Pet Travel Health Certificates

Veterinarian examining a beagle with a stethoscope

Airlines and countries each set their own rules, and missing one line can hold up a trip. Our Sugar Land clinic across from Sugar Land Town Square issues domestic and international health certificates through accredited veterinarians.

For international trips, we also handle the paperwork that needs USDA endorsement. The earlier you call, the more options you have.

Call (346) 436-6295 or book online.

When it's an emergency: Go straight to a 24-hour emergency hospital for any pet that becomes ill while traveling or after arriving home, such as collapse, labored breathing, or repeated vomiting. We're open 8 AM to 6 PM, seven days a week, and we don't provide overnight care.

Domestic vs. International

Domestic flights: many airlines want a health certificate issued close to the travel date. The AVMA's pet travel FAQs note that certificates are commonly required within 10 days of travel and must be signed by an accredited veterinarian.
International travel: many countries need specific vaccines, a microchip, and a certificate endorsed by the USDA. Some need tests done weeks or months in advance.
Road trips: most car travel within the U.S. doesn't need a certificate, but some states have entry rules. Check before you go.

Veterinary team member checking a tabby cat's paw and skin

Flying From IAH or Hobby to Mexico

Both Houston airports have frequent flights to Mexico, and it's one of the most common international trips for Sugar Land families. Getting there is only half the paperwork; coming home has its own rules.

Dogs returning to the U.S. must be at least six months old, have an ISO-compatible microchip, and arrive with a CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
The USDA has listed Mexico as affected by New World screwworm since late 2024, and dogs returning from Mexico must meet USDA screwworm requirements, including an inspection before you come back.
Mexico has its own entry requirements, including parasite treatment. Check the current rules with the USDA's pet travel site when you plan the trip.
Rules have changed often since 2024. Recheck them a few weeks before you leave.

Dog standing beside an airline travel carrier

What to Bring to the Appointment

Your pet's vaccine records, especially rabies, with the date and product
Your travel dates, destination, and any layovers
The airline's or country's requirements, if you have them
Your pet's microchip number
A list of current medications

“The team explained costs and services clearly and gave me the info needed to make an informed decision.”
— Heather D., Petfolk client.

Terrier at home beside a travel carrier and paperwork

How the Visit Works

The doctor examines your pet, reviews its records, and confirms which vaccines, tests, or treatments your destination requires. Anything missing gets scheduled, sometimes on a separate visit. Once everything is current, the certificate is completed, and international certificates go to the USDA for endorsement.

Every exam follows Gentle Handling: you go straight to an exam room and stay with your pet.

When You Don't Need a Certificate

Driving to Galveston or San Antonio for the weekend usually doesn't call for one. Neither does leaving your pet home with a sitter. If your pet is current on rabies and you're staying in Texas by car, you likely don't need this service.

What a Health Certificate Costs

The cost depends on where you're going, and you'll get an estimate before we start. What changes it:

Domestic or international paperwork
Vaccines, tests, or parasite treatments your destination requires
USDA endorsement fees for international certificates, which are separate from our charge
Whether a microchip needs to be placed

Call Before You Book

Know your pet's paperwork timeline before you buy tickets. Call (346) 436-6295 or book online with your travel dates in hand.