Southwest Vet

Every country is different, for more information on each countries requirements click here to visit the USDA's website, then select the country you will be traveling to.

If there are required tests, you will need to schedule an appointment with one of our accredited veterinarians to determine the proper tests and timeline. The fees incurred for these additional visits are not part of the fee for issuing the international health certificate. A written estimate will be provided upon request during the first appointment if you so choose.

Because these are legal documents to ensure health, the pet must be physically examined at the time a health certificate is issued, even if the pet was seen by our office recently. This is a USDA requirement.

Every state has their own unique set of requirements for traveling into or through their state.

Click here to check out this helpful chart to help you determine what you need in order to travel between state lines.

Depending on the airline, you will want to research their individual set of rules and regulations they have in place as the standard for transporting your pet. Some airlines allow small pets to travel in the cabin with you as your carry-on item while others require pets to travel in the cargo area below.

Airlines can have additional fees ranging anywhere from $0 to over $500 and some only allow a set number of animals per flight. Make sure the flight you want to book will have a spot open for you and your furry friend.

To help you prepare, Bring Fido is a website that discusses all things travel for your pet. For airline policies, click here and then select which airline you will be booking your travel arrangements through. They have in-depth information about the different airline requirements and direct contact information for each airline.

Once you've looked over the information, you will want to contact the airline's concierge to confirm you have everything you need to follow their rules for flying. Airlines often change their policies or procedures for transporting a pet with little or no notice to the pet owners, that's why we recommend always calling the airline concierge before arriving at the airport.

Many people are now frequently choosing to turn to pet relocation services to help them navigate the difficult process of moving or traveling with their pets.

Pet relocations companies can help you with advice/tips and create a "move coordination plan", they can pick up or drop off your pet anywhere, help you select the proper crate for traveling based on requirements, get your pet checked in at the airport, and help you facilitate all the vet appointments, quarantines, permits, all other legal documentation, book travel arrangements, and more.

We are available to work with any pet relocation company you may choose. In the past, we have worked with PetRelocation. They are an Austin-based company that clients have used with great success.

After issuance of an international health certificate, also known as APHIS form 7001, the certificate, and any required documents must be signed by the state veterinarian as well. 

They are located downtown, and their contact info follows: USDA Texas State Veterinarian Office Veterinary Services

Dr. Kevin Varner

APHIS Area Veterinarian-In-Charge

903 San Jacinto Blvd., Room 220

Austin, Texas 78701-2450

Phone: (512) 383-2400

FAX: (512) 916-5197

Email: [email protected]