about the frogs. But, you have to have your dog licensed and certified that it has had rabies shots. And, not so much for the trip into Mexico. But, to get back into the U.S.

What U.S. Customs wants to prevent is someone going into Mexico, buying a dog from a breeder down there for considerably less than they could get it here, and bringing it back into the U.S. without the kind of disease controls we have here.

If your dog is licensed, that's taken care of. For a certification of health, take your dog to a vet and have it checked out. They will then issue you a certification of health that you can show to the authorities when crossing.

BTW - dogs really like it in Mexico. Everything's so stinky.