Planning international travel with your dog or cat requires careful preparation and the right veterinary documentation. At Abby Veterinary Hospital and Emergency in Abbotsford, our team assists pet owners with the health certification and documentation required for international pet travel. Whether you are relocating abroad or traveling with your companion across borders, we help ensure your pet meets the health requirements of your destination country.
We recommend beginning the process at least 4 to 6 months before your travel date, and earlier if your destination requires a rabies titer test with a mandatory waiting period. Some countries, including those with strict biosecurity requirements, may require up to 12 months of preparation. Our team will review your destination’s requirements and help you map out the timeline.
Most destination countries require an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip to be implanted before the health certificate is issued. If your pet is not yet microchipped or has an older non-ISO chip, we can provide microchipping as part of your travel preparation. The chip number must appear on all supporting documentation.
A rabies titer test measures the level of rabies antibodies in your pet’s blood to confirm adequate immunity. Countries including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and some EU member states require a satisfactory titer result before a pet can enter. Results must come from an approved laboratory, and a waiting period after a satisfactory result is often required. Our team will advise you if a titer test is required for your destination.
Start your pet’s international travel documentation at Abby Vet Emergency in Abbotsford. Our team is available from 12 PM every day. Call (604) 969-0911 to book a travel consultation and begin the process for your destination country.
