When it comes to relocating your pet, experience and attention to detail make all the difference. As a trusted leader in pet transportation across the United States, we manage every aspect of your pet’s journey with care and precision. From coordinating travel logistics and ensuring compliance with state and airline requirements to prioritizing your pet’s comfort and safety, our team delivers a seamless relocation experience from start to finish. At Pets in Transit, we also understand that pets are family, which is why our approach is always personalized. Whether you’re moving across the state or across the country, we provide clear communication, dependable timelines, and compassionate handling every step of the way. With a proven process and a commitment to excellence, we take the stress out of pet travel so you can focus on settling into your new home—knowing your pet is in expert hands.
Once you approve our proposal, we begin by gathering and reviewing your pet’s veterinary records to ensure everything aligns with travel requirements. Our team works directly with your veterinarian to verify details, identify any gaps, and guide next steps—keeping the process organized and easy to navigate from day one.
With requirements confirmed, we handle the preparation of all necessary documentation. From health certificates and permits to any required endorsements, we coordinate every detail and timeline so nothing is left to chance. You’ll always know what’s happening, without having to manage the logistics yourself.
We carefully select the most appropriate travel route based on your pet’s needs, prioritizing safety, comfort, and efficiency. Our team manages all airline coordination, securing space through the airline’s cargo department and ensuring your pet travels under the best possible conditions.
When you work with Pets in Transit, you’ll receive a clear, detailed itinerary outlining every step of your pet’s journey. From departure times to arrival instructions, everything is thoughtfully organized so you know exactly what to expect and when—giving you full confidence in the plan ahead.
We coordinate a smooth and reliable handoff based on your preferred service. Whether it’s a home pickup or airport drop-off, your pet is handled by experienced professionals who ensure they are comfortable, secure, and fully prepared for travel.
Throughout the journey, we keep you connected with timely updates so you’re never left wondering. From departure confirmations to arrival notifications, you’ll have full visibility into your pet’s travel status every step of the way.
Upon arrival, we manage all entry procedures and coordinate the next phase of your pet’s journey. Whether it’s clearing customs, handling quarantine requirements, or arranging final transport, we ensure a smooth transition and a safe, stress-free reunion.
Bringing a pet into the United States involves meeting a combination of federal, state, and airline requirements. While the process can vary depending on your pet’s origin, vaccination history, and travel route, accuracy is critical; missing or incorrect documentation can result in delays, quarantine, or denied entry. Our team helps ensure every requirement is properly handled, from reviewing veterinary records to coordinating documentation and travel logistics. Below is an overview of what to expect when preparing your pet for entry into the U.S.
Pets entering the United States are regulated by multiple agencies, including the USDA (APHIS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Requirements vary based on the type of animal, country of origin, and intended destination within the U.S. In addition to federal regulations, individual states may have their own entry requirements that must also be met before arrival.
Unlike many countries, the U.S. does not always require a general health certificate for entry at the federal level. However, health certificates are often required by airlines and may be necessary to meet state-specific regulations. Ensuring your pet is healthy, properly documented, and cleared for travel is still an essential part of the process.
Rabies vaccination is one of the most important requirements for dogs entering the United States. Regulations are determined by the CDC and depend on where your dog has been in the six months prior to travel.
Careful planning is essential to ensure your dog meets all vaccination timelines and documentation standards.
Additional requirements may apply depending on your pet’s country of origin. For example:
These requirements are reviewed at the port of entry and must be addressed before departure.
Cats entering the United States have fewer federal requirements than dogs, but they must appear healthy upon arrival. Cats may be inspected at the port of entry, and if there are signs of illness, further veterinary evaluation may be required. While rabies vaccination is not federally required for cats, it is strongly recommended and may be required by your destination state.
Each U.S. state may have its own import requirements, including vaccination rules, health certificates, or additional documentation. For example, locations such as Hawaii and Guam enforce strict quarantine protocols. It’s important to review your destination state’s regulations well in advance to avoid complications upon arrival.
In addition to government regulations, airlines have their own policies regarding pet travel. These may include crate specifications, documentation checks, and route restrictions. Meeting both airline and federal requirements is essential to ensure your pet is approved for travel and transported safely.
All pets entering the United States are subject to inspection at the port of entry. If there are concerns related to health or documentation, authorities may require quarantine, additional veterinary evaluation, or in some cases, re-export of the animal. Proper preparation helps avoid these issues and ensures a smooth entry process.
While the United States does not have a nationwide ban on specific dog breeds, airlines and local jurisdictions may impose restrictions on certain breeds or snub-nosed (brachycephalic) pets due to safety concerns. Understanding these limitations in advance helps ensure safe and compliant travel planning.
Official requirements for bringing pets into the United States are governed by agencies such as USDA APHIS and the CDC. Because regulations can change and vary based on your situation, it’s important to review current guidelines or work with experienced professionals to ensure full compliance before travel.
Let us handle all of the details and effortlessly manage your pet’s relocation from start to finish!
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