Updated: 2026-10-11
The entry authority
Start with the destination authority: CDC for the relevant US animal-import rules, AQS for Japan, or AVS for Singapore. Read the branch for the species, purpose and previous residence. A destination’s permission does not reserve a place on an aircraft, and an airline’s confirmation does not replace entry clearance.
The certifying veterinarian
Ask the export authority which veterinarian may complete the certificate and whether government endorsement is required. A clinic’s vaccination record can support a certificate without being the certificate itself. Before an appointment, send the correct form and the pet’s chip number, vaccination dates and intended entry date.
The operating airline
Get confirmation for each operating carrier and transport mode. Ask where the pet is accepted and collected, which documents are checked, and what happens after an aircraft change. Keep the reservation reference with the import and export paperwork so that each organisation can check its own part of the journey.
Government & airline references
CDC · Dog import requirements ↗
MAFF Animal Quarantine Service ↗
AVS · Importing dogs and cats ↗