Domestic travel certificates for cats & dogs
If you’d like to take your cat or dog with you when traveling domestically within the United States, you’ll generally need to provide a travel certificate of some sorts, or at the very least, vaccination records signed by your veterinarian.
The regulations vary depending on which state you’re traveling to, and how you’re getting there – certain airlines have different requirements and specific forms for you to fill out about your pet. Our doctors can advise on what exactly you need. You can also quickly reference the USDA’s State-to-State website detailing interstate travel requirements.
International travel certificates for cats & dogs
If you’re planning on taking your pet abroad, it’s important to plan ahead. Some countries have strict health requirements and restrictions on entry; for example, many countries require your pet to have received a current rabies vaccination no less than 30 days before travel. Some countries may also require your pet to be quarantined for a certain amount of time upon arrival.
Additionally the CDC has recently updated their regulations for rabies documentation for dogs entering the U.S. from both high-risk and low-risk countries. You can reference those changes in detail here.
Many of our doctors are USDA-accredited, which means they can complete the paperwork required for your pet’s international travel. Please contact us before booking your appointment, so we can determine the exact requirements for your planned travel and ensure you’re able to get the travel certificate you need. You may also find the USDA’s Pet Travel website helpful.
In order to ensure that we can accommodate your certification needs, Small Door requests that you start the international travel certification process 30 or more days in advance, with a minimum requirement of 3 weeks (15 business days Monday to Friday). If you are traveling with a dog, due to the CDC Rabies requirements updates, we recommend starting the process 60 days or more in advance.
What to take with you when traveling with your cat or dog
When packing your bags, make sure you’ve got everything you need for your furry family member. As well as all their usual creature comforts, make sure you have:
Records: Physical and digital copies of their travel certificate, vaccine records and any other important medical records.
Emergency contact: A contact number for the nearest emergency veterinary hospital at your destination.
Medication: A good supply of any medication your pet takes.
ID tag: An ID tag with your cell phone number (and if appropriate, the country code needed to call from your destination).
Microchip: Ensure your pet has the correct microchip for your destination (we can check for you) and that your contact details with the microchip company are up to date.
Carrier: A crate or pet carrier that’s approved for travel. If you’re traveling by plane, your airline will have different requirements depending on whether your pet is traveling in the cabin with you, or as cargo. Cabin carriers must allow sufficient room for your pet to stand up, turn around and lie down, and must also fit under the seat in front of you. Cargo pet carriers must again allow sufficient room, and must be made of rigid materials. Check with your airline for specific requirements.
Water bowl: A travel water bowl to keep them hydrated.
Our app: Download our app to make sure you can contact us for advice if you’re ever concerned about your pet while you’re away. Our medical team is available on the app 24/7, so no matter what time zone you’re in, we’re here for you!