Pets in Mexico

Bringing Your Pet to Mexico

First of all, don't panic. This won't be a nightmare. All one needs to do in order to bring their pet into Mexico is a bit of paperwork. Two bits of paperwork to be exact:

1. A vaccination certificate stating that your pet has been vaccinated against rabies, hepatitis, pip and leptospirosis.
2. An official health certificate that must be issued by a veterinarian no more than 72 hours before entering Mexico.

You may enter the country with up to two large pets (dogs or cats). If you want to enter the country with any more than two pets you will need permission, which can be obtained from the Mexican consulate nearest you. In any case, it would be a good idea to go to a Mexican consulate before you leave on your trip to inform them of your plans.

You will be relieved to know that there is no quarantine period required for bringing a pet into Mexico. You must note that airlines have certain restrictions on pet weight and pet size, as well as on pet containers. Furthermore, it would be a good idea to make travel plans well in advance.

Living with Your Pet in Mexico

Before renting an apartment or a house, make sure you know whether or not pets are prohibited. Many apartments in Mexico either prohibit certain types of pets or set stringent restrictions on the size and weight of the pet—especially where dogs are concerned. Restrictions can also apply to cats, so make sure you sort out the details before signing a contract or lease agreement. It would also be a good idea to include a clause in your contract stating that you have the right to break the lease without any penalties should any changes in the rules occur during your tenancy.

Once these legal issues are dealt with, owning a pet need not be too much of a hassle in Mexico. Household help is easy to come by, and domestic helpers can see to much of the pet's needs. Indeed, most dogs you see being taken on walks are rarely with their owners but rather with household helpers.

Another good point is that parks are plentiful throughout Mexico City, especially in the Roma, Condesa, Lomas areas, and also in the south of the city around Pedregal and San Angel. Often one will not have to go far to find a park. On another note, a dog can also provide excellent home security, merely by its presence in the home.

Return to top