Tips for relocating with your pet

Plan ahead

• Purchase a pet ID tag with your new address and telephone number and put them on your pet right before the move. 
• It is a requirement to have a microchip for your pet to enter Mexico. The microchip used should comply with ISO Standard 11784 or Annex A to ISO standard 1178.
• Find a veterinarian at your new location.
• Select a pet transport company that specializes in pet transfers. Crown can provide recommendations.

Prepare your pet

• Maintain a normal routine and stay on the same feeding and walking schedule before and after the move.
• Help nervous pets become more at ease. Prior to the move, put moving boxes inside in plain sight; move them around so the sound becomes familiar.
• A few weeks before the move, gradually re-familiarize them to their carrier/crate by putting it in the open with a couple of their toys inside, then put in a treat a day or so later and eventually place their meals inside the open carrier. Soon they’ll eat their meals in the carrier with the door shut. Small pets can be carried around in the carrier or taken for a short drive. Reward your pet with treats and playtime afterward.

Importing Pets

• Vet Health Certificate (Form 7001): This is the standard Health Certificate to be filled out by your USDA accredited Veterinarian.  Must be issued within 10 days of the flight. Certification by Mexican consular authorities is not required for the health or vaccination certificate. A permit fee is charged at the time of entry into Mexico.
• Rabies Vaccination and Certificate: All pets entering and in Mexico must have an original Rabies Certificate signed by the vet.
• It is suggested that dogs have been vaccinated for Distemper, Hepatitis, Leptospirosis, and Parvovirus. Cats are suggested to have the following vaccinations: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP).

On moving day

• Either leave your pet with a friend, sitter or boarding facility or keep them in a quiet room with soft music playing and the door shut. 
• Bring in their favorite blanket and toys and fresh water and put a sign on the door so your pet isn’t accidentally let out.
• Some movers prefer to not have pets around during packing due to liability reasons, so check with them beforehand.

Settling into your new place

• Let your pet explore their new surroundings. Initially, your pet may want to stay close to the family. Don’t isolate your pet in a room by themselves; this can cause them to develop anxiety and discomfort.
• Place bedding, toys, food, and water in similar spots in your new home as they were in your previous location. If the food bowls were by the kitchen door in your old place, keep them by the kitchen door in your new home.
• If the new location has steps, but your previous one did not help your pet by gently guiding them up and down the staircase one step at a time using a leash if necessary. Reward your pet with plenty of praise and encouragement until it becomes second nature.