Equine Health Certificates

Whether you are heading to a weekend show, crossing state lines for a trail ride, or selling a horse to a new home, a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI)—commonly known as a Health Certificate—is a vital document.

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What is a Health Certificate?

A Health Certificate is an official document issued by an accredited veterinarian. It verifies that your horse has been examined and found free of clinical signs of communicable diseases. At Red Oak Animal Hospital, our accredited veterinarians ensure that your horse meets all state and federal requirements for travel.

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Why are Health Certificates important?

Legal Compliance: Most states require a CVI (health certificate) and a negative Coggins test (for Equine Infectious Anemia) to be presented at border crossings.
Disease Prevention: These certificates are the first line of defense against the spread of contagious diseases like Equine Herpesvirus (EHV-1), Influenza, and Strangles.
Venue Requirements: Most boarding stables, showgrounds, and organized trail rides require proof of health to protect all horses on the premises.
Peace of Mind: A professional exam ensures your horse is fit for the stress of travel, reducing the risk of illness during transit.

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What to expect during your appointment

During a health certificate exam, our team will perform a physical assessment, verify your horse's identity/markings, and check your current Coggins paperwork. We will also verify that your horse is up to date on any required or recommended vaccinations. Please note that most certificates are valid for 30 days from the date of the exam.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

About Equine Health Certificates aka Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI)

Why does my horse need a Health Certificate?

A Health Certificate (CVI) is legally required for most interstate travel. It serves as a “clean bill of health,” proving that your horse has been examined by an accredited veterinarian and is not showing signs of contagious disease. This protects your horse, the horses at your destination, and the livestock industry at large.

How long is a Health Certificate valid?

Standard Health Certificates are typically valid for 30 days. However, if you are traveling to a specific event or a different state, always check their specific requirements, as some may require a certificate issued within a shorter amount of time, like within 10 days of arrival.

What do I need for my appointment?

You will need a current negative Coggins test. If Red Oak Animal Hospital performed your Coggins, we will have it on file. You will also need the physical address of your destination, the date of travel, and contact information for the transporter.