USDA Travel Health Certificates

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When traveling with your pet(s), there may be animal health requirements specific to that destination. As soon as you know your travel details, contact your local veterinarian to assist with the pet travel process. Factors to consider may include meeting time frames for obtaining a health certificate, updating vaccinations, diagnostic testing, or administration of medications/ treatments.

It’s important to note that improper or incomplete paperwork for your pet can derail your travel plans and end up costing you time and money. St. Georges Veterinary Hospital wants to help simplify traveling with your pet. Let us assist you throughout this process!

Please click here for more information on specific requirements for your specific destination from the United States Department of Agriculture.

Domestic Travel Certificates
Many states require an up-to-date Certificate of Veterinary Inspection from a licensed, accredited veterinarian when traveling. Your pet must be examined by a veterinarian in order for a health certificate to be issued. This certificate indicates that your pet is healthy for travel and that he or she is not showing signs of disease. This certificate is required by most airlines in order for your pet to travel within the continental United States. We strongly recommend contacting your individual airline to understand their specific travel requirements. Oftentimes airlines require that your pet be examined by a veterinarian and a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. Check with your airline to ensure that your paperwork will be in order.

If necessary we are able to add a certificate of acclimation to your pet’s travel papers. This certificate is written at the discretion of our veterinarians and is based upon our vet’s assessment of your pet’s health allowing him or her to travel above or below certain temperatures.

International Travel Certificates
Our veterinarians are USDA certified and can provide international pet health certificates, which are required when traveling with your pet outside of the United States.

Many countries have their own pet health certificates and travel requirements, available here. If you are traveling to a country without an approved health certificate, please download the United States Interstate and International Certificate of Health Examination for Small Animals.

The International Health Certificate should be issued by one of our USDA certified veterinarians at Hackettstown Animal Hospital as near to the travel date as possible, but not more than 21 days before travel. The certificate should indicate the following:

  • Name of pet
  • Breed
  • Color
  • Age of pet
  • Country of origin
  • Name/address/phone number of the owner of pet
  • Confirmation that pet is healthy and free of parasites
  • Vaccinations given, including type, manufacturer, and batch number

Generally, the rabies shot must be given at least 30 days, but not more than 12 months, before travel, although some countries have different requirements. However, you must enter your destination country before your pet’s most recent rabies vaccination has expired.

Along with an international health certificate, there may be additional requirements for traveling abroad. Please take some time to familiarize yourself with the international pet travel requirements specific to your destination. If you have any questions, our staff is happy to help.