International Health Certificates
Are you getting ready to travel to another country with your pet? Before you head out, you need to get an International Health Certificate for your furry friend. We’ve put together some helpful info to make traveling with your pet a little easier.
First off, it’s important to know that the process can be trickier than you might think. Every country has its own rules, so you’ll need different documents to show that your pet is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. Getting these documents can take time, sometimes up to six months!
We’re here to help you every step of the way! Our friendly team can assist you with the necessary testing, vaccinations, and check-ups, and we can fill out and sign all the important forms you’ll need.
We also want to make sure you’re prepared, so please check out our Pet Travel Checklist before you come to our office for your International Health Certificate. And don’t wait too long to get in touch with us as soon as you’re thinking about international travel. Getting everything sorted for the certificate can take a while, so it’s best to start early for a smoother journey!
Step 1
Call or text us at (847) 356-8387 as soon as you have your travel plans set. The entire process may take some time from start to finish, so the earlier you get started, the better!
Step 2
Click on the button link below to fill out the preliminary health certificate questions. Please provide as much information as possible.
Step 3
Please verify whether your destination requires a specific health certificate or if it accepts the USDA’s certificate, commonly referred to as APHIS Form 7001.
Step 4
Attention: Starting August 1st, 2024, the CDC has issued new guidelines for pet’s entering or returning to the country. Click the button link to view and fill out the form. More information about the CDC requirements can be found here.
Step 5
Certain destinations mandate that pets be microchipped. If this is the case, we can implant a microchip, approximately the size of a grain of rice, containing a unique identification number linked to your contact information. We will provide the necessary documentation and assist with the chip registration process.
Step 6
Come see us to get help wrapping up your pet’s health certificate and paperwork! Don’t forget to bring along any important documents, and have a safe journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of pets do you offer international health certificates for?
Currently we offer international health certificates for cats and dogs.
Does my pet need an appointment?
Yes, your pet will need an appointment for all paperwork to be verified by a veterinarian.
Why do health certificates take so long?
Taking care of sick animals is really important, and countries want to make sure that every pet that arrives is healthy and happy through vaccinations. It’s good to keep in mind that vaccines don’t kick in right away; pets need some time to build up those important antibodies, and that can sometimes take several months. Plus, some countries even ask for a titer test, which checks how well your pet’s immune system is responding to the vaccine.