After a few trips to México with friends and family for much-needed vet care, I realized that many people could benefit from this information.
Below, you'll find the exact steps I take to get our animals across the border and back in the safest, most efficient way possible.
Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian or border specialist. This is simply what I do and what has worked for me in the past. Proceed with caution and do your own research. Also, I am specifically referring to dogs, cats, and Mexico; any other animals or countries will require additional due diligence on your part.
Pre-Trip Planning
Currently, the requirements for dogs and cats differ. Here is what the CDC states regarding cats:
"Cats are not required to have proof of rabies vaccination for importation into the United States. However, CDC recommends that all cats be vaccinated against rabies, and your U.S. destination may have additional requirements."
Nonetheless, why take any chances? I take the same steps to protect my cat as I would my dog:
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Ensure your pet's vaccines, especially rabies, are up to date, and bring proof with you.
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Microchip your pet.
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For dogs: Register on the CDC website.
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Contact a veterinarian before your arrival. Make sure they understand your pet's needs and schedule an appointment.
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Use Google Maps or another navigation app to ensure a smooth trip. I recommend purchasing a travel eSIM card from a provider like Maya Mobile, which has worked well for me in both the United Kingdom and Mexico.
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Ensure your car has up-to-date registration and insurance. Keep this information handy.
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A state-issued ID is sufficient for border crossing, but I always feel safer carrying my passport.
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Vapes became illegal in Mexico in late 2024—leave those at home!
On Your Way
As of now, gas seems to be less expensive closer to the border, at least from my perspective in California.
My favorite place to stop is Love's Travel Stop—it's big, clean, has plenty of restrooms, and offers a fenced area where dogs can stretch their legs and relieve themselves. Doggie bags and trash cans are provided, so please clean up after your fur baby.
Love's Travel Stop
551 W Main St, Westmoreland, CA 92281
Other options include:
Costco
2030 N Imperial Ave, El Centro, CA 92243
Packing Essentials:
Water
Pet bowls
Pet food
Puppy pads
Gloves
Trash bags
Leash
Antibacterial hand gel
Paper towels
Wet wipes
In México
Upon arrival in México, I go straight to the veterinarian. This is the one I visit for dogs and cats:
Veterinaria Dr. Acosta
Electricistas #1535 Col. Libertad, Mexicali, B.C.
📞 686-141-6693
📞 686-152-9829
Note: This vet does not have restroom access, so plan accordingly.
Pharmacy
Often, I need to pick up prescriptions from a pharmacy. Mexicali has plenty, including Similares and Benavides. Similares pharmacies sell off-brand medications at lower prices.
If you need an animal-specific pharmacy, your vet should be able to refer you but this is the one I visit:
El Rodeo
Cjon. Lazaro Cardenas 497, Ex-Ejido Coahuila, 21360 Mexicali, B.C., Mexico
📞 868-176-6115
💡 Mexican prescriptions are not accepted in the U.S., so pick up everything before heading back.
Food
While waiting for the animals or after our vet visit, I like to grab some tacos. My favorite spots include:
Asadero Acatlán
Independencia 697, Esperanza, 21140 Mexicali, B.C., Mexico
Tacos Yubbys
Blvd. Benito Juárez 4001, Las Palmas, 21370 Mexicali, B.C., Mexico
Other options nearby include Applebee's, Starbucks, and Burger King.
Money
Cash is the most useful, but Visa and Mastercard debit/credit cards are accepted at most places. So far, my Discover card has not been accepted anywhere outside the U.S.
Returning Home
Congratulations! You're in the final leg of this mission. You're likely exhausted by now, but remember—your cat doesn't care about your pain. 😆
Border Crossing
There's no way to predict the border wait time—it could be four hours or four minutes. Be prepared. Have your identification ready and follow border patrol instructions.
There are three types of lanes:
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Regular Lane (All Traffic)
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Ready Lane (For travelers with RFID-enabled documents)
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SENTRI Lane (For pre-approved, low-risk travelers)
💡 Unless you are authorized to use Ready or SENTRI lanes, do NOT enter them. You could be fined. Stick to the Regular Lane unless you're approved for the others.
Home Safe
Once you're home, relax and follow any aftercare instructions your vet provided.
Keep in mind that regulations can change suddenly. I’ll try my best to keep this article updated, but always check the CDC website and local government policies before traveling with pets.
Pet Transport Services
If you're unable to transport your pet yourself, I offer a pet transport service.
📩 Reach out via our Contact Us page or email IneffableKitty@gmail.com to see if you're a good candidate for our services or for further inquiries.
🐾 Your pet’s journey should be safe, smooth, and stress-free—let’s make it happen together!