Updated: 2026-10-11
Read the chip first
Ask the veterinarian to scan the chip and compare every digit with the records. A number copied incorrectly can disconnect a valid vaccination or laboratory result from the animal travelling. Save the implant or identification date and ask how the destination treats a replacement chip or an unreadable original.
Order matters
Great Britain requires identification before rabies vaccination. Japan’s ordinary non-designated-region procedure also links identification, vaccinations and the antibody test in a defined sequence. Do not assume an old vaccine becomes usable merely because a chip was fitted later; ask the authority how to correct the record.
Build one consistent file
Keep the original record, vaccine name, batch, administration date and validity together. Compare the chip on the laboratory report and health certificate before they are finalised. Treat a correction as a documented change by the issuer; avoid editing an official certificate yourself or assuming a translated copy replaces its original.
Government & airline references
GOV.UK · Pet travel to Great Britain ↗
MAFF Animal Quarantine Service ↗
AVS · Importing dogs and cats ↗