Pets traveling by air must meet USDA requirements.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, through its Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), regulates pets that move into or out of the United States. The USDA also regulates the transport of animals by dealers and brokers and establishes requirements for airline transportation of pets. Pets traveling by car within the country are not subject to federal requirements, but each state has its set of rules. Hawaii is a rabies-free area, and any pet entering that state from within the United States must be quarantined for five to 120 days.
Entering the United States
Pets entering the United States fall mainly under the jurisdiction of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which focuses on rabies vaccination status. The USDA, however, requires dogs returning from areas where screwworm is present to obtain certification that they were examined for screwworm within five days of travel and were found to be screwworm-free.
Leaving the United States
Each country has its own requirements for pets entering from the United States. The USDA's requirements for pets leaving the country include a health certification endorsed by an APHIS-accredited veterinarian after being signed by the veterinarian who examined the pet.
Health Certification
Most airlines and states require health certificates. A veterinarian must examine the pet, usually within 10 to 30 days of travel, and sign a certificate stating the pet shows no clinical signs of infectious disease. A health certificate also provides identifying information about the pet and lists the dates and types of vaccinations.
Crates
The USDA has specific requirements for shipping pets as cargo in planes. The crate must be big enough for the pet to sit, stand and rest comfortably, must have adequate ventilation, and must feature a solid, nonporous floor with bedding or pet litter. A rim must prevent the crate's ventilation from being blocked. Handles must allow airline workers to lift the crate without risking a bite. The crate must be clearly marked "Live Animal" in letters at least 1 inch high and feature arrows indicating the correct orientation of the crate.
Food and Water
Instructions for supplying food and water, as well as any medications, must be affixed to the crate. Include documentation from the shipper about when the animal was last fed and watered, which must be no more than four hours before travel. Bowls for food and water must be securely attached to the crate and accessible while the crate doors are closed. Airlines must provide water every 12 hours and food every 12 to 24 hours, depending on the pet's age.
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