USA Travel Guide

*Disclaimer: this is a guide only and it is your responsibility to ensure you up to date with guidelines*

​

Traveling with your pets to the USA requires preparation to meet both airline and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) requirements. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth journey for your furry friends.

​

1. Check Eligibility of Your Pet

• Permitted Animals: Dogs and cats are allowed. Exotic pets may have different requirements.

• Breed Restrictions: Some airlines and regions in the USA restrict certain breeds (e.g., brachycephalic breeds like bulldogs or Persian cats).

• Health: Ensure your pet is in good health to travel.

​

2. Ensure Compliance with U.S. Import Requirements

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the USDA have specific rules:

​

For Dogs:

1. Rabies Vaccination Certificate:

   • Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before arrival.

   • Puppies younger than 16 weeks are generally not allowed unless exemptions apply.

   • Ensure the certificate is in English or accompanied by a certified translation.

2. Health Certificate:

   • Some airlines and states require a health certificate signed by a veterinarian within 10 days of travel.

   • We can provide this Fit To Fly Certificate

3. CDC Dog Import Permit (if required):

   • Dogs from rabies high-risk countries may need a special permit.

   • Since the UK is low-risk, this usually doesn’t apply.

​​

For Cats:

1. Rabies Vaccination:

   • Not mandatory but strongly recommended.

2. Health Certificate:

   • Generally not required by the USDA but may be needed by airlines.

​

3. Visit the Veterinarian

Schedule a vet appointment 1–2 months before travel to:

• Update vaccinations.

• Microchip your pet (required for many airlines).

• Obtain any necessary health certificates.

• Discuss potential sedatives if your pet gets anxious during travel.

​​​

4. Choose an Airline and Book Flights

Airline Pet Policies

• Contact the airline to confirm their pet travel policies, fees, and documentation requirements.

• Options include:

  • In-cabin: Small pets may travel in a carrier under the seat.

  • Cargo: Larger pets are transported in the cargo hold.

​​

Booking Tips

• Book direct flights to minimize stress.

• Avoid extreme weather conditions during travel (e.g., peak summer or winter).

​​

5. Prepare an Airline-Approved Pet Carrier

• Choose a sturdy, well-ventilated carrier that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards.

• Size: Your pet should be able to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.

• Label the carrier with:

  • Your name, contact information, and flight details.

  • “Live Animal” stickers and arrows indicating the upright position.

​​

6. Prepare Your Pet for Travel

• Familiarize your pet with the carrier in advance.

• Avoid feeding your pet within 4–6 hours of the flight.

• Provide water but ensure it won’t spill.

​​

7. At the Airport

• Arrive early to check in your pet and complete inspections.

• Have all documentation ready, including:

  • Rabies vaccination certificate.

  • Health certificate (if required).

  • Airline-specific forms.

​​

8. Arrival in the USA

• Proceed to customs and declare your pet.

• Submit your documents for inspection.

• Ensure your pet is healthy and adjust to the new time zone.

​​​

9. Additional Tips

• Quarantine: The USA does not generally impose quarantine on pets from the UK, but check state-specific rules.

• Pet Insurance: Consider travel insurance that includes coverage for your pet.

• Settling In: Gradually introduce your pet to the new environment to ease any stress.

​​

Resources

• USDA-APHIS Pet Travel Website

• CDC Pet Travel

• Airline-specific pet policies (visit the airline’s website).

​

By following this guide, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for your beloved pets.

​