For many Shanghai residents, cats and dogs are more than companions – they're part of the family.

And as international travel grows, more pet owners want to take their "fur kids" overseas. But before a cat or dog can board a plane, there's one crucial document to secure: the Animal Health Certificate. Without it, pets won't be allowed out of China, and in some cases, they may even be refused entry upon arrival.

Shanghai Customs, which handles the largest number of outbound pets in the country, has published a clear set of steps to help owners. Here's what you need to know.

What is an Animal Health Certificate

The Animal Health Certificate proves that a pet is healthy and meets the requirements of the destination country. Each place has its own rules: Some demand rabies vaccinations given at specific times, others require blood tests for rabies antibodies, and some ask for proof of deworming. If these conditions aren't met, pets risk being quarantined, sent back, or worse.

The certificate itself is only valid for a short time – usually 14 days, and just 10 days for the European Union. That means timing is critical. Customs recommends filing the online application 10 to 14 days before departure, and completing the physical inspection seven to 10 days before travel.

How to Apply for an Animal Health Certificate

Step One: Online Application

The process begins online. Owners must log into either the China International Trade Single Window (www.singlewindow.cn/#/) or the "Internet + Customs" platform (online.customs.gov.cn), both of which now feature a special section for exit pet quarantine services. First-time users need to register – individuals with their passport or ID, and businesses with an IC card.

The system requires basic information about the owner and the pet, along with details of rabies vaccination history.

Owners must also upload supporting documents. These include a valid rabies vaccination certificate, a pet photo, and in some cases, a rabies antibody test report from a government-recognized lab.

Dogs must have a Shanghai Dog Registration Certificate, while cat owners may need to show proof of residence in Shanghai if vaccinations were given elsewhere.

Once submitted, the application is usually reviewed within three working days. Status updates can be tracked online. If approved, the owner can book the next step: a physical inspection.

Step Two: On-Site Quarantine

Every pet must undergo a health check. In Shanghai, this inspection takes place at the Sanmen Road Customs Office (黄浦海关三门路办公区, Address: 617 Sanmen Rd 三门路617号) in suburban Baoshan District. Owners should bring all original documents – from passports to vaccination booklets – and of course, the pet itself.

Customs officers will confirm that the pet matches the submitted records and check its overall health. If an animal appears sick, shows signs of disease, or simply behaves aggressively, Customs has the right to stop the inspection. Certificates are also denied if paperwork is incomplete or does not meet destination requirements.

Step Three: Collecting the Certificate

If the inspection is cleared, the certificate will be ready in about three working days. Owners can collect it at the Customs Clearance Service Hall (黄浦海关通关服务大厅, Address: 7/F, 8 Huaihai Rd M. 淮海中路8号7楼) in Huangpu District.

The collection slip and passport are required. If someone else is collecting on the owner's behalf, they must present a signed authorization letter, their own ID and a copy of the owner's passport.

The process is designed to make international travel with pets smoother and safer. By moving much of the application online, Shanghai Customs has cut down on paperwork and waiting times. Still, the responsibility falls on owners to prepare early, double-check destination requirements, and ensure their pets are healthy.

With the right preparation, Shanghai pet owners can avoid last-minute stress – and ensure their cats and dogs are ready for a safe trip abroad. After all, when the whole family travels, no one wants to leave the furry members behind.