What belongs on the CVI
New York asks for the full destination address and a statement covering infectious or communicable disease, external parasites, and fungi. The rabies product name and vaccination date should be recorded.
The short answer
A dog or cat entering New York from another U.S. state generally needs a CVI or health certificate issued 30 days or less before entry. The document should list the New York destination address and state that the examination found no clinical evidence of infectious or communicable disease. Pets three months and older need a current rabies vaccination recorded on the certificate.
At a glance
What to prepare for a New York trip
Health certificate (CVI)
Generally required within 30 days before entry.
Rabies
Current vaccination is required for dogs and cats three months of age or older.
Exceptions
Certain stays under 30 days, exhibition entries, and qualifying returning New York resident dogs are exempt from the CVI.
New York City
City-specific health and licensing rules may apply in addition to state requirements.
Plan the paperwork
Details that can change the trip
CVI exceptions
New York lists exceptions when the animal will stay fewer than 30 days, enters for exhibition, or is a New York resident dog returning within one year with proof of a current license and rabies vaccination.
New York City destinations
Dogs and cats entering New York City must also meet city health rules. Confirm those requirements separately when the delivery address is in the five boroughs.
Important before you book
A short-stay exception may not match a permanent relocation, adoption, or delivery to a new owner. Use the actual purpose and destination of the trip when checking the rule.
Ground transport
Snout Route service in New York
Snout Route coordinates door-to-door ground pet transport in New York 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
New York pet transport FAQ
How recent must a New York pet health certificate be?
For ordinary interstate entry, New York requires the CVI or health certificate to be issued 30 days or less before entry.
Does every short visit require a New York CVI?
New York lists an exemption when the animal is staying fewer than 30 days, but rabies and any city or trip-specific rules still need to be checked.
Are New York City rules the same as the rest of the state?
New York City can impose additional requirements, so a delivery within the city should be checked against both state and city guidance.
Planning a New York move?
Tell us where your pet is going.
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