Pet Travel Certificate

A health certificate for pet travel verifies that your pet is free from infectious diseases and up-to-date with vaccinations, as certified by a licensed veterinarian​​.

The cost of a pet travel certificate can range from $35 to $300, depending on the complexity of the required documentation​​.

A pet travel certificate is typically valid for 10 days from the date of issue for international travel, but this can vary depending on the destination country​​.

To fly with your pet, you typically need the following:
• A rabies vaccination certificate
• A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (also known as a pet health certificate)
• An acclimation certificate (depending on the airline and the destination's climate conditions). 

You should also check with your airline for any additional requirements​​.

Obtaining a USDA pet travel certificate involves getting a health check from a federally accredited veterinarian who can issue the necessary documentation. The entire process can vary in duration depending on appointment availability and the specific requirements of the destination country. It's advisable to start this process well in advance of your travel dates​​.

TSA itself does not require a health certificate for pet travel for domestic flights. However, most airlines do require a pet health certificate for both domestic and international travel. It's best to check directly with your airline for their specific policies​​.

Normally, only service animals can fly for free. Pets typically require a paid ticket, which varies in price by airline​​.

Generally, pets are required to stay in their carrier under the seat in front of you throughout the flight. They are not allowed to sit on your lap during a flight​​.

Yes, airlines usually check pet health certificates at check-in to ensure that all health and vaccination requirements are met as per their specific policies and the regulations of the destination​​.

An international health certificate for a dog includes a detailed veterinary inspection to certify the dog's health status and vaccination record, especially against rabies, and must be endorsed by the relevant government authority if required​​.

When flying with a pet, you should book your flight as early as possible, ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date, obtain the necessary health documentation, and familiarize your pet with its carrier. Always check with the airline about specific pet policies​​.

At the airport, TSA conducts a security screening of your pet. You'll need to remove your pet from its carrier, and the carrier will go through the X-ray machine while you carry or walk your pet through the metal detector​​.

Airlines have specific size restrictions for pets flying in the cabin, generally requiring the pet and its carrier to fit under the seat in front of you. The allowed dimensions for carriers vary by airline, so it's important to check with your carrier in advance​​.