Pet Travel Planning: Domestic and International
Springs Road Animal Hospital provides USDA-accredited travel paperwork and pre-trip exams for the dogs and cats of Hickory. Whether you’re crossing state lines or crossing oceans, our team can help you navigate the documentation, timelines, and health requirements that go with bringing your pet along.
Pet Travel Paperwork Done Right, the First Time
Traveling with a pet is rewarding, but the paperwork and preparation side of it can be a bit overwhelming. Different destinations have different rules, airlines layer their own requirements on top, and the timing of exams and endorsements matters more than people realize. The good news: the veterinarians at Springs Road Animal Hospital are USDA-accredited, which means we can handle the health certificates and documentation needed for both domestic and international pet travel.
The earlier you start, the smoother the process. We recommend reaching out as soon as you know your travel details — for international trips and trips to Hawaii, preparations often need to begin many months in advance.
Domestic Pet Travel
If you’re traveling between U.S. states or territories with your dog or cat, your destination may require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate), updated vaccinations, or specific testing.
- Health certificates are time-sensitive — most are valid for 10 to 30 days from the date of issuance
- Rabies vaccination is required almost everywhere in the U.S.
- Some states have additional requirements that vary by destination
- Make sure your contact information is current with your microchip provider before you travel
For a state-by-state breakdown, the USDA-APHIS website is the authoritative source.
International Pet Travel
International pet travel is more involved than domestic travel. Each country sets its own entry requirements, which can include specific vaccinations, blood titer tests, parasite treatments, microchip standards, USDA-endorsed health certificates, and quarantine periods on arrival. The most important thing to know is that timing matters enormously.
The general process for international travel includes:
- Identify your destination’s requirements as early as possible
- Schedule a pre-travel exam with a USDA-accredited veterinarian (that’s us)
- Complete required vaccinations, tests, and treatments within your destination’s timing windows
- Obtain the health certificate and submit it to the USDA for endorsement
- Travel with original signed documentation in hand
For country-specific requirements, start at the USDA-APHIS pet travel website.
How Springs Road Can Help
- Perform the pre-travel physical exam your destination requires
- Verify and update vaccinations, parasite prevention, and required testing
- Issue the health certificate for both domestic and international travel
- Coordinate USDA endorsement for international destinations
- Help you understand timelines so nothing slips through the cracks
To schedule a travel consultation, call us at (828) 256-2151.