Planning a trip with your pet? Pajaro Valley Veterinary Hospital offers domestic and international health certificates to ensure your pet meets all travel requirements. Our team will guide you through the process, verify your pet’s health, and complete the necessary paperwork so your travels go smoothly and safely.

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Please contact us in advance to schedule your appointment and confirm travel requirements for your destination.

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Don't let paperwork ground your travel plans. Our knowledgeable team is ready to guide you through every step.

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Call Pajaro Valley Veterinary Hospital today at 831-722-3364 to schedule your pet's travel consultation.

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What is a Pet Health Certificate?

 

A travel health certificate, also known as a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), is an official document issued by an accredited veterinarian. It states that your pet has been examined and found to be:

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• In good health and fit for travel.

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• Free from signs of infectious or contagious diseases.

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• Up-to-date on all required vaccinations (especially rabies).

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This certificate is required by all major airlines and for entry into most U.S. states and all foreign countries.

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Domestic Travel (Within the United States)

 

If you are flying with your pet to another state, you will almost certainly need a domestic health certificate.

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• Timeline: Most airlines and states require the certificate to be issued within 10 days of your travel date.

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• Requirements: A domestic CVI typically involves:
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  • Proof of a current rabies vaccination.
     

  • Verification that your pet is free from parasites.
     

• A comprehensive physical examination.
   

Note: Always check with your specific airline and the state animal health requirements for your destination, as rules can vary.

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International Travel (Including Hawaii & U.S. Territories)

 

International travel with a pet is a much more complex and lengthy process. Each country has its own specific set of rules, which may require months of advance planning.

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• Timeline: Start planning 4-6 months (or more) BEFORE your trip. Some rabies-free countries (like Australia or Japan) have quarantine and testing requirements that take over six months to complete.
   

• Requirements: International travel almost always requires:
   

  • USDA Endorsement: The health certificate must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and then endorsed (stamped and signed) by the USDA-APHIS.
     

  • ISO Microchip: Most countries require a specific 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip.
     

  • Rabies Titer Test (FAVN): Many countries require a blood test to confirm your pet's rabies vaccine is working. This test must be done after the microchip is implanted and often has a long waiting period.
     

  • Specific Vaccinations & Treatments: This may include specific parasite treatments, tests, or other vaccines given within a very strict timeframe.