Health Certificates and Pet Travel: Things You Need to Know Provided by an Etobicoke, ON Veterinarian  

Whether you're traveling with your pet because you can't stand the thought of somebody else watching your baby while you're away, or you just want your furry family member to join in on the fun, you have to plan your trip accordingly. Pet travel often times requires you to have a health certificate. Before you travel, you should know why, and if, you need a pet health certificate from Richview Animal Hospital, serving Etobicoke, ON and the surrounding area.  

Not All Pets Can Obtain a Health Certificate  

Not every pet is able to obtain a health certificate. Our veterinarian only will issue health certificates to animals who are healthy enough to travel. We also evaluate your pet to ensure no injuries or a poor temperament would interfere with having a safe voyage. Additionally, we take into consideration if your pet has any diseases that could be transferred to another animal or human. Basically, animals who are healthy and mild mannered are the only ones who can obtain a health certificate.  

Vaccinations Play a Role in the Examination

While ensuring your pet will have a safe trip, we also want to make sure you follow laws and other people or animals your pet comes in contact during your ventures will be safe. That's why we also make sure your pet is updated on his or her vaccinations. 

Health Certificates Are Oftentimes Required 

Health certificates are oftentimes a requirement depending on where you travel. You should contact your hotel, airline and anywhere else you plan to bring your pet to determine if a health certificate for pet travel is required. It's better to have a health certificate than not to have one because you could find your pet can't stay or enter somewhere without it. 

All airlines require your pet to have a certificate in order to board the plane. Many hotels deem it necessary for your pet to have a health certificate to stay at the hotel. Keep in mind, not all hotels even allow pets, so make sure you book a pet-friendly hotel. To enter other countries, you'll need to have a pet health certificate in most cases. All pets must have an up-to-date rabies vaccination to enter any country. Even to cross some state borders, your pet will need a health certificate.  

Keep Up To Date On Your Pets Health Certificate

We advise you to visit our office at least 10 days before you take your pet on your trip. Specific requirements for when you get it may vary, so you may need to have an updated version, even if your pet received a health certificate a year ago or less. Inquire where you're going on specific requirements before your trip, so you and your pet have a safe and stress-free trek.  

A Health Certificate Protects You Legally 

If your pet should happen to bite or attack somebody, a health certificate can protect you legally. If your pet would have a disease that could spread to other animal or a human and your pet would bite someone, you'd be legally responsible for the medical bills your animal caused. We're able to detect any infectious disease and treat it or prevent your pet from traveling.  

To obtain a health certificate to ensure your pet can legally and safely join you on your journeys, contact Richview Animal Hospital, serving Eboticoke, ON and the surrounding area, by calling 416-245-8805.