If you’re planning a trip with your furry friend, there’s more to think about than food and toys. Whether you’re flying, crossing state lines, or heading abroad, most destinations require specific pet travel documents, vaccinations, and advance planning. At Bull City Veterinary Hospital, our Central Durham vets are here to walk you through everything you’ll need—so you can travel confidently and avoid last-minute surprises.

Required Pet Travel Documents

Before you pack your pet’s suitcase, make sure these documents are in order:

1. Health Certificate (Certificate of Veterinary Inspection)

• Required for airline travel, interstate travel, and international trips
  
• Must be issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian
  
• Valid for 10–30 days depending on destination
  

We issue official pet travel health certificates—call us early to schedule.

2. Vaccination Records

At minimum, most destinations and airlines require proof of:

• Rabies vaccine (updated and within a specific window)
  
• Core vaccines like DHPP (dogs) or FVRCP (cats)
  

Some international destinations may also require:

• Bordetella (kennel cough)
  
• Leptospirosis
  
• Canine influenza
  
• Microchip verification
  

3. Microchip Registration

Many countries require a microchip that complies with ISO standards. Make sure your contact information is current in the registry.

4. Import Permits or Special Destination Forms

For international travel, check with the consulate or USDA APHIS site for specific destination rules. We can help guide you through this process.

Bull City Veterinary Hospital in Central Durham: Helping You Travel Safely with Your Pet

Vaccines for Traveling with Pets

Required Vaccines (Most Common):

• Dogs: Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella, Lepto (based on region)
  
• Cats: Rabies, FVRCP
  

Recommended (Especially for boarding or outdoor exposure):

• Canine influenza
  
• FeLV (for cats traveling outdoors or in contact with others)
  

We’ll review your pet’s records and recommend vaccines tailored to your destination and mode of travel. You can learn more about traveling with pets at the American Veterinary Medical Association website here. The CDC also has some helpful information about traveling with pets on their website here.

Airline and State Rules for Pet Travel

Each airline and state may have its own policies. Be sure to check:

• Carrier size and ventilation requirements
  
• Weather restrictions (heat embargoes for cargo travel)
  
• Advance notice or reservations
  
• Destination quarantine laws
  

We recommend calling the airline and destination veterinarian ahead of time. Every airline is different, so be sure to look up the carrier you’re using. Also, try to book direct flights if possible.

What to Pack for Your Pet

In addition to the documents and vaccines, don’t forget:

• Copies of all paperwork (digital and printed)
  
• Your pet’s regular food, water, and bowls
  
• Medications and prescriptions
  
• ID tags with current info
  
• Extra leash, harness, or travel crate
  
• Comfort item (blanket, toy)
  
• Waste bags or litter supplies
  

FAQs About Pet Travel Paperwork

How early should I get a health certificate?

Plan for 1–2 weeks in advance. Some international destinations require 30–60 days.

What if my pet isn’t up to date on vaccines?

Let us know—we’ll help you schedule safely based on departure timing. Read more about pet vaccinations at our blog here.

Do I need paperwork if I’m driving across state lines?

Often, yes. Many states still require health certificates and proof of rabies.

Start Your Travel Prep with Bull City Veterinary Hospital

At Bull City Veterinary Hospital in Central Durham, we specialize in pet travel documents, vaccinations, and stress-free travel prep. Whether you’re headed out of state or out of the country, we’ll help make sure your furry travel buddy is legal, healthy, and ready to go.

Contact us today to book your pet’s travel exam and get the paperwork started early! You can also visit our Services Page here to learn more about our Durham pet hospital and the animals we treat.

This blog is intended for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized travel health recommendations.