Going somewhere?
If you’re planning a trip to another state or country and taking your furry friend with you, you’ll need a Health Certificate! A USDA-certified veterinarian must complete these certificates, and they confirm that your pet is healthy enough to travel and meets all the requirements for entry at your destination. Depending on where you’re headed, the process can be complex and time-consuming and may involve wellness checks, vaccinations, parasite preventatives, and official documentation.
Additionally, each airline has its own requirements and restrictions for pet travel, and it’s essential to investigate these well beforehand. The USDA suggests a minimum 10-day time frame for completing health certificates; however, many airlines require that health certificates be completed no more than 10 days before travel. You’ll need to contact your specific airline to find out their policies.
But don’t worry—Dr. Brenda is UDSA-certified for pet travel and is ready to help you (and your pet) get where you want to go.
Interstate Health Certificates
If you’re traveling between US states with your pet, the requirements vary depending on what state you’re traveling to and whether you’ll be driving or flying. Each state has different requirements; some (Hawaii, for example) are much more involved than others.
The USDA Interstate Pet Travel website is an excellent place to start your research for each state’s requirements.
International Health Certificates
If you’re headed to another country with your pet, the regulations vary greatly depending on your destination. Some countries require a relatively small amount of preparation, while others have requirements that are quite extensive and can take several months to complete. If you’re traveling internationally with your pet, researching your destination’s requirements well before your planned departure is crucial.
To start researching the requirements for your international destination, consult the USDA International Pet Travel website.
We have experience providing interstate and international health certificates to many destinations and are ready to make this task as easy and efficient for you as possible. If you’re planning a trip with your pet or have questions about our health certificate services, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Bon voyage!