Screwworm Certification for Travel Across the Mexican Border

Traveling to Mexico with Your Pet?

If you're planning a trip to Mexico with your dog or cat, don't forget about the paperwork needed for your return home.

As part of current USDA import requirements, dogs and cats returning to the United States through the Mexican border must have a Screwworm Health Certificate completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian. At Pinnacle Peak Animal Hospital, we can perform the required examination, provide any necessary preventive treatments, and complete the documentation needed to help your trip go smoothly.

What Is Screwworm?

New World screwworm is a serious parasitic fly whose larvae can invade open wounds or damaged tissue in warm-blooded animals. Because of the risk this parasite poses to animal health and agriculture, the United States has strict regulations for pets entering the country from areas where screwworm is a concern.

A Screwworm Certificate verifies that your pet has been examined by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and shows no evidence of screwworm infestation before travel.

Who Needs a Screwworm Certificate?

A Screwworm Certificate is required for:

• Dogs traveling to Mexico and returning to the United States through the Mexican border

• Cats traveling to Mexico and returning to the United States through the Mexican border

Even if your trip is only for a day or a weekend, your pet will need the required documentation before returning to the U.S.

When Should My Pet Be Examined?

Timing is extremely important.

Your pet must be examined, and the certificate must be issued within five (5) days prior to entering Mexico. Certificates issued earlier than this may not be accepted for reentry into the United States.

Because appointments can fill quickly, we recommend scheduling your visit as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.

What Is Required?

During your appointment, our USDA-accredited veterinarian will:

• Perform a complete physical examination

• Check your pet carefully for any signs of screwworm infestation

• Verify your pet meets current USDA travel requirements

• Administer required flea and tick prevention (if needed)

• Complete the official Screwworm Certificate and all required documentation

We'll also review your travel plans and answer any questions you may have before your departure.

Flea & Tick Prevention

Current travel requirements include flea and tick prevention before travel.

If your pet is already on an approved preventive medication, we'll review their records to ensure they meet current requirements. If treatment is needed, we can administer or prescribe the appropriate medication during your appointment.

Why Choose Pinnacle Peak Animal Hospital?

Travel paperwork can be confusing, especially when regulations change.

Our experienced team will:

• Complete your paperwork accurately

• Ensure all required forms are filled out correctly

• Help you meet USDA travel requirements

• Answer your travel-related questions

• Help minimize delays or complications when returning to the United States

Our goal is to make international travel with your pet as simple and stress-free as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Screwworm Certificate if I'm only visiting Mexico for one day?

Yes. If your dog or cat will be returning to the United States through the Mexican border, the required documentation applies regardless of how long you stay.

Can any veterinarian issue the certificate?

No. The examination and certificate must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.

How far in advance should I schedule?

We recommend scheduling your appointment as soon as your travel plans are finalized. Since the certificate is only valid within five days of travel into Mexico, we'll help you schedule your visit at the appropriate time.

What if my pet has a health certificate for travel?

A standard health certificate may not satisfy screwworm certification requirements. We'll make sure you receive the documentation required for your specific travel itinerary.

Schedule Your Screwworm Certification Appointment

If you're planning to travel to Mexico with your pet, let our team help you prepare with the proper examination and travel documentation.

We'll make sure your pet is ready to travel with accurate paperwork, current preventive care, and the guidance you need for a smooth return to the United States.

Pinnacle Peak Animal Hospital

23425 N. Scottsdale Rd., Suite A-11

Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Phone: (480) 585-7511

Contact us today to schedule your pet's Screwworm Certification appointment.