How to Fly Your Dog from the U.S. to Mexico by Alaska Airlines: All You Need to Know 2025

Planning to take your furry friend on a trip from the U.S. to Mexico with Alaska Airlines in 2025? Traveling internationally with your dog requires careful preparation to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for both of you. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, addressing the top concerns of pet owners flying their dogs across borders.

Table of Contents

• Alaska Airlines Pet Policy for Mexico
• 1. What are Alaska Airlines' carrier size and weight limits for pets in the cabin?
• 2. What health certificates and vaccination records are required?
• 3. What are Mexico's specific import regulations and quarantine requirements for dogs?
• 4. How to choose a comfortable and airline-approved pet carrier?
• 5. How to ensure your dog's safety and comfort during the flight?
• 6. What are the airport procedures for traveling with a dog?
• 7. Are there special regulations for short-nosed dog breeds?
• 8. What are the regulations for flying with service animals?
• 9. How to book your dog's ticket and are there any limitations?
• 10. What essential items should you pack for your dog?
• Product Recommendation
• Real User Experience
• FAQ
• Helpful Video

Alaska Airlines Pet Policy for Mexico

Alaska Airlines allows small dogs to travel in the cabin on flights to Mexico for a fee of $100 USD/CAD each way. Only dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin on international flights. It's crucial to call Alaska Airlines reservations at 1-800-252-7522 to reserve a spot for your pet as space is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations must be made prior to the day of travel.

1. What are Alaska Airlines' carrier size and weight limits for pets in the cabin?

For in-cabin travel, your dog must fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of you. The maximum carrier sizes are 17" L x 11" W x 7.5" H for hard-sided carriers and 17" L x 11" W x 9.5" H for soft-sided carriers. While there isn't a specific weight limit mentioned for the pet itself, the carrier must fit under the seat. If traveling with two pet carriers, you must purchase a second ticket with an adjacent seat.

2. What health certificates and vaccination records are required?

While Alaska Airlines doesn't explicitly require a health certificate for pets traveling in the cabin to Mexico, it's highly recommended to have one. Mexico itself requires proof of current rabies vaccination upon entry for in-cabin pet travel from the U.S.. It's essential to check the latest regulations with both Alaska Airlines and the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA) as requirements can change. Ensure your dog is up-to-date on all necessary vaccinations.[1, 2]

3. What are Mexico's specific import regulations and quarantine requirements for dogs?

As of 2019, Mexico generally does not require a health certificate for dogs coming from the U.S. by air, but they do require proof of rabies vaccination. Upon arrival in Mexico, you must visit the Mexican Animal and Plant Health Inspection Office (OISA) to have your dog checked for signs of diseases, ectoparasites, or fresh wounds. No bedding or other materials are allowed in the carrier upon entry. Mexico does not typically have quarantine requirements for dogs entering from the U.S. if they meet the health requirements. However, if your dog doesn't meet the requirements, they may be held for inspection or treatment.

4. How to choose a comfortable and airline-approved pet carrier?

Choosing the right carrier is crucial for your dog's comfort and to comply with Alaska Airlines' policies. Ensure the carrier is well-ventilated, leak-proof, and made of durable material. It should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Soft-sided carriers are generally recommended for in-cabin travel as they can be more easily adjusted to fit under the seat. Look for carriers with multiple openings and secure zippers. Consider a carrier like the Julibees Tote Pet Travel Carrier Bag, which is designed to be airline-approved and comfortable for your pet.

5. How to ensure your dog's safety and comfort during the flight?

Acclimate your dog to the carrier well in advance of your trip. Make it a positive space with treats and familiar toys.[2, 3] On the day of travel, avoid feeding your dog a large meal right before the flight to prevent motion sickness.[2, 4] You can offer small amounts of water. Sedation is generally not recommended unless advised by your veterinarian. Bring absorbent potty pads and cleaning wipes in case of accidents.[5, 6] During the flight, keep the carrier under the seat and try to remain calm to help your dog feel secure.

