If you’re traveling with your pet to or from Puerto Vallarta, here’s the latest scoop on the updated CDC rules that took effect on August 1, 2024. Plus, some helpful tips to make the journey stress-free for you and your furry friend.
What’s Required for Entry to the US?
The CDC now requires:
- Microchip: Your pet needs a readable microchip (any type works). If they don’t have one yet, it’s a fast and easy process, so don’t fret. Ask a vet.
- Age: Pets must be at least six months old.
- Online Form: Fill out the CDC’s online form before travel.
- Screw Woom: You need a certificate signed by a full-time salaried veterinary official within 5 days of travel to clear your pet’s passage into the US. For more information from the USDA, go here.
What’s Smart to Have?
These extras aren’t officially required but are highly recommended to avoid any hiccups:
- Rabies Vaccine: Bring proof, including the tag and a signed certificate from your vet.
- Health Certificate: Some airlines insist on this, and pets have been refused boarding without it.
- Good Looks: Your pet must look and appear to be healthy. So, schedule and stock up on all the necessary things and prevention checkups before you travel.
Where to Get a Microchip Or Good Veterinarian Care in Puerto Vallarta
Need a microchip for your pet while you’re in town or a vet in case of an incident? Here are a few options.
Pet Friends Veterinary Clinic Púlpito 196
Veterinaria Mascotas Puerto Vallarta Calle Quimixto #613
Veterinaria Wolf’s Milan #301-A
Clínica Veterinaria Sabuesos Colombia 1198
Centro Medico Veteranario Avenida Gobernador Prisciliano Sánchez
What Airlines Are Pet-Friendly?
It’s important to note that while the CDC creates the guidelines, airlines can create their own guidelines and rules, so always check first with your airline company for the most up-to-date guidelines. The good news: So far, all airlines flying between Puerto Vallarta and the US have kept their pet policies the same under the new rules. Alaska Airlines has the most pet-friendly policies. Most dogs registered as service animals are allowed in-cabin. This depends on weight and will increase your flight expenses. (Service Animals under 13 pounds or 6 kg.)
Pro Tips:
- Book your pet’s spot as soon as possible. Spaces are sometimes limited, and not all planes can accommodate pets.
- Some restrictions during the hotter months prevent pets in cargo areas due to extreme heat.
NOTE: This article is not comprehensive. There are specific rules for certain types of pets or breeds, which change frequently, so it’s essential to start with your airline’s requirements, then the CDC and USDA for any recent changes.
A Final Word of Advice
Even though airline staff or customs agents don’t always check every document (inconsistency is often the most consistent thing in Mexico), don’t risk it—make sure your pet has all the required paperwork in place to avoid any last-minute surprises. Here’s an excellent resource for owners traveling with their pets for the first time.
Do you have tips or personal experiences to share about traveling with pets? We’d love to hear them! Email us at article@pveverything.com, and your story could be featured on PV Everything!
Attributions: This content was gathered based on the most common questions asked and answered on our private Facebook group. We want to thank Angela Kelleher, who’s consistently sharing reliable tips about pets and her work with the Cuale Spay Neuter Clinics. You can learn more here to donate to a 501c3 who is doing good work in Vallarta.
