Traveling with Animals

Traveling with Animals at PVR Airport

Traveling with your pets can be a wonderful experience when you’re prepared. At Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), the goal is to make your journey with your furry friends as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re arriving or departing, pet-friendly services are available to meet your needs.

In this section, you’ll find everything you need to know about traveling with pets at PVR, from helpful tips to important travel guidelines. Information about pet relief areas, tips for a comfortable flight, and advice on navigating the airport with your pet is provided. The well-being of your pet is a top priority, and the airport aims to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your companion.

Pet Relief Area

At Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), the comfort of your pet during travel is a top priority. To help make your journey smoother, a convenient Pet Relief Area is available just outside the terminal, at the far end, near the parking lot. This designated space offers a clean and safe environment for your pet to stretch their legs and take care of their needs before or after your flight.

Whether you’re arriving or departing, the pet relief area is easily accessible and designed to ensure your pet’s comfort while navigating the airport. The aim is to make your time at PVR Airport as pleasant as possible for both you and your furry companion.

International Travel with Animals

Requirements for Traveling to Mexico with an Animal

Arriving from the US or Canada

If you’re visiting Mexico, your pet will undergo a physical inspection upon arrival to ensure there are no health risks. A Health Certificate or vaccination record is not required.

Arriving From other Countries

At your point of entry into Mexico, you must contact SENASICA’s official personnel, who will conduct a document review and physical inspection of your pet. To complete this process, you’ll need to provide an original and a simple copy of a Health Certificate issued no more than 15 days before arrival, which must include the following details:

Certification that the animal(s) were treated for internal and external parasites within the past six months and are free of external parasites.
Issued by an official veterinarian from the competent authority or a private veterinarian on letterhead, including their professional license number or a photocopy of it (or its equivalent).
Name and address of the exporter (from the country of origin) and the importer (destination address in Mexico).
Date of rabies vaccination and its validity (pets under three months old are exempt).
Confirmation that, during the pre-travel inspection, the animal(s) were clinically healthy.

Requirements for Traveling to the US with an Animal

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sets the requirements for bringing dogs into the United States. These rules apply to all dogs, including service dogs, and returning pets. All customers, regardless of citizenship, must follow the CDC’s requirements.

If you are traveling with a dog that has only been in rabies-free or low-risk countries, such as Mexico, within the past six months, the only form you need to complete is the CDC Dog Import Form. View instructions and learn more.
Dogs must appear healthy upon arrival.
Dogs must be at least 6 months old at time of entry or return to the U.S.
Dogs must have a microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner to identify them.
If your dog is a service animal, you must to complete the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form and submit it to the airline.

Top FAQs for Traveling with Animals at PVR Airport

What do I need to travel with an animal?

Traveling with an animal involves different requirements based on the type of animal and its role.
Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to perform tasks or do work for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disabilities. A guide dog for the visually impaired is a common example of a service animal. These animals are generally allowed to travel in the cabin with fewer restrictions, as long as they are not aggressive and meet the destination’s sanitary requirements.
Animals that are not specifically trained to perform tasks, such as emotional support animals, are not classified as service animals. Therefore, they must travel as pets and are subject to a pet fee charged by the airline. Pets may travel either in the cabin or in the hold, depending on their size and the airline’s policies. They must also meet the sanitary and vaccination requirements of the destination. Be sure to check with your airline and the destination country for the most up-to-date pet travel regulations.

Can I bring my pet into the terminal with me?

Pets are allowed in the terminal but must remain in their carrier or on a leash at all times. Please ensure your pet is comfortable and secure during your time at the airport.

Are there any pet carriers available for purchase at PVR Airport?

We recommend not relying on purchasing a pet carrier at the airport. While some pet supplies may be available at local shops, it’s best to bring your own approved carrier to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Are there any food and water stations for animals at PVR Airport?

Currently, there are no dedicated food or water stations for pets within the terminal. It’s a good idea to bring water and snacks for your pet, especially on longer travel days.

Are there any restrictions on the types of animals allowed to fly?

Airlines generally allow pets like dogs, cats, and birds to travel, but some may have restrictions on exotic animals or certain breeds, particularly those considered high-risk for travel. Always check your airline’s specific pet policies.

Can I bring a pet stroller through the airport?

While the airport does not impose restrictions on using a pet stroller through the terminal, some airlines may require you to check the stroller at the ticket counter and pay the applicable fee. Be sure to confirm with your airline in advance regarding their specific policy for traveling with a pet stroller.

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