In short: dogs and cats coming to Puerto Rico from the US mainland need no import permit from the Puerto Rico Department of Agriculture. They do need a health certificate valid for 30 days, a rabies vaccine given within six months before the trip, treatment for external parasites within 72 hours before arrival, and identification such as a microchip or a collar with a metal tag.
Puerto Rico is a US territory, so moving a pet from the mainland is treated as interstate movement, not as an international import. That keeps the paperwork short, but the timing of each step matters. The rules below come from the Puerto Rico Department of Agriculture's import regulations, updated in November 2024.
What your dog needs
- No import permit for dogs and cats moving from the US mainland.
- A health certificate from a licensed veterinarian, valid for 30 days from the inspection date.
- A rabies vaccine given within six months before travel.
- External parasite treatment (ticks and fleas) within 72 hours before arrival.
- Identification: a microchip or a collar with a metal tag.
Timing the paperwork
Work backwards from your arrival date. The parasite treatment has the shortest window, 72 hours, so book it for the last few days before you fly. The health certificate gives you 30 days, and the rabies vaccine six months. If your dog's rabies shot is older than that, get a booster before the vet visit for the certificate.
Flying with your dog
Whether your dog can travel in the cabin, as checked baggage or as cargo depends on the airline, the dog's size and the season. Check your airline's own pet policy when you book, because the rules and fees differ from one carrier to another.
If your dog stays home instead
A short trip to the island is often easier without the dog. If you live in Puerto Rico and travel out, Petme lets you book a verified sitter who boards your dog in their home or looks after your pets in yours. See pet sitters and dog boarding in Puerto Rico, or browse by town in Spanish on cuido de perros en Puerto Rico.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take my dog to Puerto Rico from the US?
Yes. The Puerto Rico Department of Agriculture does not require an import permit for dogs and cats coming from the US mainland. Your dog needs a health certificate valid for 30 days, a rabies vaccine within six months of travel, parasite treatment within 72 hours of arrival and an ID.
What do I need to bring a dog to Puerto Rico?
A health certificate from a licensed vet issued within 30 days of travel, proof of a rabies vaccine given within the six months before the trip, treatment for external parasites within 72 hours before arrival, and a microchip or a collar with a metal tag.
Can my dog fly with me to Puerto Rico?
It depends on your airline, your dog's size and the time of year. Each airline sets its own rules for dogs in the cabin, as checked baggage or as cargo, and its own fees. Confirm with the airline when you book, and keep the Puerto Rico health paperwork with you.
Is there dog boarding in Puerto Rico?
Yes. There are dog hotels on the island, and on Petme verified sitters board dogs in their own homes. As a reference, three Puerto Rican dog hotels that publish their rates charge from $30 a night, with a regular room at $34 to $55 (October 2026). Owners pay 0% commission on Petme.
