Which certificate is used for international movement of animals?

• A. The International Health Certificate (IHC)
• B. The Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI)
• C. The Import Permit
• D. The Airline Health Declaration

Answer: (A)

Documentation that proves an animal is healthy and meets travel requirements is essential for international movement. The International Health Certificate is the standard document used for this purpose: it is issued by a licensed veterinarian (often with endorsement from the national veterinary authority) and confirms the animal’s identity, vaccination status, required test results, and overall health at the time of travel. This certificate is specifically recognized by destination countries’ import authorities and accompanies the animal during transit.

A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection is typically used for domestic movements within a country, though it may be required in some international cases; it is not the universal health proof for international travel. An Import Permit is a regulatory authorization to allow entry, but it does not certify the animal’s health. An Airline Health Declaration is a form used by airlines to assess welfare and health considerations for flight, but it does not substitute for the official health certificate.