Health Certificates
International Health Certificates & FAVN Testing
Taking your pet overseas? San Francisco Pet Hospital is here to help make your international travel plans stress-free and compliant with all regulations.
Traveling Abroad with Your Pet
If you're moving or vacationing internationally with your dog or cat, your destination country will likely require specific health documentation before entry is allowed. This often includes an International Health Certificate issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian, and in some cases, FAVN testing to confirm rabies immunity.
At San Francisco Pet Hospital, our knowledgeable, USDA-accredited veterinarians are ready to guide you through the steps needed to prepare your pet for safe and legal travel.
What Is an International Health Certificate?
An International Health Certificate confirms your pet is healthy and meets the veterinary requirements for travel to another country. These documents typically include:
- Proof of current vaccinations (especially rabies)
- Microchip information
- Physical exam results
- Diagnostic test results (like FAVN, if required)
Many countries also require this certificate to be endorsed by the USDA after completion.
What Is FAVN Testing?
FAVN (Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization) testing is a specialized blood test used to measure your pet’s antibody levels in response to the rabies vaccine. This test is required by countries and regions that are rabies-free or have strict rabies control regulations, such as:
- Japan
- Australia
- New Zealand
- South Korea
- Hawaii and Guam
- The European Union
Results typically take 2–4 weeks, so early planning is essential.
How We Can Help
Our team at San Francisco Pet Hospital will:
- Review your destination’s entry requirements
- Perform a comprehensive health exam
- Ensure your pet’s vaccines and microchip are up to date
- Draw and submit blood samples for FAVN testing (if needed)
- Complete and submit all required paperwork
- Coordinate USDA endorsement, if necessary
Start Planning Early
International travel requirements can be time-sensitive and complex. We recommend starting the process 3–6 months before your planned departure to ensure everything is completed on time.
Let’s get your pet travel-ready! Call us!