Travel Safely with Your Four-Legged Companion
Traveling with your pet requires preparation, including a valid certificate to travel (Certificate of Veterinary Inspection). At Queen City Veterinary Clinic, our USDA-accredited veterinarian can navigate the health certificate process alongside you. Each destination may have different rules, which is why having knowledgeable veterinary staff on your side is so important. When you need a pet health certificate in Cincinnati, we will get you and your fur baby on your way.

Domestic Travel Health Certificates
If you’re traveling within the United States or its territories, a pet health certificate is often required by airlines and may be needed for interstate travel. These certificates verify that your pet is healthy, current on vaccinations (especially rabies), and free from contagious diseases. The exact requirements vary by airline and state, so it’s important to check your airline and your destination’s guidelines before scheduling your appointment.
Typically, domestic travel certificates involve a physical examination within a specific timeframe prior to travel, a review of vaccination records, and proper documentation provided through our USDA-accredited veterinarian. Certain states, like Hawaii, have more intensive requirements, so always start planning far in advance of your trip.
For air travel, some airlines also require that your pet’s carrier meets specific criteria and that certain forms be filled out by a licensed veterinarian. These documents not only satisfy airline policies but also ensure your pet is healthy enough to fly safely.
International Health Certificates for Pets Going Overseas
Traveling internationally with a pet can be a complex and time-sensitive process.
Many countries have specific requirements that include rabies titers, microchipping, parasite treatments, quarantine periods, or official endorsements from the USDA. These requirements are in place to prevent the spread of disease and verify that pets entering the country are healthy and properly identified.
The process of obtaining an international pet health certificate can be lengthy. Some travel certificates involve steps that must be started several months before your intended travel date. If you’re relocating or planning a trip abroad, don’t wait to start the process of obtaining a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection. Queen City Veterinary Clinic can coordinate with the USDA for official endorsements. Contact our staff to discuss the timing of your pet’s appointment as soon as you begin thinking about travel.


Prepare for Your Pet’s Health Certificate Appointment
To make the health certificate process as smooth as possible, we recommend the following steps:
- Gather your pet’s full veterinary records, including their current rabies certificate and any documentation of microchipping.
- Visit the USDA Pet Travel website to find the most current requirements for your destination country or state.
- Research or contact your airline to learn what forms or carrier requirements they may have. Some airlines require specific paperwork in addition to the health certificate. If the airline requires specific forms, have a blank copy available for us.
- Let us know about your pet’s travel habits, including whether they get anxious or motion sick. We can discuss medications or calming strategies to make the journey more comfortable.
It’s also a good idea to familiarize your pet with their travel crate well before the trip. Helping them feel comfortable in their carrier can reduce travel anxiety and contribute to a safer, smoother journey.
Health Certificates for Pets in Cincinnati, OH
Traveling with your pet doesn’t have to be stressful.
Our experienced and USDA-accredited veterinarian at Queen City Veterinary Clinic is ready to complete the necessary steps to obtain a pet health certificate. With careful planning and the right support, you and your pet can enjoy a safe adventure. Contact us to schedule your pet’s health certificate appointment.
Health Certificates for Pets in Cincinnati, OH
Traveling with your pet doesn’t have to be stressful.
Our experienced and USDA-accredited veterinarian at Queen City Veterinary Clinic is ready to complete the necessary steps to obtain a pet health certificate. With careful planning and the right support, you and your pet can enjoy a safe adventure. Contact us to schedule your pet’s health certificate appointment.
Queen City Veterinary Clinic has health certificates for international and domestic travel for cats and dogs from Walnut Hills, Hyde Park, Evanston, Avondale, CUF, Over-the-Rhine, Downtown Cincinnati, Norwood, Oakley, O’Bryonville, Columbia Tusculum, and the central Cincinnati, OH area, as well as Dayton, Bellevue, Ft. Thomas, Park Hills, Southgate, Newport, and the Northern Kentucky area.