Cats and dogs do not have identical rabies language
Michigan’s ordinary dog rule expressly requires rabies vaccination at 12 weeks. The ordinary cat page requires the CVI but lists additional rabies requirements for shelter and pet-shop cats.
The short answer
Dogs and cats entering Michigan from another state need an official interstate Certificate of Veterinary Inspection completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian in the state of origin. Michigan does not require an ordinary entry permit for dogs or cats. Dogs 12 weeks or older must be currently vaccinated against rabies.
At a glance
What to prepare for a Michigan trip
Health certificate (CVI)
Both dogs and cats need an official interstate CVI completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian in the origin state.
Entry permit
Michigan does not issue or require an ordinary dog-or-cat import permit number.
Dog rabies
Dogs 12 weeks or older must be currently vaccinated against rabies, with the information listed on the CVI.
Plan the paperwork
Details that can change the trip
Shelter and pet-shop moves have added rules
Michigan sets minimum ages, core vaccinations, and possible parasite-treatment requirements for animals entering registered shelters or pet shops.
NWS-affected origins require extra planning
Michigan’s current NWS order can require a special inspection statement, advance submission, a permit, or a shorter certificate window depending on the exact origin zone.
Important before you book
Do not use the ordinary pet rule for a shelter, pet shop, exhibition, wolf-dog hybrid, or NWS-affected origin. Those cases have separate requirements on Michigan’s official pages.
Ground transport
Snout Route service in Michigan
Snout Route coordinates door-to-door ground pet transport in Michigan 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
Michigan pet transport FAQ
Do dogs and cats need a health certificate to enter Michigan?
Yes. Both need an official interstate CVI completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian in the state of origin.
Does Michigan require an entry permit for an ordinary pet move?
No. Michigan’s dog and cat pages state that no ordinary import permit number is required.
Which dogs need a rabies vaccination?
Dogs 12 weeks or older must be currently vaccinated against rabies, and the vaccination information should be listed on the CVI.
Planning a Michigan move?
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