PET TRAVEL

Traveling with you pet can be a complicated process but not if you plan ahead.

What you may need:

A health certificate
A health certificate is a form signed by your veterinarian after a physical exam has been performed determining that your pet is healthy and up to date on vaccines.  Set up an appointment before you are ready to travel.  It is best to have the appointment within 2 weeks of travel but check with your airlines as to find out how soon before departure you must have the certificate.

If you are DRIVING with your pet within the United States:
  • Be sure your pet’s exam and vaccinations are up to date.
  • Bring your pet’s medical records with you (in case of emergency).
  • Have a copy of your pet’s rabies certificate with you at all times.
  • If you are staying in a hotel, be sure pets are allowed, that the hotel knows you are with a pet, and that you have all the proper documentation (i.e.: health certificate and rabies certificate).

    • If you are FLYING with your pet within the United States
     Follow the instructions for “driving with your pet within the United States” AND Call the airlines to check the following:
  • What are the Health certificate requirements?
  • Will the pet be flown in the passenger compartment or in baggage and in what type of kennel?
    • Also it is important to know what temperature regulations they have for flying pets in the baggage compartment to be sure that your pet will travel safely
    If you are traveling with your pet internationally:
    Follow the instructions for “flying with your Pet in the United States” AND Contact the USDA to find out the requirements of the country you are entering.  Many countries require blood titers, vaccinations at certain intervals, special microchips, etc.  You may need to consult the consulate of the country to confirm what you need.  Plan ahead.  Once you find out what is required, make an appointment with a veterinarian, who is certified to sign off on an international health certificate (USDA Certification). If you are flying, make sure you also meet the requirements for that airline.

    Other resources for PET TRAVEL    :
    PetTravel.com
    AAA.com

    TRAVEL SAFE