As I sit here watching my new puppy, Levi the Wild Whoodle, stretch – I swear every time he does that, he grows another inch. I want to say stop stretching please, because there’s something about this puppy size and that puppy look – I want to halt his growth but yet… I want him to act like an adult dog. And because of him, I’m reminded why I wanted to share some insights about bringing your four-legged family members (only cats and dogs are allowed) to Puerto Peñasco. (For some puppy laughs and daily doses of cuteness, you can follow Levi’s adventures on Instagram @LevithewildWhoodle!)
Getting a new puppy has been a delightful reminder of something I’d completely forgotten: patience isn’t just a virtue – it’s an absolute necessity! Despite having raised a dog before, I somehow managed to forget the whirlwind of those early stages. It’s like childbirth; nature has a way of making us forget the challenging parts. But here I am, back in puppy training boot camp, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Speaking of adventures, let’s talk about bringing your furry friend to our slice of paradise in Rocky Point. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, there are some important things to know about crossing the border with your pup and enjoying your time here.
Border Crossing: The Paper Trail
While both sides don’t always check documentation (don’t tell anyone I said that!), it’s crucial to have your ducks – or in this case, puppies – in a row. For dogs over six months old, you’ll need:
– A certificate of good health from your vet
– Current vaccination records, especially rabies
– The CDC form (available at cdc.gov) for re-entering the USA
These forms are surprisingly easy to complete but having them ready can save you from that awkward moment at the border when your pup decides to give their “most innocent” look to the customs officer. My advice is to make copies of both just having it on your phone and showing them will not be sufficient on the Mexico side and probably not the USA side either even though it is the day of electronics.
Here’s something vital for beach-loving dog parents: Rocky Point takes its leash laws seriously, particularly on certified beaches. These pristine stretches of sand can actually lose their certification if they don’t enforce leash requirements. However, if your pup needs to channel their inner beach runner, there are plenty of beautiful, uncertified beaches away from Sandy Beach and Islas Del Mar where they can splash and play more freely.
Rocky Point welcomes four-legged tourists with open arms! But don’t think you’re going to stick them into a condo you rented for the weekend, especially if the condo only allows owners to have pets (this is true even for assisted/support animals). Check before you go and search for pet-friendly accommodations in vacation rental sites.
Peñasco del Sol Hotel: Located in the heart of town, this hotel allows small pets up to 45 pounds and provides easy access to nearby walking areas and pet-friendly restaurants.
Vacation Home Rentals: Many private rental homes and condos in areas like Las Conchas, Playa Encanto, Costa Diamante and Miramar rentals welcome pets. Just be sure to confirm the pet policy with individual owners.
Casa Blanca Golf Villas: There are several rental units that welcome pets and offer plenty of green space for walks. The quiet location is perfect for pets who prefer a more peaceful setting.
Remember, vacationing with pets in Mexico requires some extra planning. Pack more food than you think you’ll need – Mexican pet food brands might not agree with your pup’s delicate digestive system. And in our desert paradise, water is crucial. Pack a collapsible water bowl and bring extra water for those beach walks.
In an unfamiliar place, even the most well-behaved puppy can get disoriented. Ensure your pet wears a collar with current ID tags, and if they’re microchipped, make sure the information is up to date. Consider adding a temporary tag with your local contact information during your stay.
The joy of watching your dog experience the beach for the first time or seeing them make new friends (both human and canine) at one of our pet-friendly restaurants, makes any extra preparation worthwhile. Just remember, like training a new puppy, traveling with pets requires patience, preparation, and a good sense of humor.
As my new pup reminds me daily with his cuteness and playful antics that make us laugh, the best adventures often come with a bit of chaos and a lot of love. So, pack those bags (and don’t forget the poop bags!), gather your patience, and come experience Rocky Point through your pup’s eyes. Just be prepared for lots of sandy paws and salty kisses!
Remember, a vacation with your dog isn’t just a trip – it’s an adventure waiting to happen. And here in Rocky Point, we’ve got plenty of both to go around!
Favorite outside dog, friendly restaurants, and bars:
Banditos
JJ’s
The Crane (patio and lawn at Islas Del Mar)
Wrecked at the Reef
Manny’s & Diego’s
Pitaya
PS If you just want to experience pup love, take a ride out to Barb’s Dog Rescue. Contact them ahead of time, and they will show you a VIP experience. Who knows, you might even find your next family member.
