DOGS AND CATS WITHOUT A ‘PET PASSPORT’ WILL BE DENIED ENTRY TO THESE COUNTRIES – WHAT TO KNOW
Source: Travel & Leisure (Extract)
Posted: August 1, 2025
Traveling with a pet can be an unforgettable experience — but it comes with responsibilities. Whether you’re flying internationally or crossing state lines, it’s important to understand the rules and regulations that apply to your furry travel companion.
These guidelines, often referred to as “pet passports,” help ensure your pet’s health, safety, and legal entry across borders.
Domestic Travel Within the U.S.
Even a road trip across state lines may trigger legal and documentation requirements for pets. While a formal “pet passport” isn’t required within the U.S., certain states do require a valid Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) — often called a health certificate — issued by a licensed vet.
For first-time pet travelers, one of the best resources is the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) website. Its recently updated Travel with a Pet page outlines the latest state-by-state requirements. For example, Texas mandates that all dogs and cats entering the state be vaccinated against rabies.
The USDA recommends a pre-trip vet visit to confirm your pet is healthy, up to date on vaccinations, and has all required documentation.
International Travel: From the U.S. to Europe
Planning to bring your pet to France, Italy, or another EU country? You’ll need to prepare ahead.
The European Commission requires pets arriving from the U.S. to have:
- Proof of a rabies vaccination
- A microchip or other identification
- An official veterinary certificate, issued within 10 days of travel
These certificates are valid for up to four months for non-commercial travel (i.e., not for sale or transfer of ownership). You’ll also need to sign a declaration confirming the purpose of travel is personal.
Failure to comply with EU rules can result in serious consequences. According to the EU website, a non-compliant pet may be returned to its country of origin, placed in quarantine, or, in extreme cases, euthanized.
Traveling to Other Countries
Each country has its own entry requirements. For example:
Mexico doesn’t require a formal pet passport, but pets may be inspected for signs of illness upon arrival.
Returning to the U.S. from Mexico? Dogs must be tested for screwworm, a disease currently found in Mexico, even if they originally came from the U.S.
“As of November 22, 2024, Mexico is considered to be affected by screwworm. All dogs (including U.S. origin dogs returning to the U.S. after traveling to Mexico) must meet APHIS requirements for screwworm freedom certification upon entry,” the USDA states.
Flying With Service or Emotional Support Animals
Service animals — defined by the U.S. Department of Transportation as those trained to assist individuals with disabilities — are permitted to travel by air, but airlines may request documentation about the animal’s health, behavior, and training.
Note: Emotional support animals are not classified as service animals under U.S. law and may not qualify for the same accommodations.
Before booking, travelers should contact their airline directly to understand its specific policies and ensure their animal is properly documented and added to the reservation if required.
Whether you’re flying overseas or road-tripping across states, a little research and preparation can go a long way in keeping your pet safe and happy on the journey.