Returning To USA With Pets

Will my pets have to be quarantined when returning to the US from Mexico?

According to the Pets and Wildlife Division of US Customs, all domestic pets once taken out of the US are subject to the same requirements upon returning as pets entering the US for the first time. This may involve quarantine. To find out more, read on…

How will I know if my pet is going to be quarantined?

Pet dogs and cats will be examined at the first port of entry into the US for any sign of diseases that could be transmitted to other animals or humans. Dogs and cats that are entering the US from Mexico must have a valid rabies certification.

My family is planning to stay in Mexico for a long time. What happens if my pet's vaccinations run out while we're there?

You must have proof that your pet has been vaccinated at some time between 12 months and 1 month prior to your re-entry. If your pet does not have proof of a valid rabies vaccination when re-entering the US, or if the vaccination took place within the thirty days prior to your re-entry, US Customs will quarantine your pet at the place of your choosing until a full 30 days have passed since the actual vaccination took place.

If your pet has not been vaccinated at all for rabies and distemper within the past calendar year, it can only be re-admitted to the US if it is quarantined immediately upon re-entry at the place of your choosing. You must get it vaccinated within four days of its arrival at your final destination, but no more than 10 days after its arrival at the port of entry (border). It will then need to stay in quarantine for a full 30 days.

Importation of dogs and cats into the US is regulated by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). According to the CDC, all domestic cats and dogs must show no evidence of disease that can be communicable to humans at the port of entry.

Even if all of your paperwork is in order, if your dog or cat does not look like it is in good health, further examination by a licensed vet (at your expense!) will be necessary before your dog or cat is allowed to re-enter the US!

Will I have to pay a re-entry fee for my pets?

Thank goodness, some good news! There is no "duty" or fee for dogs or cats re-entering the US.