Division of Environmental Health Office of the State Veterinarian

Bringing Dogs, Cats, and Ferrets to Alaska

Required Documentation

• A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), or health certificate, issued by a licensed and accredited veterinarian within 30 days of import. 
• A current rabies vaccination certificate. Dogs, cats, and ferrets 12 weeks of age or older must have a current rabies vaccination. If the initial rabies vaccination was administered within 30 days before import, the animal must be confined for the balance of the 30 days while in Alaska. The vaccination date, vaccine manufacturer, and serial number must be listed on the CVI.
• An import permit is not required for dogs, cats, or ferrets unless the animal originates in a rabies quarantine area. Persons with animals coming from a rabies quarantine area are required to contact the Alaska Office of the State Veterinarian at 907-375-8215 for travel instructions and an import permit.
• Some communities and local governments in Alaska have additional health of pet licensing requirements. Be sure to check with the borough, city, or village you are intending on traveling to, or residing in, for their requirements.

Traveling by Air

• Although some airlines may not require a CVI for animals traveling in cabin, the State of Alaska requires all animals imported into Alaska to have CVI issued by a licensed and accredited veterinarian. This includes animals that travel with the owner in the cabin, regardless of the airline policy.
• CVIs are valid for 30 days. However, airlines may require a CVI to be issued in a shorter timeframe or require additional certification statements, such as temperature acclimation statements. Confirm your airline's specific requirements before obtaining a CVI.

International Travel, Including Through Canada

In addition to a CVI and current rabies vaccination, other agencies may also have requirements for cats, dogs, and ferrets traveling through Canada or originating in another country. Please contact the following agencies for their current requirements: 

• U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
• Please note new import requirements for dogs effective August 1, 2024. 
• U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Veterinary Services (USDA APHIS VS)
• Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)

Resources

• Alaska Animal Health Regulations

Page last published: 04/21/2026