Can I Bring My Dog or Cat to Mérida?
Good news for movers: Mexico is one of the easiest countries to enter with a pet. The harder part is the airline — and, if you ever go back, getting a dog into the US.
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What does Mexico require to bring in a pet?
Less than most people expect. To bring a dog or cat into Mexico from the US or Canada as of 2026, the core requirements are: a current rabies vaccination (pets under three months are exempt), documented treatment for internal and external parasites within the six months before arrival, and a completed SENASICA import inspection form (the animal-health form filled out at the airport). Mexico dropped the mandatory health certificate years ago, and there is no quarantine for healthy pets that meet the paperwork.
Two more facts that surprise newcomers: up to three pets per traveler enter without a paid import permit (the inspection itself is free), and there is no Mexican microchip requirement to enter. SENASICA simply inspects your pet at the airport to confirm it looks healthy and parasite-free, and you're through. Because details do change, verify the current checklist on the official SENASICA page (linked below) before booking — and bring vaccination records regardless.
Tip: Even though Mexico no longer demands a health certificate, many airlines do. Get a vet exam close to departure so you have one in hand — it covers both the airline and any edge-case inspection.
What do airlines charge — and in-cabin vs cargo?
The airline, not the Mexican government, is where the cost and the rules tighten. Expect pet fees in the rough range of US$150–500 depending on carrier, route, and whether your pet flies in-cabin (small dogs and cats under a carrier that fits beneath the seat) or as checked/cargo (larger animals). Each airline sets its own carrier dimensions, temperature embargoes (relevant in Mérida's hot months), and breed restrictions, so read your specific airline's pet policy before you book — not after.
For an in-cabin trip you'll need a soft carrier that meets the under-seat size limits; an airline-approved pet carrier ordered ahead of time saves a scramble. Direct flights into Mérida (MID) from US hubs like Houston, Dallas and Miami make the journey shorter and reduce connection stress for the animal — handy context in the relocation checklist.
What about bringing a dog back to the US later?
This is the direction that catches people out, so plan for it now. Since the CDC's updated rules (2024–2025), every dog entering the US — including US dogs coming home from Mexico — must be at least 6 months old, microchipped, and accompanied by a submitted CDC Dog Import Form. There are also screwworm-related export steps from Mexico, and rabies-vaccination documentation must be on the correct current form. Cats are far easier coming back — no CDC import form, no microchip mandate, no screwworm certificate.
None of this should stop you bringing a dog to Mérida — it's about being ready for an eventual return or a vet-trip across the border. Microchip your dog before you leave the US (it's required for re-entry anyway), keep digital copies of all records, and check the CDC and APHIS pages (below) close to any return date, because these requirements have changed more than once.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a quarantine to bring my pet to Mexico?
No. Healthy dogs and cats that meet the documentation — rabies vaccination, parasite treatment, and the SENASICA inspection form — enter Mexico without any quarantine period.
Do I need an import permit or health certificate for a pet in Mexico?
For up to three pets, no paid import permit is required and the SENASICA inspection is free. Mexico also dropped the mandatory health certificate — but many airlines still ask for one, so get a recent vet exam anyway. Verify current rules before flying.
How much does it cost to fly a pet to Mérida?
Most of the cost is the airline pet fee, roughly US$150–500 depending on carrier, route, and cabin vs cargo. Mexico's own entry process is essentially free for up to three pets. Add a vet visit and an approved carrier to your budget.
Is it hard to bring a dog back to the US from Mexico?
It's more involved than the trip down. Under current CDC rules a returning dog must be at least 6 months old, microchipped, and have a submitted CDC Dog Import Form, plus screwworm-related export steps from Mexico. Cats face none of that. Check CDC and APHIS guidance close to travel.