Smooth Travels Start With a Health Certificate
When traveling across state lines or internationally, pets are legally required to have an up-to-date health or travel certificate. These certificates ensure that your pet is healthy, properly vaccinated, and fit for travel. Most airlines and destinations have strict requirements, and in many cases, pets will not be allowed to board a plane or enter a new region without official documentation from a licensed veterinarian.
At Hartsdale Veterinary Hospital, we are authorized to issue both domestic and international travel certificates. Whether you're planning a move, a vacation, or need documentation for your pet’s safety, we’re here to guide you through the process. We recommend scheduling your visit within 10 days of travel to ensure your paperwork meets all airline and regulatory guidelines.
Book Online
Traveling With Your Pet?
Travel certificates play a vital role in protecting your pet, fellow travelers, and the environments of different regions. Before a certificate can be issued, a licensed veterinarian must examine your pet and confirm the following:
- Your pet is in good overall health and fit for travel
- There are no signs of contagious illness
- Required vaccinations are up to date
- Your pet is of appropriate age for safe travel
- The breed or species is permitted at your destination
If all these conditions are not met, the veterinarian is legally unable to issue a travel certificate.
If your pet falls short of one or more of these requirements, don’t worry — we can help. Whether it’s providing vaccines, treating underlying conditions, or addressing health concerns, we’ll work with you to prepare your pet for safe travel and certification.
Also, keep in mind that traveling can be physically and emotionally stressful for pets. In cases where the trip is non-essential, boarding your pet or arranging for them to stay with a trusted caregiver might be the kinder choice. While bringing your pet along for a long-term move or extended stay may be necessary, short vacations often aren't ideal for them.
Additionally, most airlines only allow small pets in the cabin, and those traveling in the cargo hold can face stressful conditions such as temperature extremes and isolation for long periods.
International Travel
Every country has its own set of rules for allowing animals to enter. These may include specific vaccinations, lab tests, or medical treatments. Because the requirements vary widely and change frequently, our veterinarians may not be familiar with the regulations for every destination. To ensure a smooth appointment, we strongly recommend that you contact either the USDA or the consulate of your destination country ahead of time. Be sure to confirm all entry requirements as well as the timing needed to meet them.
The USDA's pet travel website can serve as a helpful starting point, but it does not list every requirement for every country.
After your pet's health exam and once the required forms are completed, many destinations will also require that the paperwork be officially endorsed by a USDA veterinarian (not done in our office). It is your responsibility to verify whether this endorsement is necessary and to allow enough time before your trip to complete the process.
This Service Is Available for Existing Clients Only
When scheduling your health certificate appointment, you will need to provide the full address of your destination. On the day of your visit, please bring any necessary forms and a complete list of the country’s requirements.
**Note: If we do not receive your pet’s vaccination history in advance, we will not be able to keep your appointment. Health certificate appointments are detailed and require 30 to 45 minutes to complete.
Thank you for taking the time to prepare. With your cooperation, we’ll ensure your travel plans go smoothly and your pet is ready to join you safely on the journey.