Traveling to Mexico doesn’t mean you have to leave your beloved pets behind. If you’re planning to bring your dog or cat from the United States to Mexico, it’s crucial to understand the current regulations for animal entry. As of December 16, 2019, the landscape of pet travel to Mexico changed, making it simpler in some ways, but still requiring careful attention to detail upon arrival. This guide will walk you through the essentials for bringing your animal to Mexico, focusing on the necessary inspections and requirements at the border.
Understanding the SENASICA Inspection Process
Upon entering Mexico with your dog(s) or cat(s), you will encounter the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA), part of SENASICA (Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria). It’s important to head to this office upon arrival. Here, official personnel will conduct a physical inspection of your pet to ensure they meet Mexico’s animal health standards. This inspection is straightforward, but understanding what they are looking for will ensure a smooth entry. The SENASICA officers will verify several key aspects of your pet’s health:
- Absence of Infectious Diseases: The primary concern is to prevent the introduction of infectious and contagious diseases into Mexico. Officers will visually assess your pet for any apparent signs of illness.
- Freedom from Ectoparasites: Your pet must be free of external parasites such as ticks and fleas. If any ectoparasites are detected during the inspection, the process may become more involved. If parasites are found, you will be required to contact a veterinarian (any veterinarian is acceptable) to administer appropriate treatment. In the case of ticks, SENASICA personnel will take samples for laboratory diagnosis to confirm they are not exotic to Mexico or related to any ongoing Animal Health Programs within the country. Your animal might be held at the OISA until the parasites are confirmed to be non-exotic. Any costs associated with treatment or quarantine are the responsibility of the pet owner.
- No Open Wounds: Inspectors will check that your pet does not have any fresh wounds or wounds that are still in the healing process.
Additional Requirements and Important Information for Pet Owners
Beyond the basic health checks, there are a few other points to keep in mind when traveling with your animal to Mexico:
- Pets Under Veterinary Treatment: If your pet is currently being treated for skin conditions like mange (mites), fungal infections (dermatomycosis), dermatophylosis, or similar skin lesions, you should present official documentation to SENASICA personnel. This documentation must be on letterhead from a licensed veterinarian, including their professional registration number (or equivalent). A copy of the veterinarian’s professional registration can also be included. This documentation should detail the diagnosis and the treatment plan prescribed by the veterinarian.
- Compliance with Other Authorities: Meeting SENASICA’s requirements does not exempt you from complying with any other regulations or paperwork required by other Mexican authorities.
- Carrier Conditions: If your pet’s carrier is found to be dirty, or contains prohibited items like bedding (newspaper, wood shavings, etc.), toys, or food products (beyond what is immediately necessary), it will be disinfected. Prohibited items inside the carrier will be removed and destroyed.
- Pet Food Allowance: Only a limited amount of pet food is allowed – specifically, only the portion needed to feed your animal on the day of arrival.
These regulations apply specifically to domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) and domestic cats (Felis catus).
Frequent Traveler Note: For those who regularly travel between the U.S. and Mexico with their dogs, SENASICA offers a “Pet Program – Frequent Traveler”. Enrolling in this program might streamline future border crossings. For more information, you can contact SENASICA directly at the provided phone numbers: 59051000 ext. 53611, 54326 and 51020, (0155) 43130154; 43130155 and 43130152.
Key Takeaways for Bringing Animals to Mexico
In conclusion, while a health certificate is no longer required for dogs and cats entering Mexico from the United States, be prepared for a SENASICA inspection upon arrival. Ensuring your pet is healthy, free of parasites, and that you have any necessary veterinary documentation will help ensure a hassle-free entry into Mexico for you and your furry companion. Always check the official SENASICA website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date regulations before your travel date, as policies can change.
