Pet Travel Services in San Francisco

Pet travel services in San Francisco at Ocean Avenue Veterinary Hospital help dog and cat owners navigate the documentation and health requirements for international relocation and travel. Our USDA APHIS-accredited veterinarians issue endorsed health certificates, coordinate export documentation, and guide San Francisco families through the specific requirements of each destination country. Requirements vary widely by country, and timing is critical. We recommend starting the process well in advance of your travel date.

International Health Certificate for Dogs and Cats

The international health certificate is the cornerstone of international pet travel documentation. At OAVH, our USDA APHIS-accredited veterinarians examine your dog or cat, complete the official health certificate, and coordinate USDA endorsement. Requirements vary significantly by destination country. Timing is critical, as many countries require the health certificate to be issued within ten days of travel. Our team guides you through the process well in advance to ensure all requirements are met without delays.

Pet Export Documentation

Beyond the health certificate, many countries require additional documentation for pet import. This may include parasite control records, vaccine history, country-specific forms, and official government letters. Ocean Avenue Veterinary Hospital provides complete export documentation packages for destinations including the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, the European Union, Canada, and others. Our team stays current on country-specific requirements and submits all paperwork with accuracy and appropriate lead times.

Microchipping for Travel

An ISO-standard microchip is a requirement for international pet travel to most countries. If your pet does not yet have a microchip, or has a chip that does not meet ISO 11784/11785 standards required by destination countries, OAVH can implant or verify an appropriate chip. Microchipping for travel purposes is referenced here. For standard domestic microchipping, see our Pet Care Services page.

Rabies Titer Testing for Travel

Several countries, including Australia, Japan, and many EU nations, require proof of rabies antibody levels through a blood titer test before allowing pet entry. At OAVH, we collect blood samples and coordinate with USDA APHIS-approved laboratories, including Kansas State University, for the official FAVN titer test. Timing for this test varies by destination country and can require months of lead time. Contact us well in advance of any planned international move. Rabies titer testing for routine purposes is also available through our Pet Diagnostics service.

Explore More Services

Pet diagnostics including titer testing

Microchipping and preventive pet care

Contact OAVH to begin your travel documentation

FAQs

How far in advance should I start the international pet travel process?

As early as possible. Some destination countries require rabies titer testing six months or more before entry. Others require specific parasite control within days of travel. Contact OAVH as soon as you know your destination and travel date. Call (415) 586-5327 to begin the process.

Does OAVH issue USDA APHIS-endorsed health certificates?

Yes. Our veterinarians are USDA APHIS-accredited, which means we can issue health certificates that are eligible for USDA endorsement. We coordinate the endorsement process and guide you through all documentation requirements for your specific destination.

What countries do you help pet owners travel to from San Francisco?

We assist with documentation for destinations including the UK, Australia, Japan, the EU, Canada, New Zealand, and many others. Each country has unique requirements. Call (415) 586-5327 or contact us through our website with your destination and travel date to get started.

Preparing to relocate internationally with your dog or cat? Start your pet travel documentation at Ocean Avenue Veterinary Hospital in San Francisco. Call (415) 586-5327 or book a travel consultation online. USDA APHIS-accredited care.