How to adopt

Adopting a dog from a rescue in Mexico is a rewarding experience that can give a deserving animal a second chance at a loving home. Below is a detailed guide on how to go about the process, along with the requirements for bringing the dog to the United States and Canada.


Step 1: Contact Casa de los Perros

  • Research and select a reputable rescue organization in Mexico, such as Casa de los Perros, that is known for ethical practices and has experience with international adoptions.

Step 2: Submit an Adoption Application

  • Contact the chosen rescue organization and complete their adoption application. This usually involves providing information about your home, lifestyle, and experience with pets.

Step 3: Meet and Greet

  • Visit us to meet your new family member!

Step 4: Adoption Approval

  • Once approved, we will guide you through the final adoption process. This typically involves signing an adoption contract and paying an adoption fee, which covers the dog’s medical expenses.

Step 5: Prepare for Travel

  • We will assist you in preparing the dog for travel. This includes obtaining the necessary health certificates, vaccinations, and microchips required for international travel.

Requirements for Bringing a Dog to the United States

  1. Rabies Vaccination Certificate:
    • The dog must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entering the U.S.
    • Puppies under 16 weeks of age are not eligible to enter the U.S. without prior permission, as they cannot be vaccinated against rabies.
  2. Health Certificate:
    • Obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian in Mexico. The certificate must state that the dog is healthy and fit for travel.
  3. Microchip:
    • The dog should have a microchip implanted, which is registered with your contact information.
  4. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP):
    • Upon arrival in the U.S., you’ll need to declare the dog and present the required documents to the CBP officers.
  5. Port of Entry Inspection:
    • The dog may be subject to an inspection by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at the port of entry. This inspection ensures that the dog is free of diseases and fit to enter the country.

Requirements for Bringing a Dog to Canada

  1. Rabies Vaccination Certificate:
    • The dog must be vaccinated against rabies, and the vaccine must be administered at least 30 days before entering Canada. Puppies under three months of age are exempt.
  2. Health Certificate:
    • Obtain a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian in Mexico. This certificate should indicate that the dog is free from communicable diseases.
  3. Microchip:
    • The dog should have a microchip, and it’s recommended that the microchip is ISO 11784/11785 compliant for compatibility with Canadian scanners.
  4. Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA):
    • Upon arrival in Canada, you’ll need to present the required documents to the CFIA officers.
  5. Port of Entry Inspection:
    • The dog will be inspected by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) at the port of entry to ensure compliance with Canadian regulations.
  6. Import Permit (If Required):
    • For certain breeds or if the dog does not meet standard requirements, you may need to obtain an import permit from the CFIA before entry.

Final Steps

  • Post-Arrival Vet Visit:
    • After bringing the dog home, schedule a visit to your local veterinarian to ensure the dog is healthy and to establish a vaccination schedule.
  • Registration:
    • Register the dog with your local municipality and update the microchip information with your current contact details.
  • Integration:
    • Introduce the dog to its new environment gradually, and be patient as it adapts to its new home.