Pet Travel Certificate: What the Rules Say
Planning to travel with your dog on a Indian Railways or flight, but your trusted vet lives in another city? Wondering if they can issue a travel certificate without being in your current location? Here’s everything you need to know about pet travel certificates, railway rules and legal protocols in India.
Table of Contents
Why a Travel Certificate Is Required for Dogs
When you’re taking your pet — like a dog or cat — on Indian Railways or domestic flights, authorities require a “Fit-to-Travel” certificate issued by a registered veterinarian.
This document confirms:
- Your pet is healthy
- Free from infectious diseases
- Has received required vaccinations (especially rabies)
- Is fit to travel without distress
Can a Vet from Another City Issue the Travel Certificate?
✅ Yes — BUT only if they physically examine your dog in person
This is the most important legal and ethical requirement.
According to the Veterinary Council of India (VCI) and standard veterinary practice:
A vet must personally examine the animal before issuing any health or fitness certificate.
Scenario Example:
Let’s say your vet is from Guwahati and you’re currently in Delhi. If the vet:
- Travels to Delhi
- Sees your dog in person
- Performs a physical exam
Then YES, he can legally and ethically issue the travel certificate — even though he’s registered in Guwahati.
What’s Not Allowed
- A vet cannot issue a certificate remotely, just by video call or photos
- A pet parent’s declaration letter is not a substitute for a vet’s certificate
- The vet must examine the dog within 24–72 hours of the planned travel
Remote certificates may be rejected by rail authorities and could even violate vet practice laws.
What the Travel Certificate Should Include
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Pet’s Name & Breed | e.g., Oscar, Male Labrador |
| Age & Weight | Approximate or known |
| Vaccination Status | Rabies date, deworming info |
| Examination Date & Location | Must match the actual visit |
| Vet’s Name | With registration number |
| Clinic Details | Can be Guwahati (or base city), even if vet examined in Delhi |
| Signature & Stamp | Mandatory |
Optional: Add owner’s declaration of responsibility for pet’s food, water and hygiene during travel.
Sample Line in Certificate:
“I have personally examined the above-mentioned dog on [date] in Delhi and found her fit for travel by Indian Railways.”
Railway Requirements for Pet Travel (Quick Checklist)
- Fitness Certificate (within 3 days of travel)
- Rabies Vaccination Proof/Vaccination Card
- Booking in AC First Class Coupe.
- Owner must be present throughout the journey
- Extra fare applies for dogs (paid at parcel office)
Final Woof
You can absolutely get a fitness travel certificate from your trusted vet in another city — as long as they see your pet in person. What matters isn’t the city, it’s the care, honesty and physical examination.
Dogs can’t speak, but your paperwork must — with truth, love and legality.
Checklist for Pet Travel Prep
- Get certificate 1–2 days before travel
- Carry vaccination card photocopy
- Keep water, food, leash and soft bedding
- Don’t sedate unless strictly advised by vet
- Arrive early at station with pet and papers
Because every journey with your dog should start with truth and trust. 🐶🚆
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