Can't bear to leave your furry friend behind when you travel internationally? If you're planning to travel with your pet to another country, you'll likely need proper documentation. While not an official passport, "pet passports" include information about your pet's health and vaccination records. Each country has its own requirements; here's what you need to know.
If you’re jetting off from the U.S. to a European Union country, you'll need a detailed veterinary certificate with proof of rabies vaccination, a microchip ID and a non-commercial declaration (meaning you’re not selling or transferring the animal) before entering. The certificate has to be issued by an accredited vet no more than 10 days before arrival, and the certificate is valid for just four months. Don't take these requirements lightly, because without them your pal could be sent back, quarantined or, in extreme cases, euthanized.
Heading south to Mexico? The process is bit looser—no pet passport needed—but animals are inspected for disease or injury upon arrival. Coming back to the U.S., dogs must be tested for screwworm. Yes, it’s as nasty as it sounds.
Even domestic travel isn’t a total free-for-all. While the U.S. doesn’t issue national pet passports, some states require a vet-issued certificate of health, especially if you're driving across borders. For example, Texas mandates rabies vaccinations for all dogs and cats entering the state.
To find out what your destination country requires, check out the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website. The Travel with a Pet page has up-to-date info and country-specific guidance. And, of course, talk to your vet—they can issue the right paperwork and walk you through what’s needed based on your destination.
If you’re flying with a service animal, know that airlines have their own rules. The animal must be trained to assist a person with a recognized disability, and documentation may still be required. Emotional support animals don’t make the cut anymore.
So before you fly with your pet, know the rules and get everything you need in advance so you and your fur baby can start your next adventure stress-free.