Certificate of Veterinary Inspection
A certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) is an official document issued by a federal accredited veterinarian certifying that the animals identified on the document have been inspected and were found to satisfy the regulations pertaining to their intended movement. This could be within the same state (intrastate), between states (interstate), or internationally.
What is a USDA-accredited veterinarian?
A USDA-accredited veterinarian has completed formal training, in addition to their Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), from the National Veterinary Accreditation Program (NVAP) in the State(s) they are licensed to practice medicine. Accreditation is State-specific and voluntary (not all veterinarians are accredited).
What information needs to be on a CVI?
CVI must clearly list the following:
- A raised seal (this is to ensure it’s authentic)
- Veterinarian’s signature and USDA (NOT STATE) accreditation number
- Breeder’s name and address
- USDA and/or state license number (if applicable)
- All required vaccinations (rabies, DAPP, etc) and results of the health exam
- Was the CVI issued in the last 30 days? This varies by state. You can check your state’s law here.
*Don’t confuse the “Guarantee of Good Health” or “Purchaser’s Agreement” for a CVI.
What red flags should I look for on a puppy’s CVI?
- Missing or incomplete information.
- Puppy listed as coming from a broker, not a breeder.
- Multiple puppies grouped under one transport.
- Vaccines given too early (before 6–7 weeks).
- Dates that don’t line up with puppy’s age.
Are there federal and/or state laws requiring CVI’s?
Yes and no.
- Federal: Because pet stores typically qualify under the AWA’s “retail pet store” exemption, they are not legally required to provide a CVI unless state-specific law mandates it. However, online sellers that ship across state lines are required to have a CVI. Intrastate transport will be subject to the different state laws.
- State: In most states, a CVI is only required when an animal crosses state lines. But some states extend that requirement to all sales, transfers, or adoptions within the state, mostly to strengthen consumer protection and animal welfare.