Pet Travel
Pet Travel Checklist (U.S. Domestic Travel) for all Pets
At least 2 months Before You Go: (Make is 8 months if traveling to Hawaii)
1. Check destination state requirements
Domestic (state‑to‑state) entry may require specific vaccinations or certificates (e.g., for Hawaii).
2. Check Airline Requirements
Google “pet travel requirements” for your specific Airline
3. Visit your veterinarian
- Get a general Health Check and updated vaccinations.
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Get a Prescription for any Parasite protection medication that might be appropriate to your destination (Heartworm, Fleas, Ticks, etc)
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See
https://capcvet.org/articles/2025-annual-pet-parasite-forecasts/
for maps of Parasite-borne (mosquitoes, ticks, fleas) diseases in your areas of travel - Ask about Calming Medications if your pet might need them
-
See
- Get a health certificate if your destination or Airlines requires one
4. Microchip & ID
Ensure your pet has a microchip and your contact info is current.
5. Plan for the mode of travel
- By car: bring water, food, restraint/crate, breaks for exercise.
- By plane: check airline pet policies, fees, crate rules, and whether pets travel in cabin or cargo.
6. Carrier/Crate prep
Pet should be comfortable with travel gear ahead of time.
Dog Import Checklist (Mexico → United States)
Cats and other pet mammals have no specific Import requirements into US from Mexico. Some reptiles and other animals, including bats, have special requirements.
1. Verify Eligibility
Dog must be at least 6 months old
2. CDC Dog Import Form
- Complete online before travel
https://survey.1cdp.cdc.gov/?form=556bcb90-1bca-4b01-8094-ad22a7169c32 - Each dog requires its own form
- Print receipt or have digital copy ready for inspection
3. Microchip
- Dog must have a readable microchip
- Ensure microchip number matches travel documents
4. Screwworm Inspection & Certificate
- Visit an authorized veterinarian in Mexico within 5 days before departure
- Vet must confirm dog is free from screwworm
- Certificate must include:
- Dog identification (breed, age, sex, color)
- Date of inspection
- Statement dog is free of screwworm
- Authorized veterinarian signature
5. Health Check done by you. May be verified during an inspection at the Border or prior to allowing on an Airline
Dog must appear healthy and able to walk normally
6. Airline Requirements
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Check with your Airline for:
- Crate size & type
- Bathroom breaks and facilities at lay-over destinations
- Health certificate (usually required within 10 days of travel)
- Any additional paperwork
7. Prepare for Border Inspection
- Have CDC receipt of CDC Dog Import Form and screwworm certificate ready
- Dog on leash or in carrier
- Be ready to answer questions about travel history, vaccination status, and health
8. Arrival
- Present documents to Border Patrol or APHIS officers
- Dog may be inspected visually for health or screwworm
- Any issues could result in quarantine or denied entry
Optional but Recommended:
- Rabies vaccination (even if not required for low-risk countries)
- General health & parasite prevention / treatment records (Heartworm, Flea/ Tick Prevention medications)