WASHINGTON DC — U.S. pet owners planning to travel across the southern border with their companion animals must navigate specific entry protocols set by Mexican agricultural authorities and the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
While Mexico streamlined its process for pet dogs and cats—eliminating the requirement for a standard U.S. health certificate for routine companion entries—travelers must still present their pets to the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development (SENASICA) at Mexican border entry points.
Upon arrival at the Agricultural and Livestock Health Inspection Office (OISA), SENASICA officials perform a mandatory physical inspection of dogs and cats. Inspectors verify that animals are free of infectious diseases, show no signs of ectoparasites like ticks or fleas, and have no fresh or unhealed wounds.
Pet owners are required to ensure travel carriers are clean. If carriers contain disposable bedding, wood shavings, toys, or unapproved food, officials will mandate a disinfection process and destroy non-compliant contents. Only a single day’s portion of balanced pet food is permitted for entry. Pets exhibiting skin conditions or undergoing medical treatment must be accompanied by an official veterinary diagnostic report and treatment prescription.
Travelers should also note heightened biosecurity measures. Officials warn that Mexico maintains strict regulations regarding the New World screwworm parasite. Dogs returning to or entering from areas under screwworm advisories are subject to additional health certifications and inspections to protect livestock populations. Furthermore, non-standard pets—such as birds, ferrets, or commercial livestock—do not fall under simplified companion pet rules and require USDA-endorsed international health certificates issued by an accredited veterinarian through the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS).
APHIS advises travelers to verify entry requirements well before departure, as animal health protocols and border regulations are subject to update based on emerging pest and disease risks.
Source: USDA
