Florida

Florida Pet Import Rules and Requirements

A Comprehensive Guide to Importing Pets to Florida

Are you planning a move to the Sunshine State with your furry friend? Importing pets to Florida involves a few essential steps to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Here's what you need to know:

Moving to Florida With Your Pet

Attention: This information is to be used as general guidelines and may not be updated to meet the current requirements. Before you travel, be sure to contact the appropriate authorities or a PetRelocation Specialist.

Health Certificate

  • Within 10 days of departure, your veterinarian must issue a Health Certificate, as all airlines require. This certificate states that your pet is healthy and fit to fly. The Health Certificate must be issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian. It should include your pet's microchip number, vaccination records, and a statement that it is free from infectious diseases.

Rabies Vaccination and Tag (Recommended)

  • Most states, including Florida, require that dogs have a rabies tag proving they have an up-to-date rabies vaccine. The rabies vaccine should be administered at least 28 days before travel, and pets must be re-vaccinated every three years.
  • A Rabies Certificate with the vaccine's name, lot number, expiration date, and the veterinarian's original signature in blue ink should accompany the Health Certificate.

Additional Considerations

  • Although not required for entry into Florida, it's recommended that pets be microchipped for identification purposes.
  • If your pet arrives from outside the United States, check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for additional requirements and restrictions.

At PetRelocation, our specialists are dedicated to providing seamless pet transport solutions for you and your pet. Whether moving domestically or internationally, we're here to help you easily navigate the pet relocation process.

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