International Pet Health Certificates in Houston, TX
Planning to travel internationally with your dog or cat? Getting your pet cleared for travel abroad involves more than just packing their favorite toy — it requires official documentation, specific vaccinations, and in many cases, USDA endorsement. At CAWLM Veterinary Hospital + Spa, we make the entire process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
We issue international health certificates for dogs and cats right here in Houston, TX, and we handle the USDA endorsement process on your behalf — so you can focus on preparing for your trip, not navigating government paperwork.
What Is an International Health Certificate?
An international health certificate (also called an International Health Certificate for Small Animals) is an official document issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian confirming that your pet is healthy, up-to-date on required vaccinations, and cleared to travel to your destination country.
Most countries require this certificate to be issued within a specific window before your departure date — typically 7 to 10 days — so timing is important.
What's Included in Our International Health Certificate Service:
A thorough physical exam by our USDA-accredited veterinarian
Review of your destination country's specific entry requirements
Administration of any required vaccines or treatments (if not already current)
USDA endorsement handling — we take care of this step for you
Guidance on microchipping requirements if applicable
Documentation review to ensure everything is in order before your travel date
Why the USDA Endorsement Matters
Many countries will not accept an international health certificate without a USDA endorsement stamp — this is an additional layer of official verification required beyond the veterinarian's signature. Navigating the USDA endorsement process can be confusing and time-sensitive, which is why we handle it for you from start to finish.
Ready to Get Started? Call us at (832) 662-2956 or book a consultation online. Please let us know your destination country and travel date when you reach out so we can begin reviewing your pet's specific requirements right away.
Serving Houston, TX including Museum District, Third Ward, Midtown, Medical Center, Downtown, Pearland, Katy, Sugar Land, Kingwood, Spring, Cypress, The Woodlands, and surrounding areas.
Every Country Is Different
Entry requirements vary significantly by destination. Some countries require specific parasite treatments, titer tests (proof of rabies immunity), or extended waiting periods before your pet can enter. We stay up to date on international pet travel regulations and will walk you through exactly what your pet needs based on where you're going.
Popular destinations we commonly prepare pets for include the United Kingdom, European Union countries, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Japan, and more. Requirements differ for each — please contact us as early as possible, as some destinations require preparation months in advance.
How Far in Advance Should I Schedule?
We recommend contacting us at least 4 to 6 weeks before your departure date, and earlier if you're traveling to countries with strict entry requirements (such as Australia, Japan, or the UK). Some destinations require rabies titer tests that must be completed well in advance of travel.
The sooner you reach out, the more time we have to make sure everything is in place for a seamless entry at your destination. You can visit this website to begin the preparation for your appointment.
Traveling Domestically Instead?
We also issue domestic health certificates for travel within the United States in compliance with airline and state regulations. Ask our team for details.