Guidance Document  
 
A guidance document issued by the Ministry for Primary Industries  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Cats and Dogs  
CATDOG.GEN  
7 April 2021  
 Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  1 of 30 
 
 
 Title 
Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs  
About this document  
This guidance document contains information about acceptable ways of ensuring compliance with the 
requirements in the Import Health Standard (IHS): Cats and Dogs .  
Any guidance on how to comply with the applicable requirements may not be the only way to achieve 
compliance. Stakeholders are encouraged to discuss departures from the approaches outlined in this 
guidance document with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to avoid expending resources on the 
development of alternative approaches which may later be considered unsuitable.  
The term “must” is not typically used in guidance. In this particular document if the term “must” is used, it is 
used in the context of quoting or paraphrasing the requirements set out in the related IHS: Cats and Dogs . 
Related Requirements  
Import Health Standard: Cats and Dogs  
Document  history  
Refer to Appendix 1.  
Contact Details  
For further information and questions about this guidance document, please contact;  
 
Ministry for Primary Industries  
Animal and Plant Health  
Biosecurity New Zealand  
PO Box 2526  
Wellington 6140  
Email: animal .imports@mpi.govt.n z 
Disclaimer  
This guidance does not constitute, and should not be regarded as, legal advice . While every effort has been 
made to ensure the information in this guidance is accurate, the Ministry for Primary Industries does not accept 
any responsibility or liability whatsoever for any error of fact, omission, interpretation or opinion that may be 
present, however it may have occurred.  
Copyright  
Crown copyright ©. This copyright work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 New Zealand 
licence. In essence, you are free to copy, distribute and adapt the work, as long as you attribu te the work to the Ministry for Primary 
Industries and abide by the other licence terms. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/nz/ . 
Please note that n o governmental emblem, logo or Coat of Arms may be used in any way which infringes any provision of the Flags, 
Emblems, and Names Protection Act 1981 or would infringe such provision if the relevant use occurred within New Zealand. 
Attribution to the Minis try for Primary Industries should be in written form and not by reproduction of any such emblem, logo or Coat of 
Arms.  
 
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 Contents  Page 
1 Purpose  4 
2 Background  4 
3 Definitions  4 
4 Importer Respo nsibilities  4 
4.1 Charges  4 
5 Guidance  4 
5.1 Equivalence  4 
5.2 Incorporation of material by reference  5 
5.3 Approved exporting countries  5 
5.4 Microchips  6 
5.5 Importer Breed Declaration  7 
5.6 Import permit  7 
5.7 Documentation requirements  8 
5.8 Biosecurity clearance at border (Australia)  8 
5.9 Advanced notification of arrival (all countries except Australia)  9 
5.10  Assistance dogs (all countries except Australia)  9 
5.11  Post arrival instructions once biosecurity clearance given  9 
5.12  MPI approved quarantine facilities  10 
5.13  Bedding and crates  10 
5.14 Customs  10 
5.15  Dogs returning from countries with canine heartworm  11 
5.16  Time line  11 
5.17  Transiting other countries  11 
5.18  Treatments  11 
5.19  Yachts  12 
6 Model Veterinary Certificates  14 
6.1 Category 1: Model Veterinary Certificate A - Cats and Dogs from Australia (includes 
Norfolk Island)  14 
6.2 Category 1: Model Veterinary Certificate B - Cats and Dogs from Australia (includes 
Norfolk Island)  17 
6.3 Category 1: Model Short Stay Certificate - Dogs Short Stay (10 Days or Less) in Australia
 18 
6.4 Category 2: Model Veterinary Certificate A - Cats and Dogs from Countries or Territories 
Recognised as Rabies Free  19 
6.5 Category 2: Model Veterinary Certificate B - Cats and Dogs from Countries or Territories 
Recognised as Rabies Free  23 
6.6 Category 3: Model Veterinary Certificate A - Cats and Dogs from Specified Countries or 
Territories where Rabies is Absent or Well Controlled  24 
6.7 Category 3: Model Veterinary Certificate B - Cats and Dogs from Specified Countries or 
Territories where Rabies is Absent or Well Controlled  28 
Appendix 1 – Document History  29 Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
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 Appendix 2 – Assistance Dog Home Quarantine Agreement  30 
 
