Starting August 1, 2024, crossing the border with the United States with your pet involves meeting new requirements established by US authorities. Among the new rules is the obligation to implant an identification microchip for all dogs entering the country.
This chip, the size of a grain of rice, is inserted under the animal’s skin and contains vital information such as the owner’s name, contact details, and vaccination history. Its main objective is to guarantee the safety and well-being of pets, facilitating their identification in case of loss or misplacement.
In addition to the microchip, US authorities require that dogs be at least six months old, in good health, and have a valid rabies vaccination certificate. Additionally, owners must complete an online canine importation form before crossing the border.
In Tijuana, one of the busiest border points, more than 50 registered veterinary clinics offer microchip implantation services. These establishments have the necessary certification and use specialized equipment to perform the procedure quickly and safely. The implant cost can vary depending on the dog size and the clinic, ranging between 300 and 1000 Mexican pesos.
Local authorities are confident that this new measure will not significantly affect the flow of travelers and veterinary tourism, which has experienced a boom in the city. They expect that, with time, pet owners will adapt to these changes and procedures.
It is important to note that US authorities will be more rigorous in reviewing documents and inspecting pets at border crossing points. Dogs lacking the established requirements will not be allowed to enter the United States.
TYT Newsroom
