When you travel from North Florida to a destination in another state or country, you need to have a certificate that shows your dog or cat meets animal health requirements specific for that destination. Our veterinarian in Lake City, FL, offers a health certificate for dogs and cats.
Fortunately, Florida does not have any requirements for moving pets within the state. The state does require all dogs and cats ages 4 months and older have a current rabies vaccination approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
The moment you know your travel details, contact North Florida Veterinary Services to help you with the pet travel process.
Lake City, Florida Veterinarian Offers Health Certificates for Dogs and Cats
If you plan to sell a dog or cat in Florida, your pet will need a health certificate from a veterinarian. This certificate verifies that your dog or cat has received all required vaccinations. The certificate indicates that It also shows that a veterinarian has given the animal a clean bill of health. Both vaccinations and a clean bill of health are important for selling pedigree and non-pedigree pets. Having a health certificate helps prevent the spread of diseases during travel or the sale of a pet.
Only accredited veterinarians can provide a health certificate or certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI). North Florida Veterinary Services has accredited veterinarians. Your pet does not need to meet all of the requirements prior to certification – our veterinarian can take care of vaccinations, examinations, and treatments your dog or cat may need while we help you take care of the certification paperwork.
Factors to Consider When Getting a Health Certificate for Your Cats or Dogs
You will need to consider a number of factors when getting a health certificate for your dog or cat. These factors include:
- The time frame for obtaining a health certificate
- Each pet’s vaccination history and the possible need to update your dog or cat’s vaccinations
- Having diagnostic testing done to meet the destination’s requirements
- Any medications or treatments your pet must receive at the new destination
- Health certificates are good for only 30 days after they are issued
- The specific guidelines of health certifications depend largely on the reasons you are requesting one. Our veterinarian can help you navigate and fulfill the requirements of the certification.
There are two types of certificates: one that approves your pet for travel within the continental United States, and one that approves the dog or cat for international travel. Each country has its own health requirements for pets. Only pets in good health are allowed to travel by boat or plane.
Timeline for Interstate and International Travel with Dogs and Cats
It can take several weeks or even months to prepare for international or international travel with your cat or dog.
Six months prior to travel
- Make sure you understand the requirements for bringing your dog or cat to the destination. Find out if and how you should transport the animal, the requirements that must be met, and what to do if you cannot transport the dog or cat.
- Make sure the destination allows you to bring the species of animal.
- If you are traveling by air, rail, boat or bus, find out if the line allows you to bring your cat or dog.
Three months before traveling
- Verify that the destination’s requirements have not changed
- Make arrangements for animal care while you are in transit and after your arrival
- Make alternate arrangements for the care of your cat or dog in case your travel plans change
- Create a list of all the supplies your dog or cat will need while traveling and after arrival to their destination
Days before traveling
- Verify that the destination’s requirements have not changed
- Purchase and pack all your pet’s travel supplies, including all medications and equipment your dog or cat will need for the duration of the trip
- Bring your dog or cat to North Florida Veterinary Services to obtain a health certificate
For more information on health certificates for dogs and cats for interstate and international travel, consult with the veterinarians at North Florida Veterinary Services.
