Traveling internationally with a dog or cat requires specific documentation, health certificates, and in some cases additional vaccinations or testing that must be completed within precise timeframes before departure. Midtown Veterinary Hospital in Victoria helps pet owners in the region navigate the requirements for international pet travel, ensuring your pet’s documents are accurate, complete, and accepted at your destination.
An international health certificate is a government-endorsed document confirming your pet's health status, vaccination history, and fitness for international travel. The certificate must be issued by an accredited veterinarian within a specific window before your travel date, typically within 10 days for most destinations, though requirements vary. We are an accredited clinic for issuing internationally recognized health certificates. Contact us well in advance of your travel date, as documentation requirements, timing windows, and any required tests or vaccinations vary significantly by destination country. Start planning at least 4 to 6 weeks ahead of travel.
Pet export documentation encompasses all paperwork required to transport your pet across international borders, which varies depending on your destination country's specific import requirements. Some countries require documentation endorsed by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in addition to the health certificate. Others require proof of specific vaccinations, parasite assessments, or microchip registration in a compliant format. We assist with preparing the appropriate documentation package and advise on which additional steps are needed based on your destination. Do not rely on airline websites alone for requirements. Official government sources and your destination country's embassy are the authoritative sources.
International travel with pets typically requires ISO-standard microchip implantation for identification. Many countries require an ISO 11784/11785 compliant chip (15-digit) that is registered before the health certificate is issued. If your pet does not have a microchip, or has a chip that does not meet the required standard, implantation needs to occur before any other travel documentation is issued. We offer microchipping as part of our pet care services and can confirm whether your pet's existing chip meets the standard required by your destination. Microchip registration in the appropriate database is also an important step.
Some destination countries, particularly those with strict rabies import policies including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and certain EU countries, require a rabies antibody titer test to confirm your pet has adequate immunity before entry is permitted. Titer tests must be performed by an approved laboratory, and some destinations require a waiting period after a passing titer result before the pet may enter. Planning for titer testing well ahead of travel is essential, as the process from testing to endorsement can take several months. We can draw the required blood sample at our clinic and guide you through submission to an approved laboratory.
Grief following the loss of a pet is real and can be profound. Our team will not rush you or minimize what you are feeling. We are available to answer any questions you have after your visit, and we can point you toward pet loss support resources if you or a family member would benefit from additional support. Children grieve differently than adults, and we are happy to discuss age-appropriate ways to support children through this experience. You are not alone in this, and we are honored to care for your family through it.
Planning international travel with your dog or cat from Victoria? Contact Midtown Veterinary Hospital well in advance of your departure date. Call (778) 775-8387 or book a travel consultation at https://petportal.vet/midtown-veterinary-hospital/appointment/request. Accurate documentation is essential, and early planning makes the process much smoother.
