After giving your pet a comprehensive examination, your veterinarian will fill out an official document known as a pet health certificate or certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI). The paper confirms that your pet is clear of disease and specifies every vaccination that your pet has had and is currently on. It also contains comprehensive details about your pet, such as age, breed, and microchip data.
A certified, USDA-accredited veterinarian is the only source from whom you may receive a pet health certificate. Ensure your veterinarian is USDA accredited if you require a dog health certificate for travel.
Do You Need One While Flying?
Almost all commercial airlines will need a pet health certificate for each pet traveling with you. The length of time airlines provide for obtaining a travel certificate for dogs will vary. For instance, although some airlines advocate obtaining a health certificate within ten days of travel, others will need one within 14 days.
Contact your airline while you are still in the planning phases of your trip to find out whether you need to submit any other papers in addition to a certificate of veterinary examination. In addition to a health certificate, several airlines need their specific papers to be completed.
Driving to the Different States
You could need a dog health certificate for travel even if you’re driving to another state in your automobile. Depending on the state, different conditions apply. For instance, entering California with a pet is not subject to the need for a health certificate. The owner must merely present documentation of the dog’s most recent rabies vaccine.
However, several states demand a current pet health certificate before traversing state boundaries. Owners who don’t have a current health certificate risk receiving hefty fines.
