Start with the origin address
Colorado’s temporary NWS rule is based on the origin state and current zone status. Confirm the pickup address before the veterinary appointment so the correct certificate timing is used.
The short answer
For ordinary entry into Colorado, dogs and cats generally need a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection issued by an accredited veterinarian within 30 days before arrival. Pets over 3 months old should have current rabies vaccination documented. Animals coming from a state with an active New World Screwworm infested zone are subject to Colorado’s shorter, current movement requirements.
At a glance
What to prepare for a Colorado trip
Health certificate (CVI)
Prepare a CVI issued within 30 days before ordinary entry; affected NWS origins can require a much shorter window.
Rabies
Dogs and cats over 3 months old should be currently vaccinated, with the vaccination documented on the CVI.
Special alert
If the origin state has an active NWS infested zone, Colorado currently requires a CVI within 5 days and additional movement documentation.
Plan the paperwork
Details that can change the trip
Keep rabies details with the trip
Carry the rabies certificate or make sure the vaccine date, product, and expiration information appear on the CVI.
Coordinate the veterinary visit with pickup
A 30-day ordinary certificate may not satisfy a temporary 5-day rule. Book the examination only after checking the current Colorado import page.
Important before you book
Disease-control orders can change quickly. Recheck Colorado’s official import page immediately before travel, especially when the pet starts in or passes through an NWS-affected state.
Ground transport
Snout Route service in Colorado
Snout Route coordinates door-to-door ground pet transport in Colorado as part of service across the 48 contiguous U.S. states, Alaska, and Canada. We review the route and the documents supplied for the trip before pickup; the pet owner and veterinarian remain responsible for satisfying the applicable government requirements.
Primary sources
Check the official rule before travel
These links go to the agencies responsible for the requirements summarized on this page.
Common questions
Colorado pet transport FAQ
Does Colorado require a health certificate for a dog or cat?
Yes. For ordinary interstate entry, prepare a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection issued within 30 days before arrival. A shorter window can apply to an NWS-affected origin.
What rabies paperwork should travel with the pet?
Dogs and cats over 3 months old should have current rabies vaccination documented on the health certificate or accompanying vaccination record.
When does Colorado’s five-day CVI rule apply?
Colorado currently applies the shorter rule to animals entering from states with an active New World Screwworm infested zone. Check the official page for the latest scope before travel.
Planning a Colorado move?
Tell us where your pet is going.
Share the pickup, destination, timing, and care needs. We’ll review the route and tell you what we need before the trip is confirmed.
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