Job Discussion Forums

FoxandMe · Joined: 17 Nov 2005 Posts: 62

Does anyone know what the standard import fee is for bringing a pet into the country? I haven't been able to find a cost online and it's not easy getting someone on the phone from the Mexican Consulate from my area. One airline I spoke with suggested getting a broker to help with the import fee, to make sure that I'm not charged anything outrageous at customs. Is there anything that can be done before arriving to be prepared against this, or is it just quick thinking and smooth talking once a situation comes up? My question could be opened up to any and all fees that gringos might find themselves charged with...

Samantha · Joined: 25 Oct 2003 Posts: 2038 Location: Mexican Riviera

There is no import fee, at least I didn't pay one. You need to obtain a veterinarian's certificate of good health to bring your pet across the border, issued no more than 72 hours prior to your crossing.

cwc · Joined: 16 Nov 2005 Posts: 372

fox, you�ve been working on this trip with the dog as your leading concern for over 2 months. Now, right before the trip, you are worried about a fee for it. I would suggest calling the airport you are flying into and speak with customs. Maybe the school can help you out and go/call customs for you. How much can it cost to bring a dog to Mexico? Remember NOT to tell them your situation is permanent. You are a tourist that can�t live without his dog. Normally, they don�t mess with tourists.

cwc · Joined: 16 Nov 2005 Posts: 372

Samantha, Thanks for helping Fox. He really needed it. The dog is his principle concern and just now he is checking on his entry requirements.

Fox, you aren�t importing him. He is a tourist.

Johnny T.

Samantha, you have me worried. I myself am taking my dog to Mexico and was planning on getting a certificate from the vet. that says all his vaccinations are up to date, etc. But, how do I get from Canada to the Mexican border in under 72 hours (driving)? I was planning on taking at least a week. I hope they are flexible about the 72 hour rule - especially with my 17 year old dog, who on bad days doesn't really look the picture of health! (don't tell him I said that)

Samantha · Joined: 25 Oct 2003 Posts: 2038 Location: Mexican Riviera

Johnny, if you are driving across they likely won't ask to see it anyway. If you were flying in with him, as I did mine, they definitely ask. But I have driven with a friend who had a dog once and they were happy to send us on our way with no paperwork checks. I have heard that numerous times from others too. Don't worry, the worst that can happen is that you have to visit a vet in the border town for a new signature and date.

Johnny T. · Posted: Mon Apr 24, 2006 3:09 am Post subject: dog on the border

Thanks Samantha. By the way, I didn't thank you personally on the "apostillizing" thread for providing the link for the Canadian info. Could you have a look at my question just posted there and I'll look forward to seeing if you have any answer to the "FM3 and crossing the border with more than just a dog" quandary. Thanks again.