If you’re planning to travel with your pet, either within the U.S. or to another country, it’s important to know the requirements for a pet health certificate. This is an official document that confirms your pet is healthy and fit to travel.
A pet health certificate is issued by a licensed, accredited veterinarian after examining your pet, reviewing their vaccination records, and screening them for parasites and diseases if required. This is a service we provide here at Papaya Veterinary Care in Carmel Valley.
Why are pet health certificates required?
These certificates help protect pets, other animals and humans from the spread of disease and ensure that your pet meets the health requirements of your destination country. In fact, without a health certificate, pets may be denied entry or quarantined on arrival.
Types of pet health certificates
There are two types of pet health certificates:
- Domestic travel—A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) is often necessary for travel within the U.S. Your destination state or territory may have specific health requirements such as updated vaccinations and specific health statements.
- International travel—More comprehensive documentation is typically required:
- USDA APHIS Form 7001 for non-EU countries (your veterinarian must be USDA-accredited if your destination country requires this endorsement of your pet’s health)
- EU Health Certificate for European destinations
Fortunately, both of our veterinarians are USDA APHIS-accredited and can write health certificates for all domestic and international pet travel and relocation.
When to get a health certificate for your pet
Most health certificates remain valid for just 10 days from the date of issue. This narrow timeframe ensures that the information about your pet’s health status is current. So you should plan your veterinary visit within 10 days of your departure date. If you are unsure, schedule an advance visit to double check your paperwork and requirements with one of our veterinarians.
Schedule your visit today
Make sure your pet is healthy and legally ready for travel by scheduling a visit to obtain a health certificate. Call us now at 619-880-8986 or book online.
