Dog Health Certificate: Complete Guide for Pet Owners
Planning to travel with your dog or move to a new state? You'll likely need a health certificate. This comprehensive guide explains when you need one, what's involved, and how to prepare for the veterinary examination.
What is a Dog Health Certificate?
A health certificate (also called a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection or CVI) is an official document issued by a licensed veterinarian that confirms your dog is healthy and free from contagious diseases. It's required for various situations including travel, relocation, and certain activities.
Health Certificates Are Required For:
- Air Travel: Domestic flights (some airlines) and all international travel
- Interstate Travel: Moving between certain states
- Dog Shows: Most competitions and events
- Boarding: Some kennels and boarding facilities
- International Export: Moving to another country
Types of Health Certificates
Interstate Health Certificate: Required for travel between states. Valid for 30 days from issue date. Must be issued by an accredited veterinarian.
International Health Certificate: Required for international travel. Must be endorsed by USDA-APHIS. Validity varies by destination country (typically 10-14 days).
Exhibition/Event Certificate: For dog shows, competitions, and events. Requirements vary by organization and event type.
What's Included in the Examination
Standard Health Certificate Exam Includes:
- • Complete physical examination
- • Verification of current vaccinations (rabies required)
- • Review of medical history
- • Assessment for signs of infectious diseases
- • Evaluation of overall health status
- • Microchip verification (if applicable)
Need to organize your dog's vaccination records before getting a health certificate?
Upload all your dog's medical records to VetLens to have everything organized and easily accessible for your vet visit. No more digging through paperwork!
Try VetLens FreeRequired Vaccinations
Always Required:
- • Rabies: Must be current and administered at least 21 days prior
Often Required: DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza), Bordetella (kennel cough), and additional vaccines based on destination requirements.
Cost and Timeline
Typical Costs:
- Interstate Certificate: $50-$150
- International Certificate: $150-$300+
- USDA Endorsement: Additional $38-$173
- Rush Processing: Additional fees may apply
*Costs vary by location and veterinarian
Validity Periods and Timing
- Interstate Travel: 30 days from issue date
- International Travel: Typically 10-14 days (varies by country)
- Air Travel: Usually 10 days before departure
- Events/Shows: Varies by organization (often 30 days)
Important Timing Note:
Schedule your appointment well in advance, especially for international travel. USDA endorsement can take 1-2 weeks, and some countries have additional requirements that take time to fulfill.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
- • Gather all vaccination records and previous health certificates
- • Research destination-specific requirements
- • Ensure your dog is up-to-date on all required vaccinations
- • Schedule the appointment at the right time (not too early, not too late)
- • Prepare a list of any recent illnesses or treatments
- • Bring identification and proof of ownership
State-Specific Requirements
Different states have varying requirements. Some common variations include:
- • Additional testing for specific diseases (brucellosis, heartworm)
- • Parasite treatment requirements
- • Quarantine periods for certain states
- • Special entry points or inspection procedures
Research Tip: Check both your departure and destination state's requirements. Contact the state veterinarian's office or visit their website for the most current information.
Streamline Your Health Certificate Process
Use VetLens to:
- ✓ Keep all vaccination records organized and accessible
- ✓ Track vaccination due dates to stay current
- ✓ Store previous health certificates for reference
- ✓ Create a complete medical history summary for your vet
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any veterinarian issue a health certificate?
For interstate travel, the veterinarian must be accredited by the USDA. For international travel, additional endorsement by USDA-APHIS is typically required. Not all veterinarians are accredited, so confirm beforehand.
What if my dog fails the health examination?
If your dog shows signs of illness or doesn't meet requirements, the veterinarian cannot issue a health certificate. You'll need to address any health issues and reschedule the examination.
Do I need a health certificate for every trip?
Yes, health certificates are single-use documents. Each trip requires a new certificate, even if you're returning to a place you've been before.
What happens if my health certificate expires during travel?
An expired health certificate is invalid. Plan your timeline carefully to ensure the certificate remains valid throughout your entire trip, including return travel if applicable.