Bringing Your Pets to Belize: What You Need to Know
- Craig Densham
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Yes, You Can Bring Your Pets to Belize — But It Takes Planning
If you’re dreaming of moving to Belize or staying long-term in Placencia, you’re probably wondering: “Can I bring my dog or cat with me?”
The answer is yes, but it takes a little paperwork, patience, and preparation.
When we relocated to Belize, we brought our two cats with us from the U.S. — flying them into Belize City. The process was smoother than expected, but it came with some lessons we wish we’d known ahead of time. This guide covers everything we learned about flying or driving pets to Belize, including the hidden pitfalls most people overlook.
The Official Requirements
To bring your pet to Belize, you’ll need an Import Permit from the Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA).
Here’s the process:
Contact BAHA at least 2–3 weeks before travel via email: animalhealth@baha.org.bz
Fill out their Import Permit Application Form
Pay a small fee (around $12 USD)
Receive your approved permit by email
Bring it — printed — along with your vet documents
You’ll also need:
Rabies vaccination certificate (given at least 30 days before travel, less than a year old)
General health certificate issued by your U.S. vet within 7 days of travel
Proof of flea, tick, and worm treatments
💡 Tip: Your U.S. vet can issue both the health and vaccination certificates — make sure they use official USDA forms (APHIS Form 7001).
Flying Your Pets to Belize
Most travelers fly pets into Belize City (BZE) via Miami, Houston, or Dallas.
What to Expect:
Airlines require reservations for pets — book early.
Cabin vs Cargo: Small pets can fly in-cabin on American or Delta; larger pets go as checked baggage or cargo.
Arrival: Once you land, a BAHA officer will inspect your paperwork and your pet before releasing them into the country.
Pitfall: Belize is humid year-round, and airlines have temperature restrictions — meaning pets can be denied boarding during hot weather. Fly early in the day or during cooler months (Nov–March) to avoid this.
Driving Your Pets Through Mexico
If you’re making the epic road trip from the U.S. to Belize (yes, many do!), you’ll be crossing two borders: U.S. → Mexico → Belize.
Here’s what to expect at each stage:
Entering Mexico:
Mexico allows dogs and cats with current rabies certificates — no quarantine.
You’ll need to stop at the SENASICA (agricultural inspection) office near the border.
They’ll visually inspect your pet, check your paperwork, and may sanitize the carrier.
💡 Tip: Have a Spanish translation of your health certificate to speed things up.
Entering Belize from Mexico:
Use the Chetumal–Corozal border crossing — it’s the most pet-friendly and well-traveled route.
Present your BAHA permit and veterinary documents.
Expect a short inspection by Belize customs and BAHA.
Common Pitfalls (Learn from Experience!)
Paperwork Timing – If your vet health certificate is older than 7 days, Belize will reject it.
Wrong Rabies Dates – Vaccinations must be between 30 days and 1 year old — no exceptions.
Weekend Arrivals – BAHA officers don’t work weekends or holidays. Arrive Monday–Friday only.
Airline Mix-Ups – Some airlines treat Belize as “Central America,” not the Caribbean. Double-check rules.
Heat Restrictions – Flights can get canceled if tarmac temps are above 85°F.
Mexico Stopovers – You’ll need to exit your car for inspection; pets can’t stay inside during customs.
Limited Pet Supplies – Once in Belize, high-quality pet food or meds can be scarce or expensive.
💡 Bring an extra bag of your pet’s usual food — it helps them adjust and buys you time to find a local supplier.
Pet Life in Belize
Once you arrive, your pet will love Belize. There’s endless beach space, friendly locals, and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle. Just remember:
Keep pets leashed in villages (it’s respectful and safer).
Watch for sand fleas and tropical ticks — use prevention monthly.
Register your pet with a local vet for routine care.
Placencia, in particular, is very pet-friendly — many cafes, and rentals welcome animals.
A Note from Ocean Breeze Beach Resort
While we love animals and brought our own two cats from the U.S., please note that Ocean Breeze Beach Resort is not a pet-friendly hotel.
Our decision helps us maintain the cleanliness, comfort, and allergen-free environment our guests expect.
Visit Ocean Breeze Beach Resort
Even if your pets can’t stay at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, they can certainly join you at Toucan Jacks Tiki Bar - dogs are very welcome with their owners.
Beachfront luxury suites with Caribbean views
Pool and swim-up bar
Central Placencia location — close to shops, tours, and restaurants
Relaxation-focused stay — designed for adults and allergy-sensitive guests
About the Author
Craig Densham is the owner of Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, a boutique seaside resort in Placencia, Belize. With years of local experience and a passion for hospitality, Craig loves helping guests discover the best of Belize — from hidden beaches to authentic local cuisine. Follow Ocean Breeze Beach Resort on Facebook and Instagram for travel inspiration.
