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Air Travel with Dog to Mexico

25 10:09:30

Question
I want to take my 3 lb Yorkie, Daisy, as a carry on when I fly to Cancun in June. Then I will take the bus or rent a car to Majahual Mexico.  I will be staying in Majahual for 2-3 weeks at the home of my son.  Is this safe for my dog?  What can I expect from customs, etc. never having done this before?  Thx

Answer
Dear Deanna
You sound like a VERY adventurous person.  More power to you
Where will you depart USA from?  You would need to check
with the particular airline to see if a pet can go as
carry on.  May only be able to go as checked baggage.
I would not be surprised that the bus line would allow
pets, as they often carry chickens, goats, etc!!
You or your son should check out the bus line in advance.
Car rental would be best, I think.  Check with Mexican
consulate near you as to latest requirements.  I am sure
they will require at least APHIS 7001 international health
cert issued within 10 days of flight and endorsed by usda.
Also, a rabies vaccination at least 30 days old and less
than 1 year.  They may require Mexican visa. This changes
from time to time.  You would need to get another health
cert from a Mexican veterinarian for the return as your
original h.c. will expire after 10 days.  It is possible
this would not be enforced if you tried to use the original
U.S. h.c. but you should not take any chances.
Now.  With the possible extreme heat in the area you are
going at that time of year, I would hesitate to take the
dog.  If you do, do NOT allow him/her to drink the water!!
Use bottled water at ALL times, for the dog and yourself.
Please let me know what you decide to do, and if I can be
of any further assistance.
Regards, Jerry Mishler
p.s.  You should have no problem re-entering USA.  Hang
on to the h.c. and in particular your rabies certs.
I also advise microchip, even though it may not be required.
Great for all I.D. purposes.
Also, do NOT feed dog for several hours prior to ANY travel.
Some water is fine.  Exercise well before travel.
Jerry
I'm sorry.  I must be tired.  Be sure dog has ALL
vaccinations up to date.  Also recommend heartworm treatment
before departure.  
Jerry