Pet Travel Requirements for Puerto Rico 2025
Traveling with your pet to Puerto Rico? 🐕🌴 Whether moving or vacationing, being aware of the pet travel regulations in Puerto Rico will ensure a smooth journey. This guide covers everything from health certifications to airline policies so you and your pet can enjoy the island stress-free! 🏝️
Why Puerto Rico is a Pet-Friendly Destination 🐶❤️
Puerto Rico welcomes pets with open arms! From pet-friendly beaches 🏖️ to pet-friendly hotels 🏨, the island makes traveling with your pet a breeze. According to the USDA , Puerto Rico follows U.S. pet import laws, but there are still vital requirements to meet.
“Proper documentation and vaccination are crucial to prevent quarantine delays when traveling with pets to Puerto Rico.” – USDA
1. Puerto Rico Pet Entry Requirements (2025 Updates) 📋
✅ Health Certificate & Vaccinations
- Rabies Vaccine – Must be administered at least 30 days before travel (but not more than 12 months for dogs/cats)
- Health Certificate – Signed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian within 10 days of travel
- Microchip – Not required but highly recommended for identification
🚫 No Quarantine for U.S. Pets
Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, mainland pets don’t need quarantine if requirements are met.
✈️ Airlines & Pet Policies
Major airlines (Delta, American, JetBlue) allow in-cabin pets or as checked baggage. Key regulations:
- ✔ In-cabin pets – Must fit under seat (max ~20 lbs)
- ✔ Checked pets – Required for larger animals (check airline crate policies)
- ✔ Fees – Typically $95-$125 each way
Pro Tip: Book early—airlines limit pets per flight! ⏰
2. Best Pet-Friendly Airlines 🛫
| Airline | In-Cabin Pets? | Checked Pets? | Fee (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | $125 |
| American | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | $125 |
| JetBlue | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | $125 |
| Southwest | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | $95 |
Best for Large Dogs: American Airlines (climate-controlled cargo hold) 🐕
3. Pet-Friendly Hotels in Puerto Rico 🏨
🌟 Luxury Stays
- La Concha Renaissance Resort (San Juan) – Beachfront, no weight limits
- Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve – High-end pet pampering (fee applies)
💰 Budget-Friendly Options
- Airbnbs with yards – Search “pet-friendly” filters
- Sheraton Old San Juan – Central location, $50 pet fee
Note: Always verify pet policies—some hotels restrict breeds. 📞
4. Exploring Puerto Rico with Your Pet 🗺️
🏖️ Pet-Friendly Beaches
- Playa El Escambrón (San Juan) – Leashed pets allowed
- Playa La Pared (Luquillo) – Spacious & pet-friendly
🌳 Parks & Trails
- Parque Central de San Juan – Great for walks
- El Yunque Rainforest – Pets allowed in some areas (check current rules)
🍽️ Pet-Friendly Restaurants
- La Casita Blanca (San Juan) – Traditional cuisine, outdoor seating
- Pannes (Rincón) – Provides water bowls & treats
5. Emergency Vet Care in Puerto Rico 🏥
Locate 24/7 clinics before traveling:
- San Juan: Veterinary Medical Center (+1 787-720-3055)
- Rincón: Island Veterinary Services (+1 787-823-0619)
Tip: Consider pet insurance for unexpected visits. 💳
6. Returning to U.S. Mainland 🇺🇸
As Puerto Rico is U.S. territory, no extra paperwork is needed for return flights. Just ensure:
- ✔ Your pet’s rabies vaccine is current
- ✔ You have a copy of the health certificate
Final Travel Checklist ✔️
- ✔ Health certificate (within 10 days of travel)
- ✔ Rabies vaccination proof (30+ days old)
- ✔ Airline-approved carrier (labeled with contact info)
- ✔ Vet records & medications (if applicable)
- ✔ Emergency vet contacts saved
Frequently Asked Questions Pet Travel Requirements for Puerto Rico🐾
What shots does my pet need for Puerto Rico? 💉
The only shot that is required is rabies, which must be administered at least 30 days before traveling (but no more than 12 months in advance for dogs/cats). Although not required, these recommended shots are distemper, parvovirus, and leptospirosis – especially when traveling to rural areas or dog parks.
Can I bring my emotional support animal to Puerto Rico? 🐕🦺
As of 2025, special accommodations are given only to service dogs with appropriate training documentation. Emotional support animals are subject to the same conditions as pets, such as health certificates and rabies vaccination. Airlines no longer provide ESA privileges under current DOT regulations.
Are there breed restrictions for pets in Puerto Rico? 🚫🐶
Even though Puerto Rico does not have breed restrictions at the territorial level, specific hotels and airlines may restrict “bully breeds” like Pit Bulls. Always contact your specific accommodation and carrier. Public areas generally welcome all well-behaved, leashed dogs of any breed.
How long is a health certificate valid for Puerto Rico? 📅
The USDA-issued certificate of health is good for 10 days from issue date through your date of arrival. On round trips to the mainland, the same one will usually suffice if still within that time frame. Always carry multiple copies – electronic and on paper.
Which is the best airline for large dogs going to Puerto Rico? ✈️
American Airlines offers the most reliable large dog service, with climate-controlled cargo holds and dedicated pet personnel. Their “PetEmbark” program has tracking for checked pets. For enormous dogs over 100 lbs, utilize specialty pet shipping companies like PetAir.
Are there any pet quarantine requirements for Puerto Rico? 🚧
Quarantine is not required for pets traveling from the U.S. mainland if all is in order. This contrasts with international travel – one reason Puerto Rico is ideal for traveling pets. Held temporarily only would be animals with improper rabies vaccination.
Can my cat be let loose at pet-friendly hotels? 🐱
Most hotels in Puerto Rico require cats to be kept in carriers when staff enter rooms, and on leashes in common areas. Some upscale resorts like Dorado Beach offer cat-proofed rooms with enclosed balconies. Always tell you’re bringing a cat when booking reservations.
Where can I find a USDA-accredited vet for travel forms? 🏥
Use the USDA’s vet locator to locate accredited practitioners in your area. Book appointments 2-3 weeks prior to travel, since certain tests are time-consuming and must be sent away for analysis. Emergency vets can usually not sign travel certificates.
What are the pet charges at Puerto Rico hotels? 💰
Rates are $25-$150 per stay, with luxury resorts running $100+. Some hotels run per night (typically $25-$50). Exceptions: San Juan’s La Concha imposes one flat rate of $75 cleaning fee regardless of stay length, while a few Airbnb accommodations allow pets at no extra charge.
Are there pet stores in Puerto Rico for emergency situations? 🚨
Main areas have PetSmart (San Juan, Carolina) and local pet shops selling food, medicine, and accessories. For more remote locations, take 2-3 days’ worth of material. Walmart and Supermercados Econo will typically have basic pet supplies in a bind.
Ready for a Pawsome Puerto Rico Adventure? 🎉
Now that you know the pet travel regulations in Puerto Rico, you’re set for an unforgettable trip! Book your flights, pack those treats, and get ready to explore the island with your best friend. 🐕💕
Questions? Drop them below—we’re happy to help! 🐾