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– Whether traveling with a pet for companionship, service or comfort, animal lovers will find that Puerto Vallarta’s welcoming atmosphere, along with its many pet-friendly services, beaches and hotels, make it a great place to bring along four-legged friends. Bringing your pet to Puerto Vallarta isn’t particularly difficult, however, starting August 1, 2024, new guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will affect anyone traveling to the United States with dogs. These rules aim to ensure the health and safety of dogs and people alike.

All dogs entering the U.S. must meet several requirements.



Firstly, dogs must be at least six months old and have an International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip. This microchip must be implanted before any required rabies vaccination, and its number must be included on all necessary forms and veterinary records. Additionally, dogs must appear healthy upon arrival.

If a dog appears unhealthy or is suspected of carrying a contagious disease, it may need to undergo isolation, a veterinary examination, and additional testing at the importer’s expense. A key requirement is the CDC Dog Import Form. This form should ideally be completed online 2-10 days before arrival, though it can be filled out right before travel if internet access is available.

Importers must ensure all information on the form is accurate at the time of arrival, including the port of entry. This form also requires a .

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