Pet travel documents: what you need to fly, board or go abroad

To fly with a dog or cat you will usually need proof of rabies vaccination, a health certificate from a vet issued within a set number of days before travel, and for most international trips a microchip that matches your paperwork. Boarding kennels typically ask for rabies and core vaccines, plus kennel cough for dogs. The exact rules depend on the airline and destination, so check the official source early, because some steps take weeks or months.

Requirements change often and differ by country, airline and even route. This guide covers what is commonly asked for so you know what to look for, but always confirm the current rules for your trip.

What boarding kennels and catteries usually ask for

Most kennels and catteries want proof that your pet's vaccinations are up to date, usually with a minimum gap between the last jab and the stay. Ask when you book, because some will turn pets away on the day without the right records.

• Rabies vaccination, where required locally.
• Core combination vaccine: DHPP (also written DA2PP) for dogs, FVRCP for cats.
• Bordetella (kennel cough) for dogs, often required and sometimes needed a set number of days before arrival.
• Canine influenza at some facilities, depending on the area.
• Recent flea treatment, and sometimes worming.
• Your vet's name and phone number, and an emergency contact.

Bring the vaccine dates and clinic details, not only a certificate. Our vaccine schedule guide explains which boosters are core and how often they are due, and the flea, tick and heartworm guide covers parasite prevention.

Flying within the US

For domestic flights, the airline sets the rules. Many airlines require a health certificate, known as a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI), issued by a licensed vet within a set window before travel, often 10 days. This is more common for pets travelling as cargo, but some routes and states have their own requirements too.

Airlines also set rules on carrier size, breed restrictions, temperature limits and how many pets can fly in the cabin. Space is often limited, so book your pet's place when you book your own ticket.

Travelling abroad with a pet

International rules depend on where you are going, and sometimes on where you are coming from. These are the requirements that come up most often.

Microchip

Many destinations, including the EU and UK, require an ISO-compatible microchip (ISO 11784/11785). In many cases it must be implanted before the rabies vaccine, or the vaccine may not count. Ask your vet to scan the chip at every visit so you know it still reads.

Rabies vaccination and waiting periods

Rabies vaccination is the backbone of most pet travel rules. Many countries require a waiting period after the first rabies vaccine before your pet can enter. For the EU, it is 21 days after the primary vaccination. Keep boosters on time, because a lapse can mean starting again.

Rabies titre test

Some countries require a blood test showing your pet has responded to the rabies vaccine. The sample must go to an approved laboratory, and there may be a waiting period of months after the sample before your pet can travel. This is the step that most often catches people out.

Official health certificate

Most international trips need a health certificate completed by a vet and, in many countries, endorsed by the government veterinary authority. In the US this is USDA APHIS, and the APHIS pet travel pages list requirements by destination. The certificate usually has to be issued close to departure.

Tapeworm treatment for dogs

Dogs entering some countries, including the UK, Ireland, Finland, Norway and Malta, need tapeworm treatment given by a vet within a set window before arrival. It must be recorded on the paperwork with the date and time.

Coming into the US with a dog

The CDC has specific requirements for dogs entering the US, and these changed in 2024. Check the CDC's current dog import rules before you book, including for dogs returning from a trip abroad.

Documents checklist

Keep these together, on paper or digitally, for any trip or stay.

• Vaccination records with dates given, due dates, vaccine batch numbers and clinic name.
• Rabies certificate, signed by your vet.
• Microchip number and date implanted.
• Health certificate or official travel certificate, if required.
• Titre test results, if required.
• Tapeworm or parasite treatment records, with dates.
• Current medications, doses and timing, plus any allergies.
• Your vet's contact details and a local emergency vet at your destination.
• A recent, clear photo of your pet.
• Airline booking details and any pet acceptance confirmation.

Timeline: how far ahead to start

Timings vary a lot by destination, so treat this as a rough guide and work back from your travel date.

• Several months ahead: check destination and airline rules. If a titre test is needed, start now, as the process can take months.
• Two to three months ahead: confirm the microchip reads, and book any rabies vaccine or booster so waiting periods are covered.
• One month ahead: book the vet appointment for the health certificate at the right point before travel, and the kennel or cattery if you need one.
• Two weeks ahead: get your pet used to their carrier, and check kennel cough timing for boarding.
• Within the final days: health certificate exam and any government endorsement, plus tapeworm treatment if required.
• Day before: print or download everything, and pack food, medication and familiar bedding.

Flight day comfort and sedation

Do not sedate your pet for a flight without veterinary advice. Sedatives can affect breathing, balance and temperature control, and the risks may be higher at altitude. This matters especially for snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds such as pugs, French bulldogs and Persian cats, which some airlines will not carry in the hold at all.

• Get your pet used to the carrier well before the trip.
• Offer a light meal a few hours before the flight rather than a full one.
• Use a well-ventilated carrier with absorbent bedding and an item that smells of home.
• Talk to your vet about anxiety. There may be safer options than sedation.

Cats travel too, and the same rules on microchips, rabies and certificates usually apply. Many cats find travel stressful, so a covered carrier and a quiet routine help.

How Petify helps

Petify keeps vaccine dates, batch numbers, microchip details and medications in your pet's health records, with reminders for boosters and parasite treatments. When a kennel or sitter asks for proof, a health passport link or QR code shows only the sections you choose and can expire when you want. You can also export a PDF. Petify does not replace official certificates, which must come from your vet and, where required, the government authority.

Frequently asked questions

What documents do I need to fly with my dog?

Usually proof of rabies vaccination and a health certificate from a vet issued within the airline's window, often 10 days for domestic US flights. International trips often also need an ISO microchip, an official certificate endorsed by the government vet authority, and sometimes a titre test or tapeworm treatment. Check your airline and destination for current rules.

What vaccines do boarding kennels require?

Most kennels ask for rabies and the core combination vaccine (DHPP or DA2PP for dogs, FVRCP for cats). Many also require Bordetella for dogs, and some ask for canine influenza. Ask the kennel when you book, as they may need vaccines given a set time before the stay.

How long is a pet health certificate valid for travel?

It depends on the airline and destination. Many US airlines want a certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and international certificates often have their own validity windows. Check the requirements for your trip and time the vet appointment carefully.

Does my cat need a pet passport or health certificate?

Often, yes. Cats usually need the same microchip, rabies vaccination and health certificate as dogs for international travel, though tapeworm treatment generally applies to dogs only. Check the official rules for your destination.

How far in advance should I prepare for pet travel abroad?

Start as early as you can, ideally several months ahead. Waiting periods after rabies vaccination and titre tests can take weeks or months, and some steps must happen in a set order. Leaving it late is the most common reason trips get delayed.