Prior to the pet’s departure from the United States, many countries require APHIS to endorse (counter-sign and emboss/stamp) the pet’s health certificate after it has been issued by a USDA Accredited Veterinarian. Endorsement is a final review process, where APHIS officials verify that the information on the health certificate is accurate and ensure that the pet meets the destination country’s requirements.
APHIS officials must review the health certificate and all supporting documents, including vaccination certificates and test results, in order to complete the endorsement process. The following items need to be provided for endorsement of the health certificate:
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The original health certificate issued (completed, signed, and dated) by the USDA Accredited Veterinarian that examined the pet before travel.
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Vaccination certificates (e.g. rabies vaccine certificates) and laboratory test results for vaccinations and tests recorded on the health certificate.
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Import permits, when applicable.
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Payment