What to know about health certificates for pets — like USDA health certification endorsements for pet travel
Planning a trip and want to take your BFF with you? You might be surprised to learn that every country, state, and even airline may require different forms to allow you to travel with your pet. These are often specific health certifications that need to be endorsed by your veterinarian.
Your pet may need updated vaccinations, diagnostic tests, and even medications or treatments before they can be cleared for travel. So don’t wait until the last minute — partner with your veterinary team as soon as possible to ensure your pet and their paperwork are travel-safe before you go. Your veterinary team is there to help.
Pet travel forms for different destinations
Travel in the US from state to state: Each state in the U.S. may have slightly different travel rules, which can vary depending on what kind of animal your pet is — dog, cat, and even hedgehog. (For example, Hawaii has special requirements for rabies testing that other states don’t.)
One common form for cats and dogs is a health certificate, which states that a veterinarian has checked out your pet to ensure they aren’t carrying contagious diseases or parasites. Depending on how you’re traveling, your pet may also need something called an attestation, which may focus on your pet’s behavior or their ability to travel in cargo on a plane.
It can really help to talk to your veterinary team about paperwork (and travel care!) for your pet as soon as you know your travel plans.
Pets and international travel from the US to another country: Traveling outside of the United States? Make sure you know U.S. regulations, plus the regulations of your destination country.
International or export health certificates may be required to prove your pet has received rabies vaccinations or other medications or treatments, has a microchip identification, or meets other special requirements. You may also need to provide proof of examination by a state-certified veterinarian. (Some countries, but not all, allow your vet to create and submit these certificates digitally.)
These certifications and processes can take some time. If you’re planning an international trip, we recommend partnering with your veterinary team sooner rather than later to make sure you and your pet are set for travel.
Cat and dog imports to the U.S. from a foreign country: If you’re traveling round-trip with your pet, make sure to coordinate with your American veterinarian. The United States has very strict rules about bringing pets back into the country, especially from areas with a high risk of certain diseases. You may need to coordinate with multiple agencies to make sure your pet can safely return home.
Need more information? Get a deeper dive on what forms you need based on your destination and your pet’s species through APHIS, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
What forms do I need to fly with my pet?
Different airlines (and destinations) require different forms for pets to fly — either in the cabin or checked as special cargo — so it’s always smart to contact your airline directly about what’s required before you buy your ticket. Many airlines require a form called an “attestation” or “acclimation,” which states that your pet can travel safely on a plane. Don’t worry, your vet team can often help.
When flying with pets, always communicate directly with your airline. Make sure to discuss what your airline requires before and how your pet will be handled before you buy your tickets. Even if the airline is pet-friendly, some of their flights may not allow pets; others may not allow pets as cargo depending on weather conditions like excess heat on the tarmac. It’s also smart to confirm your pet’s arrangements a few days before your flight.
How Banfield® can help
Banfield is here to help you and your pet on your travels with health certificates and other necessary paperwork. Plus, our Optimum Wellness Plans® travel with you! Give your pet a smart and affordable yearlong package of high-quality preventive veterinary care designed to help keep them happy and healthy. Your pet’s package is good at any of Banfield’s more than 1,000 locations across the United States and includes preventive veterinary services, 24/7 access to veterinary advice with Vet ChatTM, convenient Virtual Visits, and more.
Read more from Banfield® Pet Hospital
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Banfield Pet Hospital was founded in Portland, Ore. in 1955 and today is a pioneer in preventive veterinary care with more than 1,000 general veterinary hospitals in 42 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and Mexico. More than 3,600 Banfield veterinarians are committed to providing high-quality veterinary care to over three million pets annually. As part of the Mars Veterinary Health family of practices, Banfield is committed to its purpose — A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS® — because pets make a better world for us. Visit Banfield.com to learn more or find a location near you.
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