Health Certificates
Traveling with your pet within the US or internationally requires advanced planning and the appropriate health documentation. Typically, a pet is required to be current on vaccinations, have other tests and treatments, and have a USDA approved health certificate. At Rockdale Animal Hospital, we offer comprehensive services to help you obtain the necessary health certificate, ensuring your pet is ready for a smooth journey abroad.
As soon as you know your travel details, please schedule an appointment and complete our Health Certificate Travel Form. This is a time-consuming process, especially when travelling internationally, and preparation may need to be started months in advance.
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.
