How to Get an International Health Certificate for Pet Travel (The Stress-Free Way)

Planning a trip abroad with your furry friend? 🐾 Whether you're moving, vacationing, or jet-setting for work, bringing your pet along requires more than just a ticket and a crate. Most countries require an official International Health Certificate, completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian — and that's where Family Pet Medical Center comes in.

We make the process smooth, simple, and stress-free — so you can focus on enjoying the adventure with your pet.

What Is an International Health Certificate for Pets?

An International Health Certificate (IHC) is an official document required for pets traveling to another country. It confirms that your pet is:

• Healthy and free of contagious diseases
• Up to date on required vaccinations
• Cleared to travel based on the destination country's regulations

Each country has its own specific guidelines — some require microchipping, rabies titers, parasite treatments, or even quarantines. The key is planning ahead and working with a USDA-accredited veterinarian, like the team at Family Pet Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale.

What’s the Process for Getting One?

1. Schedule Your Exam
   Contact us to schedule your pre-travel health exam as soon as you know your destination. Some countries require documentation 30+ days in advance.
2. We Review the Country’s Requirements
   We’ll guide you based on your travel plans and destination, ensuring all necessary vaccinations, treatments, and documentation are in order.
3. We Complete the Certificate
   After examining your pet and verifying compliance, we complete the USDA-approved International Health Certificate for endorsement.
4. Submission to USDA (If Required)
   For some destinations, the certificate must be endorsed by the USDA — we’ll guide you through this step too.

Why Choose Family Pet Medical Center?

• 🩺 USDA-Accredited Veterinarians
  Not every vet can complete IHCs — our team is specially certified to handle international travel documentation.
• 📋 Expert Guidance
  Every country is different. We help you navigate the paperwork, timing, and treatments required for your destination.
• ✈️ Stress-Free Experience
  We understand that pet travel is stressful — our compassionate team ensures your pet’s health (and your peace of mind) come first.
• 📍 Conveniently Located in Fort Lauderdale
  Whether you're flying out of Miami or Fort Lauderdale, our clinic is easily accessible for last-minute needs.

When Should I Start the Process?

Start early — at least 30 days in advance, or earlier if your destination requires special tests like rabies titers. Some countries (like Australia or Japan) have longer preparation timelines.

Need Help With Pet Travel Paperwork?

Family Pet Medical Center is your go-to source for International Health Certificates for dogs and cats in Fort Lauderdale and South Florida.

📞 Call us today at (954) 567-2500 to get started, or stop by our clinic at 2750 N Federal Hwy, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306.

💻 You can also DM us on Instagram or send a message through our website.

We’re here to help you and your pet travel with confidence — wherever in the world you’re headed.