A pet travel certificate, also called a health certificate or Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), is an official document completed by a veterinarian that verifies your pet is healthy and meets the travel requirements of the destination state, airline, or country.

Many airlines, states, and countries require a health certificate before pets can travel. Requirements vary depending on your destination, mode of transportation, and whether travel is domestic or international.

We recommend scheduling as early as possible. Some destinations require specific testing, vaccinations, treatments, or documentation that must be completed weeks or months before departure.

During the appointment, your veterinarian will perform a physical examination, review vaccination records, verify identification information, discuss travel requirements, and complete any necessary documentation.

Requirements vary by destination. Rabies vaccination is commonly required, but some locations may also require additional vaccines, parasite treatments, laboratory testing, or other preventive measures.

Many international destinations require pets to be permanently identified with a microchip. Some countries have specific microchip standards that must be met before travel.

A USDA-accredited veterinarian is authorized to prepare and endorse certain documents required for international pet travel. Most health certificates must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian. Thankfully, both Dr. Amelia and Dr. Mike Rauch are USDA-accredited vets and would be glad to assist with your pet’s travel!