How to Take Your Pet to the USA from the UK: The Complete Guide
Travelling with your pet to the United States from the UK is absolutely doable — and with the right preparation, it doesn't need to be stressful. Requirements can vary depending on your destination state, airline, and travel route, so this guide walks you through everything you need to know, step by step.
How Far in Advance Should You Start?
We recommend starting the process at least 6–8 weeks before your travel date. This gives you enough time to check your pet's microchip and vaccination status, confirm which certificate your destination state requires, and book your home visit appointment at the right point before departure.
The final veterinary certificate is typically issued within 5 days of travel — but the groundwork needs to happen well before that. Leaving things too late is the most common reason pet travel plans run into difficulty, so the earlier you get in touch, the smoother the process will be.
🇺🇸 Step-by-Step Guide: Taking Your Dog or Cat from the UK to the USA
Step 1: Make Sure Your Pet Is Microchipped
Your pet must have a 15-digit ISO-compliant microchip. This is the foundation of all travel documentation — every certificate and vaccination record must match the microchip number exactly, so it's worth double-checking this with your regular vet before anything else.
Step 2: Check Your Rabies Vaccination Is Valid
A valid rabies vaccination is required for travel to the USA. To meet the strictest state requirements:
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Rabies must be given at least 30 days before travel
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Many states expect it to be within the last 12 months
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Your pet must be microchipped before the rabies vaccination is given
Your regular vet should provide a rabies certificate that includes: the microchip number, vaccine date, valid from and expiry dates, batch number, and confirmation that the microchip was scanned.
Step 3: Confirm Your Route and Destination State
Before booking any veterinary appointments, confirm:
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Your destination state (some have additional requirements)
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Your travel route, including any transit countries
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Your mode of transport — cabin, cargo, or private flight
Getting this right early saves time and avoids last-minute surprises.
Step 4: Complete the CDC Import Form (Dogs Only)
If you're travelling with a dog, you'll need to complete the CDC Dog Import Form before arrival in the USA. This applies if your dog has been in the UK — a low rabies risk country — for the last six months. Each dog requires a separate submission.
If your dog has spent time in a high-risk rabies country within the last six months, additional requirements will apply. Get in touch and we can help you work through this.
Step 5: Arrange the Right Veterinary Certificate
This is where it's important to get the details right — and where we come in.
For most US states: Fit to Fly Certificate
Also known as a Private Veterinary Certificate or Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), this confirms your pet has been examined by a vet and is clinically fit to travel. We recommend issuing this within 5 days of travel, in line with most airline requirements.
For certain states: Export Health Certificate (EHC)
Some states require a UK Government Export Health Certificate (EHC), issued by an Official Veterinarian (OV). These include:
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Hawaii → Cats (EHC 3073) or Dogs (EHC 8860)
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Massachusetts → Cats (EHC 8696) or Dogs (EHC 8860)
EHCs have specific timing requirements that differ from a standard Fit to Fly. If you're unsure which applies to your trip, we'll confirm this for you at your appointment.
Step 6: Check Your Airline's Requirements
Airlines often have their own rules on top of government requirements. These may include:
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Specific certificate timing windows
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IATA-compliant crate specifications
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Restrictions on cabin travel
It's worth noting that most airlines do not allow pets in the cabin on direct UK to USA routes. Alternative routing via the EU or Canada, or a private charter flight, may allow cabin travel — but always confirm directly with your airline.
Step 7: Check Transit Country Requirements (If Applicable)
If your route passes through another country, additional documentation may be needed:
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EU transit may require an EU Animal Health Certificate (AHC)
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Non-EU transit (e.g. Canada) will have its own entry and rabies documentation rules
We can help flag this early, but always confirm requirements before you travel.
Step 8: Your Final Veterinary Appointment
Shortly before departure, you'll need a final appointment to:
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Carry out a clinical examination
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Confirm microchip details
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Issue the required certificate
Typical timing:
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Fit to Fly → within 5 days of travel
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EHC → state-specific (we'll advise at booking)
We offer home visits across London, so there's no need to take your pet to a clinic. We come to you — which is especially helpful for anxious animals or busy schedules.
Step 9: Prepare for the Journey
A little preparation goes a long way:
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Use an IATA-compliant crate and give your pet time to get used to it beforehand
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Pack all certificates, vaccination records, and the CDC form
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Bring food, water bowls, medication, a lead, bedding, and comfort items
Note: Sedation is not recommended for air travel.
Step 10: Arriving in the USA
On arrival, you may be asked to present your health certificate, CDC form (for dogs), and rabies documentation. In most cases, the process is brief and straightforward.
