Pet Care in Los Cabos: A Guide for Expats
Moving to Los Cabos from California, Texas or Arizona with your dog or cat? Good news: Los Cabos is very pet-friendly, many gated communities allow pets, and there are veterinary clinics in both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Here is what you need to know before you move, and before you travel back to the U.S. with your pet.
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This is the part that surprises most owners. To bring a dog from Mexico into the U.S., you currently need:
| Requirement | What it means |
| Screwworm certificate | Signed in Mexico by a SENASICA-authorized vet, within 5 days before you travel |
| CDC Dog Import Form | Filled out online, keep the receipt |
| Microchip | Required |
| Age | At least 6 months old |
⚠️ Plan ahead: these rules apply even to U.S. dogs returning from a vacation in Cabo. Book the certificate with an authorized vet before your trip home. Rules change often, so confirm with USDA and CDC before you travel. Right now the screwworm certificate applies to dogs, not cats.
Not sure which area fits your lifestyle? See Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods in Los Cabos.
Yes. Many gated communities, restaurants and some hotels welcome pets. Always check the specific rules.
A recent health certificate and rabies vaccination record. Your pet will be checked by SENASICA when you arrive.
A screwworm certificate signed by a SENASICA-authorized vet in Mexico, the CDC Dog Import Form receipt, a microchip, and your dog must be at least 6 months old.
Yes. Keep your pet on year-round tick and flea prevention.
Looking for a pet-friendly home in Los Cabos?
Tell us about your pets and your budget, and we will show you homes and communities where they are welcome.
Source: USDA APHIS and CDC dog import requirements (screwworm certification and CDC Dog Import Form, as of 2026); SENASICA pet entry rules; local experience of Karla & Erick | Cabo Realty. Pet travel rules change often, so confirm with USDA, CDC, SENASICA and your airline before traveling.
Disclaimer: Karla & Erick | Cabo Realty provides educational content about communities, lifestyle and real estate in Los Cabos. We are MLS members and operate under the brokerage Century 21 Paradise Properties. This is general information, not veterinary or legal advice.
Karla & Erick | Cabo Realty | Century 21 Paradise Properties
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