Quick Answer
Yes. Dogs and cats can enter Mexico with a health certificate issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 72 hours of travel, proof of current rabies vaccination, and a general certificate of good health. No quarantine is required. The process is straightforward. Mexico is very pet-friendly — most communities and many restaurants welcome pets.
Detailed Answer
Bringing your pets to Mexico is straightforward and quarantine-free. Dogs and cats require a health certificate issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 72 hours of travel (or 10 days for air travel), proof of a current rabies vaccination (administered at least 15 days but no more than 12 months prior), and a general certificate of good health. Mexico's SENASICA (agricultural agency) may inspect these documents upon arrival, though enforcement at SJD airport is typically quick and routine.
Mexico — and Cabo in particular — is an extremely pet-friendly destination. Most residential communities welcome pets (though some HOAs have breed or size restrictions worth verifying before purchase), many restaurants have outdoor patios where dogs are welcome, and veterinary care is excellent and affordable. A routine vet visit costs $20-$40, vaccinations $10-$20 each, and emergency care at clinics like Cabo Pet Hospital is available 24/7. Expats with pets consistently report that the lifestyle here is wonderful for their animals, with beaches, trails, and outdoor spaces to enjoy year-round.
If you are driving to Cabo rather than flying, the process is even simpler — border inspections of pet documents are rare for personal vehicles crossing into Baja. Our team has helped many pet-owning families make the transition smoothly. Contact us for relocation tips, or explore more lifestyle topics in our FAQ hub.