Microchipping is not officially required for dogs entering Mexico from the US or Canada, as Mexico Pet Import Requirements focuses on proof of rabies vaccination. However, a microchip is strongly recommended for safety, and essential for your pet's return to the U.S., which requires a microchip and specific, recent paperwork.

Does my dog need to be chipped to go to Mexico?

Requirements can change, and it's best to be prepared. Currently, Mexico typically requires a health certificate from a vet, and proof of rabies vaccination. The microchipping is not mandatory to enter Mexico, but is always a good idea.

Can I travel with my dog without a microchip?

Does my pet need a microchip to pet travel? Moving within the US, your pet is not required to have a microchip to travel. However, because a microchip is the only permanent form of identification, it is recommended that you consider getting one prior to moving with your pet.

What vaccines does a dog need to go to Mexico?

Your pet should carry an original Rabies Certificate signed by the vet during transportation. We highly recommend microchipping your pet before they enter Mexico. Dogs should be vaccinated against Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus (DHLPP), and Bordetella.

What do you need for your dog to go to Mexico?

For Mexico, you'll need a valid rabies vaccination certificate and a health certificate, though the latter is not mandatory for pets coming from the US or Canada. For the US, your dog needs to be microchipped, appear healthy, be at least six months old, and be accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form receipt.

Dog Owners’ 2025 Update: New USA to Mexico Travel Rules!

Do dogs need to be chipped to cross the border?

All dogs entering or returning to the U.S. must be accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. Dogs coming from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries do not require any other documents, but must still meet other requirements such appearing healthy, having a microchip, and being at least 6 months of age.

Is Mexico considered a high risk country for dogs?

Note: Mexico is not listed as a high-risk country for dog rabies.

Do I need to microchip my dog?

A: The best reason to have your animals microchipped is the improved chance that you'll get your animal back if it becomes lost or stolen.

What are the new requirements to travel to Mexico?

Immigration: All travelers to Mexico need a passport book or card to enter Mexico. U.S. citizen minors must have a U.S. passport book when traveling domestically in Mexico by air. When you arrive in Mexico, Mexican immigration authorities will determine how long you are authorized to stay.

What happens if I don't microchip my dog?

If your dog isn't microchipped and registered on an approved database, you could be served with a notice ordering you to microchip your dog. You'll have 21 days to do so or you may be liable to pay a £500 fine and could face criminal prosecution.

What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The "7 7 7 rule" for dogs is a puppy socialization guideline, originally by Pat Hastings, suggesting exposing puppies to 7 different people, 7 different locations, and 7 different surfaces/objects/sounds/challenges (variations exist) by about 7 weeks old to build confidence, resilience, and prevent fear or anxiety as adults. Key experiences include meeting diverse individuals, visiting different places like a vet's office or friend's house, walking on various substrates (grass, tile, carpet), and encountering new objects and gentle challenges (like tunnels or boxes).
 

Can I keep a dog if it's not microchipped?

All dogs and cats must be microchipped before they're 12 weeks of age, or before they are sold or re-homed. You can be fined $180 (minimum) if your pet isn't microchipped.

Are there any mandatory vaccines for Mexico?

There are no vaccinations required for entry to Mexico but short-term travellers are recommended to receive vaccination cover for Tetanus (childhood booster), Typhoid (food and water-borne) and Hepatitis A (food & water borne) For those undertaking a trekking holiday (or those who will live in the region for some ...

Which dog vaccines are absolutely necessary?

Absolutely necessary dog vaccines (core vaccines) protect against deadly, common diseases and include Rabies, Canine Distemper (D), Adenovirus (Hepatitis - H), Parainfluenza (P), and Parvovirus (P), often combined as DHPP or DAPP, plus Leptospirosis, depending on location/risk. These are essential for all dogs due to the severity and prevalence of these illnesses, with Rabies often legally required.

Does my dog need a microchip to travel internationally?

If your pet is traveling internationally (or to certain US regions), they will be required to have a microchip. Nearly every country requires pets to be implanted with a microchip prior to entry into the country.

What is the alternative to microchipping a dog?

One of the most common alternatives to microchipping is the use of traditional ID tags. These tags are attached to your pet's collar and typically include their name, your contact information, and any pertinent medical details.

What is the 7 second rule for dogs?

The "7-second rule" for dogs is a simple test to see if pavement is too hot for their paws: press the back of your hand to the ground for seven seconds, and if it's too hot for you to hold comfortably, it's too hot for your dog's paw pads, which can easily burn on surfaces like asphalt, concrete, and even artificial turf. This helps prevent paw burns by prompting you to walk during cooler times (early morning/late evening) or stick to grass, as tarmac can get extremely hot even on moderately warm days.
 

What is required to bring a dog into Mexico?

To take your dog to Mexico, you'll generally need proof of a current rabies vaccination, a vet-issued health certificate (often within 15 days of travel, though some sources say not needed from US), and potentially other routine vaccinations like distemper, with all documents carried in their original form, plus potential airline rules and recent screwworm concerns requiring APHIS certification if returning to the US after Mexico travel. 

What are the chances of getting rabies in Mexico?

In 2019, Mexico got a big thumbs-up from the World Health Organization (WHO). They declared the country free of human rabies transmitted by dogs. Five years later, Mexico is still upholding this achievement.

How hard is it to bring a dog back from Mexico?

Coming Home With Dogs

You need to provide a certificate of rabies vaccination obtained within 12 months of your trip, but no less than 30 days prior to re-entry into the U.S. After presenting the document, your dog will have to pass a physical examination as well.

Can I buy a plane seat for my dog?

Yes, some airlines allow you to buy an extra seat for your dog's carrier, but most require small pets to stay in their carrier under the seat in front of you for the whole flight, while a few niche options like JSX Airlines permit larger dogs in purchased seats, leashed on the floor. It's crucial to check your airline's specific pet policy as rules vary, but generally, if you buy a seat, the carrier goes on that seat for takeoff/landing and then into the foot space, though some (like Alaska Airlines or JetBlue) allow the carrier on the seat during flight.

What papers do I need for my dog to travel?

Dogs and Cats

• Health certificates. ...
• Pregnant animals and health certificates. ...
• Rabies vaccination certification. ...
• Breed verification form. ...
• Temperature acclimation documentation. ...
• Customer acknowledgement form.

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