How to Get a Pet Health Certificate for Travel: 7 Steps Every Owner Must Know

If you’re planning to travel with your dog or cat—by air, land, or sea—you’ll likely need an official document that proves your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to get a pet health certificate for travel so you can meet airline, border, and accommodation requirements without stress or confusion.

This process may seem complicated, but with the right information and a clear checklist, it’s entirely manageable. Let’s walk through the steps every pet owner should follow to get their certificate on time.

What Is a Pet Health Certificate?

A pet health certificate (also called a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection or CVI) is an official document issued by a licensed veterinarian that confirms your pet is healthy and vaccinated. It’s typically required by:

• Airlines (both domestic and international)
• State or country border authorities
• Pet-friendly accommodations or travel services

For international travel, the certificate must often meet additional requirements, depending on the destination country.

Why Do You Need a Pet Health Certificate?

Traveling with a pet without proper documentation can lead to:

• Denied boarding by airlines
• Delays at customs or border checkpoints
• Mandatory quarantines
• Fines or refusal of entry

A valid certificate ensures your pet isn’t carrying contagious diseases and is fit to travel safely.

How to Get a Pet Health Certificate for Travel (Step-by-Step)

1. Check Destination Requirements

Before anything else, research what your destination (state or country) requires for incoming pets. Use official sources like:

• USDA APHIS Pet Travel (for international trips)
• Your airline’s pet policy page
• The destination country’s embassy website

Each place may have different rules on vaccination timing, microchipping, or parasite treatments.

2. Book a Vet Appointment With a USDA-Accredited Veterinarian

Only USDA-accredited veterinarians can issue valid health certificates for international travel. You can find one in your area using the USDA vet locator. Make sure your vet:

• Knows the exact destination and travel date
• Has experience preparing travel certificates
• Can complete all required treatments and documentation

3. Complete Required Exams and Vaccinations

Your pet will need a physical exam (usually within 10 days of travel) and proof of:

• Rabies vaccination
• General health (no signs of illness)
• Other vaccines depending on destination (e.g., DHPP, Bordetella)
• Flea/tick or parasite prevention if required

Get original vaccine records and ensure all documentation is complete and signed.

4. Microchip Your Pet (If Required)

Many countries require pets to be microchipped before their rabies vaccine. Make sure the microchip is ISO-compliant and registered with your contact details. Bring microchip documents to your vet visit.

5. Have the Vet Complete and Sign the Certificate

Your vet will fill out the APHIS Form 7001 (for domestic travel) or the correct country-specific form. Double-check that:

• All entries are typed and accurate
• Signatures and stamps are included
• Dates are correct (especially travel date vs. exam date)

6. Get USDA Endorsement (for International Travel)

For international trips, you may need to send the signed certificate to a USDA APHIS office for official endorsement. This step may be:

• Done in-person (by appointment)
• Completed via overnight mail or online (depending on region)

Make sure to allow several business days for processing.

7. Bring the Certificate During Your Trip

Always carry the original paper copy with you. Do not rely on digital versions unless explicitly accepted. Airlines may check it at boarding, and customs may ask for it upon arrival.

Tips to Avoid Certificate Delays

• Schedule the vet visit at least 2 weeks before departure
• Pre-fill any known information on the forms
• Triple-check travel dates and pet info (name, breed, age, etc.)
• Use a folder to store all documents, including airline forms, vaccination proof, and microchip data

How Long Is a Pet Health Certificate Valid?

• Domestic Travel (U.S.): Usually valid for 30 days
• International Travel: Often valid for 10 days or less from issue to entry

Always confirm with the airline and country-specific guidelines.

What Happens If You Don’t Have One?

Without a health certificate, your pet may:

• Be denied boarding at the airport
• Face quarantine at arrival
• Be sent back to the country of origin
• Be separated from you during travel

Planning ahead protects both your travel plans and your pet’s health.

Conclusion

Knowing how to get a pet health certificate for travel is one of the most important steps you can take before your trip. It ensures your pet is healthy, documented, and ready for a smooth journey—whether you’re flying across the country or moving abroad.

If you’re unsure, always speak to a USDA-accredited vet well in advance. With the right preparation, your next adventure with your pet will be safe, compliant, and worry-free.