Pet Transport to the USA Simplified

Are you planning to move to the USA from South Africa with your pet? Keringa-Petwings can help you navigate all the necessary regulations and make the entire process hassle-free

Pet Transport to the USA

Transporting pets to the USA without professional advice is challenging due to the complex regulations and documentation required, including vaccinations, microchipping, and health certificates. Additionally, navigating airline policies and ensuring the pet’s comfort and safety during travel can be overwhelming without expert guidance.

Keringa-Petwings can assist with the following important requirements:

Documentation for Pet Travel to the USA

As the pet owner, you must complete a written declaration stating that your pet is being transported for non-commercial purposes. To enter the USA, your pet must also have an import permit issued by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) if applicable. This document confirms that your pet has been vaccinated and has undergone a veterinary examination. Your pet will also need a health certificate proving it is fit and healthy to travel.
Veterinary Health Certificates

Your pet will need a health certificate stating that it is fit and healthy to travel. This certificate should be valid for at least 10 days from the date of issue by the vet until the date of travel. A new health certificate is needed each time your pet travels. This certificate, which you can obtain from your vet, should include:
• Proof of Rabies vaccination.
• Results of antibody and blood tests.
• Confirmation of internal and external parasite treatments.
Blood Tests, Microchipping & Vaccinations

Pets require a Rabies Neutralising Antibodies Titration Test before entry into the USA. This can only be done by an authorised vet and needs to be completed at least 31 days after Rabies vaccination. Once the blood draw is complete and sent to an approved laboratory, travel can only be completed 90 days after the blood draw date.

Before entering the USA, your pet must be microchipped. The microchip must be implanted before any annual vaccinations, as vaccinations given before microchipping are not recognised. According to USA regulations, only a registered veterinarian can implant the microchip and administer vaccinations.

Additionally, your pet will need specific internal and external parasite treatments before departure, which must be documented on your veterinary health certificate.
Customs Clearance & Quarantine

For all pet travel exports to the USA, customs clearance is required. Proof of this clearance must be provided to the airline along with your pets on their departure date. Keringa-Petwings will manage your entire customs clearance process, ensuring all export requirements are fully met. Generally, pets do not need to be quarantined upon arrival in the USA, provided all health and documentation requirements are met.