Traveling with your pet

When traveling with your pet interstate by air, you'll need to ensure you have all the necessary documents to comply with regulations. Here's a checklist of commonly required documents:

1. Health Certificate: Typically issued by a licensed veterinarian within a specific timeframe before your departure (usually within 10 days to a month). This certificate confirms that your pet is healthy and fit to travel.
2. Vaccination Records: Ensure your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date, particularly rabies vaccination, which is often mandatory for interstate and international travel.
3. Pet Identification: Make sure your pet has a collar with identification tags containing your contact information. Microchipping your pet is also recommended as a more permanent form of identification.
4. Travel Crate or Carrier: Airlines usually require pets to travel in an airline-approved crate or carrier. Make sure it meets the airline's size and safety regulations.
5. Flight Reservation and Pet Booking: Inform the airline that you'll be traveling with a pet when booking your flight. There may be restrictions on the number of pets allowed on board, so it's best to confirm in advance.
6. Any Additional Documentation: Depending on the airline and specific requirements of the destination state, additional documentation may be needed. It's essential to check with both the airline and the relevant authorities well in advance of your travel date.

Remember to double-check all requirements with the airline you're flying with and the relevant authorities for your destination state to avoid any last-minute issues.

 For international travel with your pet by air, you'll need to ensure you have all the necessary documents to comply with both the airline's requirements and the regulations of the destination country. Here's a comprehensive checklist: 

1. Schedule an Appointment with a USDA Accredited Veterinarian: Not all veterinarians are accredited by the USDA to issue health certificates for international travel. Ensure you visit a veterinarian who is authorized by the USDA to perform this service.

2. Health Examination: Your veterinarian will conduct a thorough health examination of your pet to ensure they are healthy and fit for travel. This examination typically includes checking for signs of infectious diseases and ensuring that all vaccinations are up-to-date.

3. Completion of USDA APHIS 7001 Form: If your pet passes the health examination, the accredited veterinarian will complete the APHIS 7001 form. This form certifies that your pet meets the health requirements for export as specified by the destination country.

4. Endorsement by USDA: Once the APHIS 7001 form is completed, it must be submitted by your veterinarian to the USDA for endorsement. The USDA will review the form to ensure that it is filled out correctly and meets the requirements of the destination country.

5. Travel with the Certificate: Once the APHIS 7001 form is endorsed by the USDA, you will receive the original certificate. This certificate must accompany your pet during travel and may be required for entry into the destination country.

6. Check Destination Country Requirements: It's essential to research and understand the specific requirements for pet travel imposed by the destination country. Some countries may have additional documentation or quarantine requirements beyond the USDA certification.

Obtaining USDA certification is a crucial step in ensuring that your pet meets the necessary health requirements for international travel. Be sure to start this process well in advance of your travel date, as it may take time to schedule an appointment with a USDA-accredited veterinarian and obtain the necessary paperwork.

Remember to double-check all requirements with the airline you're flying with and the relevant authorities for your destination state to avoid any last-minute issues.