If you plan to travel with your pet, you may need more than just a pet carrier.  In most cases verification of vaccinations and possibly other lab tests may be required, if not a Health Certificate.   The following links to the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service ("APHIS") provide useful information to help you prepare for your trip with your pet.  Also, please be sure to contact your airline, if flying, for any additional requirements they may have for travel.
USDA APHIS: Steps to Obtain an International Health Certificate for Pets.
USDA Pre-Travel Checklist.
If you determine that a Health Certificate is necessary, please call (231) 882-5561 to schedule an appointment at least 10 days before your expected departure.  When you call, please provide us with the following information to complete the Health Certificate to save you valuable time on the day of your appointment:
  • The destination State or Country.
  • The telephone number and address at which you and your pet will reside when you reach your destination.
  • Your mode of transportation (i.e. car, airplane, train).  Also the carrier, if known (i.e. Delta, American Airlines, Greyhound).
  • The departure date.
  • Your pet's name, breed, age, sex, color/markings, and vaccine history, if he or she is not already a patient of Betsie River Veterinary Clinic.