USDA-Certified Veterinarians for International & Domestic Pet Health Certificates
Planning an international trip with your pet? As a USDA and federally accredited veterinary practice, we specialize in issuing Certificates of Veterinary Inspection (CVIs) and all necessary documentation to ensure your pet can travel safely and legally to any destination worldwide.
Comprehensive Support for International Pet Travel
Navigating the complex requirements for international pet travel can be challenging. Our experienced team will guide you through every step, from initial consultations to completing all required testing, services, medications, and documentation. We ensure all procedures are correctly followed, so your pet’s journey is smooth and stress-free.
Plan Ahead: Timeline and Requirements
International pet travel requires careful planning. Some destinations have stringent requirements that may take more than six months to fulfill. We recommend contacting our office well in advance of your travel date to discuss the specific regulations and timeline needed for your pet’s destination.
Countries We’ve Successfully Served
We have extensive experience in providing international health certificates for pets traveling to countries across the globe, including Germany, Argentina, Belarus, Norway, France, Costa Rica, and many more.
Learn More and Schedule a Consultation
For more detailed information about international health certificates, visit this USDA resource. Ready to start the process? Call us at (239) 369-0555 to speak with an associate and ensure your pet is ready for their international adventure.
FAQs: International Health Certificates for Pets
What is an International Health Certificate for Pets?
An International Health Certificate is an official document issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian that verifies your pet meets the health requirements to enter another country. This certificate ensures that your pet is healthy, vaccinated, and free of contagious diseases before traveling abroad.
How do I know if my pet needs an International Health Certificate?
If you are planning to travel internationally with your pet, most countries require an International Health Certificate. This document is mandatory for pets entering a foreign country and must be presented at customs upon arrival.
How far in advance should I start the process of obtaining an International Health Certificate?
The timeline varies depending on your destination. Some countries have requirements that must be met several months in advance, such as specific vaccinations, blood tests, or quarantine periods. We recommend starting the process at least 6 months before your planned travel date to ensure all requirements are met.
What information is included in an International Health Certificate?
The certificate typically includes your pet’s identification details, vaccination records, results of any required tests, and confirmation that your pet is healthy and fit for travel. It also includes the USDA endorsement if required by the destination country.
Can any veterinarian issue an International Health Certificate?
No, only veterinarians who are USDA-accredited and federally licensed can issue International Health Certificates. The veterinarians at Animal Medical Center of Lehigh Acres are USDA accredited & licensed.
Do I need to visit the USDA office for an endorsement?
For certain destinations, the International Health Certificate must be endorsed by the USDA. After your accredited veterinarian issues the certificate, it may need to be sent to a USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) office for final approval.
What vaccinations and tests are typically required for an International Health Certificate?
Requirements vary by country, but common requirements include rabies vaccination, microchipping, and specific blood tests (such as a rabies titer test). Some countries may also require treatment for parasites like tapeworms or ticks.
What should I do if my travel plans change after I’ve obtained the certificate?
If your travel date changes, it’s important to check whether your International Health Certificate is still valid. Some certificates are only valid for a specific period (e.g., 10 days). You may need to obtain a new certificate or update the existing one if your plans change.
Can my pet travel without an International Health Certificate?
No, traveling without an International Health Certificate can result in your pet being denied entry into the destination country, being quarantined, or even being sent back to the country of origin. It’s essential to ensure all required documentation is in place before departure.
What countries have the strictest requirements for pet travel?
Countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan are known for having strict pet travel regulations. These may include lengthy quarantine periods, specific vaccinations, and detailed documentation requirements.
How can I ensure that my pet’s travel documents are correct?
Working with a USDA-accredited veterinarian familiar with international pet travel is the best way to ensure all documents are correct. They will help you navigate the process, complete all necessary steps, and provide you with the required paperwork.
Where can I find more information about the requirements for specific countries?
You can find detailed information about the pet travel requirements for specific countries on the USDA APHIS Pet Travel website or by calling our office at (239) 369-0555 today.