Dog and Cat Movement Requirements

Important Notice

While currently not in Florida, New World screwworm (NWS), has been detected in the United States. An NWS Certificate of Animal Movement with prior permission number is required for all warm-blooded animals originating from Infested Zones. For a list of NWS-affected states and the additional interstate import requirements, please visit www.FDACS.gov/nws.

Intrastate (Movement Within Florida)

Florida does not have any requirements for moving dogs or cats within the state.

In Florida, all dogs and cats 4 months of age and older must have a current U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved rabies vaccination.

Interstate (Movement Between States)

Moving Dogs and Cats into Florida

Requirements for Pets

A pet must have:

An Official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) within 30 days of issuance, unless the pet is privately owned and traveling with its owner or meets an exception listed in Rule 5C-3.009, Florida Administrative Code, and
A current rabies vaccination, if the pet is 3 months of age or older. Adequate proof of current vaccination must be from a licensed veterinarian.

Most airlines require a health certificate issued by a licensed and accredited veterinarian within seven to 10 days of travel. Check with your airline and local veterinarian for more information.

Requirements for Dogs and Cats Entering Florida to Be Sold

For dogs and cats entering Florida to be sold, you must also comply with Florida's Pet Law (Section 828.29, Florida Statutes).

Moving Dogs and Cats out of Florida

For requirements to move animals from Florida to another state, contact the State Animal Health Official (usually the State Veterinarian) in your state of destination. See a list of the animal health officials in all 50 states.

International (Movement to or from Foreign Countries)

Visit the USDA website for information about international pet travel.