There are two types of health certificates available: one which approves pets for travel within the continental United States, and another which approves them for international travel.
Acquiring a health certificate requires an appointment with your veterinarian. During this visit, your pet will receive a full exam to certify they are healthy and safe for travel. The doctor will also verify that the rabies vaccination is current, as this is mandatory.
Preparation is key. These appointments require advance planning and cannot be completed last minute, so please schedule as early as possible to ensure your travel plans go smoothly.
Complete Medical Records: We must have your pet’s full medical history on file before scheduling a health certificate appointment. Please ensure records from any previous veterinarian are provided in advance.
Timeline Requirements: Many destinations require health certificates to be issued within a specific timeframe (often within 10 days of travel).
International Travel: Some countries require additional steps such as microchipping, bloodwork, parasite prevention treatments, or USDA endorsement of the certificate. These can take weeks to months to arrange.
Owner Responsibility: It is the owner’s responsibility to confirm the exact requirements for their destination and airline. Our team will assist with documentation but cannot guarantee compliance without this information.
Airline Rules: Airlines may have their own restrictions regarding the type or timing of health certificates. Please confirm details with your carrier before booking your appointment.
Because requirements vary widely, we recommend contacting us as soon as your travel plans are made. Early preparation helps avoid delays and ensures your pet is ready for a safe journey.
