This is the direction with the new rules. Read before you head home.

Last updated: July 2026

Going into Mexico with your pet is easy. Coming home is where the recent changes are — and where most of the online confusion lives. Dogs and cats are treated very differently, so here's each.

Dogs: two U.S. agencies to satisfy

1. CDC Dog Import Form (since August 1, 2024)

The CDC updated its dog-import rules on August 1, 2024. Because Mexico is a low-risk country for dog rabies, Rocky Point travelers are on the simpler track. For a dog that's only been in the U.S., Mexico, or Canada, you need:

  • A CDC Dog Import Form receipt — filled out online, free, emailed to you. Print it or show it on your phone. Valid 6 months, reusable for multiple trips (as long as your dog hasn't visited a high-risk country).
  • Dog appears healthy on arrival.
  • Dog is at least 6 months old.
  • Dog is microchipped (universal-scanner readable).

You can do the form the day you travel, but a few days ahead is easier. One form per dog.

2. Screwworm-freedom certificate (new since November 22, 2024)

This is the one catching people off guard. Because of a New World Screwworm outbreak, the USDA (APHIS) classified Mexico as screwworm-affected on November 22, 2024. Since then, every dog entering the U.S. from Mexico — including your own dog just coming home from the beach — needs a screwworm-freedom certificate.

The certificate must state:

  • Your dog was inspected for screwworm within 5 days before crossing, and
  • Your dog is free of screwworm (or was treated and cleared before travel).

It must be signed by a Mexican veterinarian authorized to certify on behalf of the government — SENASICA keeps a directory of authorized vets and clinics. There's no official form; it can be a letter or part of a health certificate. Your paperwork is checked and your dog inspected at the port of entry.

In plain terms: a quick day trip with the dog isn't as simple as it used to be. If your dog goes into Mexico, you technically need that within-5-days certificate from an authorized Mexican vet to bring them back. If you're in Rocky Point often, line up a local authorized vet ahead of time. This rule is tied to an active outbreak, so check that it's still current before every trip.

Cats: much simpler

  • No CDC Dog Import Form — that's dogs only.
  • No federal rabies-proof requirement for cats (though CDC recommends keeping the vaccine current).
  • Your cat just needs to appear healthy on arrival.
  • Some U.S. states or airlines may want a rabies certificate or recent health certificate — carry proof to be safe.
  • The dog screwworm certificate rule doesn't list cats.

Where you cross

Dogs coming home can enter at any U.S. land border crossing, so the Lukeville, AZ crossing works fine. Have your CDC Dog Import Form receipt and (for dogs) the screwworm certificate ready to show. Check current Lukeville port hours before you go — they've changed more than once lately.

Return-trip checklist

DOG:

  • CDC Dog Import Form receipt (free, online, valid 6 months) ✔
  • 6+ months old, microchipped, appears healthy ✔
  • Screwworm-freedom certificate — authorized Mexican vet, inspection within 5 days of crossing ✔

CAT:

  • Appears healthy ✔
  • Rabies certificate handy (recommended) ✔

Official sources (confirm before you travel)

  • CDC — Bringing a Dog into the U.S.: cdc.gov/importation/dogs
  • USDA APHIS — Bringing a Pet Dog into the U.S. (screwworm rule): aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel
  • U.S. CBP — current Lukeville port hours

I'm a Realtor, not a vet or customs officer. These rules change — the screwworm requirement in particular is tied to an active outbreak response. Confirm current requirements with the CDC, USDA APHIS, and a licensed veterinarian before crossing.

— Joseph Sanchez, Team Sanchez · RE/MAX Legacy · Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

About the Author: Joseph Sanchez is an AMPI-certified real estate agent with RE/MAX Legacy and the developer of Viviente at Sandy Beach. He serves as president of Rocky Point Home Builders and is a proud U.S. Veteran. Originally from Chicago and a Southern Illinois University at Carbondale alumnus, Joseph now resides full-time in Puerto Peñasco with his wife and three children for over 15 years. For more information email rockypointrealestate911@gmail.com.