Holiday Travel Updates for Pet Owners
With the holidays approaching, many families are preparing for vacation, including those bringing along their four-legged family members. If you’re planning international travel with your dog, the USDA has recently updated re-entry requirements for dogs returning to the United States from countries affected by New World Screwworm.
While the CDC oversees most pet import/export policies, the USDA enforces additional rules specifically for this disease. Below is a quick overview to help you prepare.
USDA Requirements for Dogs Returning to the U.S. Traveling From a Screwworm-Affected Country
Dogs may enter the United States only with an official certificate signed by a full-time government veterinarian of the country of origin. This certificate must confirm that:
- The dog was inspected for screwworm within 5 days prior to travel, and
- The dog is free from screwworm, OR
- If previously infested, the dog was quarantined and treated until fully free of screwworm before departure.
Please note:
- No specific USDA template is required; the certification may be standalone or included within an export health certificate.
- Documentation will be reviewed and your dog will be inspected at the port of entry.
- For more information about obtaining certificate endorsement by an official government veterinarian, contact the Animal Health Competent Authority of the country your pet is traveling from.
For additional support in identifying a foreign Animal Health Competent Authority, please visit:
- Members—World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)
- U.S. Department of State—Contact Info for Foreign Embassies and Consulates
Need to know if your destination is affected?
Click here for a comprehensive list of countries where Screwworm is known to exist.
How Credelio Can Give An Added Peace of Mind
While learning that your travel destination is a country affected by screwworm can feel overwhelming, you may find some reassurance in knowing that the FDA has granted Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Credelio to help prevent and treat screwworm infestation in dogs. Credelio (lotilaner) is already familiar to many pet parents as a trusted flea and tick preventative. Recent studies show that it is extremely effective and fast-acting against screwworm—eliminating 93% of larvae within 6 hours and achieving complete elimination within 24 hours.
Things to Remember
- Credelio does not replace the USDA’s required paperwork or inspections, but it can offer an added layer of peace of mind for families traveling to higher-risk areas.
- Credelio is a prescription medication and is not recommended for every pet. Please speak with your veterinarian to determine whether it’s the right option for your dog.
Taking Care of Your Pet at Home, Too
Whether you’re preparing for travel or staying close to home this holiday season, keeping your pet healthy is always a priority. To help make that easier, we want to highlight a great way to save on many of the veterinary products that keep your pet protected year-round.
The Zoetis Petcare Rewards Program offers an easy way to earn rewards on many products you may already be purchasing. Popular eligible products include: Apoquel Simparica Trio, Revolution Plus as well as in-hospital treatments such as Cytopoint, Solensia, and Librela.
Redeem Rewards in 3 Easy Steps
- Join the Pack
Scan the QR code on eligible products or visit the Zoetis Petcare Rewards website to sign up. You can also download The Pack app for easy access and tracking.
- Fetch Your Points
Submit invoices within 30 days of purchase to earn points.
- Redeem Your Rewards
Exchange points for:- Mastercard gift cards for veterinary visits
- Fun merch like toys, bowls, and tote bags
- Donations to charitable organizations
Bonus Perks:
Enjoy anniversary gifts, extra point opportunities, and seasonal surprises through the app!
Need to refill your pet’s medication? Submit your request online for easy in-hospital pickup or home delivery through our online pharmacy.
Traveling soon? If your pet requires a health certificate, please give us a call at (248) 609-1625; our reception team will make sure you’re scheduled properly for your destination’s guidelines.
For all other non-urgent appointments, call us or book online anytime
If you have any questions about travel requirements, health certificates, or your pet’s preventive care, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Safe travels, happy holidays, and give your pets an extra cuddle from us!