Traveling Internationally with Your Pet
Traveling internationally with your dog or cat involves specific health requirements, documentation, and timelines that vary by country. Our team at Mt. Airy Animal Hospital and Andorra Veterinary Clinic is here to guide you through the entire process.
Our USDA-accredited veterinarian, Dr. Marisa Brunetti, prepares the required health certificates and ensures your pet meets all regulations for safe and compliant travel outside of the United States.
Because international requirements can be complex and time-sensitive, we strongly recommend starting the process several months before your planned departure date.
What to Expect When Traveling Internationally with Your Pet
We guide you step by step to ensure everything is completed correctly and on time.
1. Initial Consultation
We review your destination, travel date, and your pet’s medical history to determine specific requirements.
2. Preparation & Requirements
Your pet may need vaccinations, testing, or microchip verification depending on the country.
3. Final Health Exam
A USDA-accredited exam must be completed within a required timeframe before travel.
4. Paperwork & USDA Endorsement
We complete all necessary documents and coordinate USDA endorsement when required.
Start Early for International Travel
International travel requirements vary widely by country and often involve strict timelines. Starting early helps avoid delays and ensures your pet is fully prepared for travel.
We recommend beginning the process several months in advance of your departure date.
Country-Specific Requirements
Every destination has unique regulations that must be followed carefully.
Multiple Visits May Be Required
Most pets need more than one visit to complete all necessary steps.
Testing & Waiting Periods
Some countries require blood tests and mandatory waiting periods before travel.
Timing Is Critical
The final health certificate must be completed close to your travel date.
International Health Certificate Cost
The cost for an International Health Certificate is $350, which includes:
- Two examinations with our USDA-accredited veterinarian
- Phone and email guidance leading up to travel
- Completion of all required paperwork
- USDA endorsement fee
Additional costs may apply for required vaccinations, testing, or treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an International Health Certificate?
An International Health Certificate (IHC) is an official veterinary document that confirms your pet is healthy and meets the entry requirements of your destination country. It must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and may also require USDA endorsement.
How far in advance should I start planning international travel with my pet?
We recommend starting the process at least 2–4 months before your travel date, and sometimes earlier depending on your destination. Some countries require vaccinations, blood tests, or waiting periods that must be completed well in advance.
Do all countries have the same requirements?
No—each country has its own rules for pet travel. Requirements may include vaccinations, microchipping, blood testing, parasite treatments, and specific timing for exams and paperwork. Our team will review your destination’s requirements with you during your consultation.
Does my pet need a microchip?
Most countries require pets to have an ISO-compliant microchip for identification. If your pet does not already have one, we can place it during your visit.
Will my pet need additional vaccinations or testing?
Possibly. Many countries require a current rabies vaccination, and some require additional steps such as rabies titer testing, parasite treatments, or specific vaccine timing. We will review your pet’s records and guide you on what’s needed.
How many appointments will my pet need?
Most international travel cases require 2–3 visits, which may include an initial consultation, any required vaccines or testing, and a final health certificate exam close to your travel date.
When does the final health certificate exam need to happen?
The final exam must be completed within a specific timeframe before travel—often within 7–10 days of departure. Timing depends on your destination and airline requirements.
Does the USDA need to approve the health certificate?
Many countries require USDA endorsement after the certificate is completed. This may be done electronically or through document submission. Our team will guide you through this process if needed.
Does the airline have additional requirements?
Yes. Airlines often have their own policies, including crate specifications and documentation requirements. We recommend contacting your airline early to confirm their rules.
Can you guarantee my pet will be allowed into the destination country?
While we ensure all documentation is completed correctly, final approval is determined by the destination country and the airline. Requirements can change, which is why early planning is so important.
How do I schedule an appointment?
To schedule an International Health Certificate consultation, please contact our team. Be prepared to provide your destination, travel date, and your pet’s medical and microchip information.