6. What are the airport procedures for traveling with a dog?

Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for check-in and security. You'll need to check in at the Alaska Airlines ticket counter to pay the pet fee and receive a pet tag for the carrier. When going through security, you'll likely need to take your dog out of the carrier to walk through the metal detector while the carrier goes through the X-ray machine.[2, 6] Keep your dog on a leash during this process for safety.[3] Many airports have designated pet relief areas where your dog can use the bathroom before your flight.[7, 2]

7. Are there special regulations for short-nosed dog breeds?

Alaska Airlines has restrictions on certain brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds for travel in the baggage compartment due to breathing concerns. However, these breeds are generally allowed in the cabin under the care of their owner, provided they fit in an approved carrier under the seat. It's crucial to monitor your short-nosed dog closely for any signs of respiratory distress during travel.[8, 9]

8. What are the regulations for flying with service animals?

Trained service dogs are accepted on Alaska Airlines flights at no charge. They are not required to travel in a carrier but must fit within the handler's personal space. You'll need to complete the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form before your flight. It's recommended to choose a window seat for safety. Emotional support animals are no longer granted the same status as service animals on most airlines.[1, 10]

9. How to book your dog's ticket and are there any limitations?

You cannot book your pet's travel online. You must book your own ticket first, and then contact Alaska Airlines reservations by phone (1-800-252-7522) to reserve space for your dog. There is a limit to the number of pets allowed in the cabin on each flight (three in First Class and eight in the Main Cabin), so it's essential to book early. You may travel with a maximum of two pet carriers in the main cabin only if you purchase a second ticket with an adjacent seat.

10. What essential items should you pack for your dog?

When traveling with your dog, pack an airline-approved carrier, proof of rabies vaccination, a health certificate (recommended), plenty of water and a portable water bowl, a small amount of your dog's food, treats, potty pads, cleaning wipes, a leash, and any necessary medications.[1, 2] Bringing a favorite toy or blanket can also help your dog feel more comfortable.[11, 12]

Product Recommendation

For a comfortable and airline-approved travel experience for your small dog, consider the Julibees Tote Pet Travel Carrier Bag. Its design meets most airline requirements and provides a secure and cozy space for your furry companion during your flight to Mexico.

Real User Experience

According to a Reddit user who flew with their dog from the U.S. to Puerto Vallarta on Alaska Airlines, the process was "super easy". Mexico did not require any health certificates, but the airline did. Upon landing, they simply stopped at a desk near baggage claim where the dog was visually inspected, and they received a clearance tag. They did mention that the airline agent in Cabo often asks to see paperwork on the return to the U.S., and a rabies certificate was accepted.

FAQ

1. Q: Can my large dog fly in the cabin with me on Alaska Airlines to Mexico?
   A: Generally, only small dogs that can fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat are allowed in the cabin. Larger dogs may need to travel in the climate-controlled baggage compartment if Alaska Airlines still offers this service to Mexico, but it's best to check their current policy.
2. Q: Do I need to inform Alaska Airlines that I'm traveling with a dog when booking my flight?
   A: Yes, you must call Alaska Airlines reservations after booking your own ticket to reserve a spot for your pet in the cabin as space is limited.
3. Q: What happens if my dog has an accident in the carrier during the flight?
   A: It's recommended to line the carrier with absorbent potty pads and bring extra pads and cleaning wipes for any accidents.[5, 6]
4. Q: Will Alaska Airlines provide food and water for my dog during the flight?
   A: It's your responsibility to provide food and water for your dog. You can bring a collapsible water bowl and offer small drinks before and after the flight. Feeding a full meal right before flying is not recommended.
5. Q: Are there any breed restrictions for dogs flying in the cabin to Mexico with Alaska Airlines?
   A: While there are restrictions for cargo travel, short-nosed breeds are generally allowed in the cabin if they meet the size requirements and are under the owner's care.

Helpful Video