Michigan pet travel requirements
Michigan applies standard CVI and rabies requirements for dogs and cats entering the state, with one additional restriction aimed at commercial and shelter transfers.
What Michigan specifically expects
- Standard CVI and current rabies vaccination requirements apply to dogs and cats entering Michigan.
- Michigan law (MCL 287.335a) prohibits pet shops and animal shelters from importing dogs or cats under 8 weeks of age.
- The minimum-age restriction targets commercial and shelter movement rather than owners traveling with their own pets.
- MDARD's Animal Industry Division publishes the current dog and cat movement requirements.
The general picture
Certificate of Veterinary Inspection
Most interstate movements into Michigan are documented with a CVI completed by a licensed, accredited veterinarian after examining your pet. Airlines, ground transporters, and receiving organizations frequently require one even when the state does not.
Rabies vaccination documentation
Current rabies vaccination documentation is the record requested most often for dogs and cats entering Michigan. Bring or upload the certificate showing the vaccine date, product, and administering veterinarian.
Timing window
Health certificates are typically expected to be issued within a short window before travel, and the exact window depends on your destination and transport method. Clinic availability is usually the real bottleneck, so book the exam early.
Who sets the rules
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Animal Industry Division is the animal-health authority for Michigan. Requirements change, so confirm current rules with that authority and with your airline or transporter before travel.
Check the official source
Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Animal Industry Division publishes the current entry requirements for Michigan. Rules change, and your airline or transporter may require more.
Official MI pet entry requirementsWe’ll book the Michigan appointment for you.
CVI Ready identifies a veterinary clinic that handles travel health certificates, confirms it can meet your dates and driving radius, and books the appointment. If we can’t secure a qualifying appointment, your coordination fee is refunded.
Starting at $89 · Veterinary fees paid directly to the clinic
This page is general information, not veterinary or legal advice. CVI Ready is an independent pet travel coordination service, not a veterinary practice. Certificate issuance and all medical decisions are made by the licensed veterinarian who examines your pet.