Washington pet travel requirements
Washington requires a CVI for dogs, cats, and ferrets under WAC 16-54-170, and it applies additional scrutiny to rescue and rehomed animals.
What Washington specifically expects
- A CVI is required for dogs, cats, and ferrets entering Washington (WAC 16-54-170).
- The certificate must show identification and certify current rabies vaccination per the vaccine label.
- The animal must not originate from a rabies-quarantined area.
- Rescue, shelter, and rehomed animals are subject to additional requirements beyond a standard CVI.
The general picture
Certificate of Veterinary Inspection
Most interstate movements into Washington 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 Washington. 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
Washington State Department of Agriculture, Animal Health Program is the animal-health authority for Washington. Requirements change, so confirm current rules with that authority and with your airline or transporter before travel.
Check the official source
Washington State Department of Agriculture, Animal Health Program publishes the current entry requirements for Washington. Rules change, and your airline or transporter may require more.
Official WA pet entry requirementsWe’ll book the Washington 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.