Pet Health Certificates in Conyers

Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling with Your Pet

Traveling with your pet within the U.S. or internationally requires advance planning and the appropriate health documentation. Depending on your destination, your pet may need to be current on vaccinations, complete additional testing or treatments, and obtain a USDA-endorsed health certificate.

At Rockdale Animal Hospital, we provide the services and guidance needed to help you obtain your pet's health certificate and prepare for safe travel domestically or internationally. This process can be complex, especially for international destinations, so we recommend starting several months in advance.

Once your travel plans are confirmed, complete the appropriate form(s) to begin the process with our team.

• Health Certificate for International Travel
• Health Certificate for Domestic Travel

What is a Health Certificate? 

A health certificate is an official document issued by a licensed veterinarian that confirms your pet is in good health and free from contagious diseases. 

When Do You Need a Health Certificate? 

• Air Travel: Most airlines require a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. This certificate ensures that your pet is healthy enough to fly and meet the airline's requirements. 
• Interstate Travel: Some states have specific health requirements for pets entering their borders. A health certificate verifies that your pet meets these state-specific regulations. 
• Entering a Foreign Country: Most countries have specific health regulations for animals entering their borders, including vaccination requirements, microchip identification, and parasite treatments. 
• Re-entry into the US: If you are traveling abroad and plan to return to the U.S. with your pet, you will need an international health certificate that complies with re-entry requirements. 
• Pet-Friendly Accommodation: Many hotels, resorts, and other accommodations require a health certificate to ensure the safety and health of all guests. 

What Does a Health Certificate Include? 

A health certificate may include the following. When travelling internationally, the country visiting may have additional criteria.  

• Pet Information: Details such as your pet’s name, species, breed, age, and identification (microchip number, if applicable). 
• Vaccination Records: Proof that your pet is up-to-date on required vaccinations, such as rabies and other country-specific vaccinations. 
• Health Examination Findings: Results of a thorough physical examination conducted by our veterinarian to confirm your pet’s overall health and fitness for travel. 
• Veterinarian’s Information: The issuing veterinarian’s name, signature, and contact information, along with the date of examination. 
• Parasite Treatments: Documentation of treatments for parasites, such as ticks and tapeworms, as required by the destination country. 
• Endorsements: Some countries require that the health certificate be endorsed by a government veterinarian, such as those from the USDA in the United States. 

You can also check out the following resources for more information:  

• USDA pet travel website, aphis.usda.gov/aphis/pet-travel
• Fly With My Pet, flywithmypet.com 

For more information or to schedule an appointment for a health certificate, please contact us at (770) 922-8600.