USDA APHIS guide
USDA APHIS pet travel requirements
A plain-language overview of the federal pet travel rules that affect dogs and cats moving across state lines or leaving the United States — and how CVI Ready coordinates the veterinary appointment behind the paperwork.
What USDA APHIS does
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) sets the federal framework for animal health during travel. It accredits veterinarians to complete Certificates of Veterinary Inspection and publishes guidance for interstate and international pet movement.
Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI)
A CVI is the official health certificate an accredited veterinarian completes after examining your pet. Airlines, ground transporters, and many states require a current CVI before travel.
Rabies vaccination documentation
Current rabies vaccination records are the most commonly requested document for dogs and cats. The certificate should show the vaccine date, product, and the veterinarian who administered it.
Destination rules vary
Each state and country sets its own entry requirements. Some require only a CVI and rabies certificate; others ask for additional testing, treatments, or timing windows. Always confirm the latest rules with your destination's animal-health authority.
Airlines and transporters may ask for more
Carriers often impose their own health-certificate and documentation rules that are stricter than state or federal requirements. Check with your airline or ground transporter well before departure.
Start with your destination state
State animal-health authorities publish the exact requirements for entry. Our state-by-state hub links to each authority and explains what most pet owners need to prepare.
We’ll book the veterinary appointment for you.
CVI Ready finds a clinic that handles travel health certificates, confirms it can meet your dates and driving radius, and books the exam. 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.