 
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 1 Purpose  
(1) This guidance document has been issued to accompany the IHS: Cats and Dogs . This guidance 
document should be read in conjunction with that IHS.  
2 Background  
(2) The IHS: Cats and Dogs,  which this guidance document accompanies  contains generic import 
requirement s. These are the rules to manage the biosecurity risk of importing cats and dogs  from 
approved countries that meet the requirements of the IHS and in doing so meet New Zealand’s 
appropriate level of protection. The generic IHS serves as the basis for count ry-to-country (bilateral) 
negotiations. This guidance document contains model veterinary certificate s for trade in cats and dogs . 
These  model v eterinary certificate s represent what will be certified prior to the export of  consignments 
of cats and dogs  from approved countries.   
3 Definitions  
(1) Refer to Schedule 2 in the IHS: Cats and Dogs.  
4 Importer Responsibilities  
(1) The costs to MPI in performing functions relating to the importation of cats and dogs will be recovered 
in accordance with the Biosecurity Act 1993  (the Act)  and any regulations made under that Act. All 
costs involved with documentation, transport, storage and obtaining a biosecurity clearance must be 
covered by the importer or agent.  
4.1 Charges  
(1) All costs associated with importing a cat or dog are the responsibility of the importer. This includes but 
is not exclusive to: inspection, testing, treatment, and transport.  
5 Guidance  
5.1 Equivalence  
(1) MPI may accept an alternative method, system or process that can be shown to achieve the 
biosecur ity requirements of the IHS (i.e. equivalence).  
(2) MPI’s preference is that the exporting country’s Competent Authority makes equivalence requests. 
Equivalence requests can be lodged with animal.imports@mpi.go vt.nz . 
(3) Note that a n import permit is not required to import cats and dogs  into New Zealand  from Australia 
provided the requirements of the IHS are met . A permit is required for all other specified countries 
provided the requirements of the IHS are met.  
(4) A permit will be required where specific equivalence measures are approved by MPI. This also applies 
to cats and dogs from Australia where specific equivalence measures are approved by MPI.  
(5) Apply for an online import permit at : https://animalplantimportpermit.mpi.govt.nz/  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
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Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  5 of 30 
 
 
 5.2 Incorporation of material by reference  
(1) Incorporation by reference means that standards, guidelines or lists are incorporated into the IHS and 
they form part of the requirements. Th is is done because technical documents are too large or 
impractical to include in the IHS.  
(2) Where the IHS states that section 142O(1) of the Act does not apply, this means that importers need to 
refer to the most recent version of any standards, guidelines or lists that are incorporated by reference 
in the IHS.  
5.3 Approved exporting countries  
(1) The table below lists those approved  countries that meet the requirements set out in the IHS: Cats and 
Dogs and are approved to export cats and dogs to New Zealand. Count ries will be approved as either 
Category 1, 2 or 3 . 
 
Category 1   
• Import permit  is not required  
• No post -arrival quarantine for compliant ca ts and dogs arrivin g at specified times of inspection  
• Post-arrival inspection required  
 
Australia  Norfolk Island  
 
Category 2:  Countries or Territories Recognised as Rabies Free  
• Import permit is  required  
• Post-arrival quarantine required (minimum 10 days)  
• Post-arrival inspection required  
 
Bahrain  French Polynesia  Iceland  New Caledonia  
Barbados  Guam  Japan  Singapore  
Falkland Islands  Hawaii (USA)  Mauritius  Vanuatu  
Fiji    
 
Category 2:  Pacific Islands  
• Import permit  required  
• Post-arrival quarantine required (minimum 10 days)  
• Post-arrival inspection required  
 
American Samoa  Micronesia, Federated 
States  Papua New Guinea  Tonga, Kingdom of  
Christmas Island  Nauru  Pitcairn Islands  Tuvalu  
Cook Islands  Niue Saipan  Wallis and Futuna  
Kiribati  Palau  Solomon Islands  Western Samoa  
Marshall Islands     
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 Category 3 : Specified Countries or Territories where Rabies is Absent or Well Controlled  
• Import permit  required  
• Post-arrival quarantine required (minimum 10 days)  
• Post-arrival inspection required  
 
Antigua and Barbuda  Czech Republic  Luxembourg  Slovakia  
Aruba  Denmark  Macau  Slovenia, Republic of  
Austria  Finland  Malaysia (Peninsular, Sabah 
& Sarawak only)  South Africa, 
Republic of  
Argentina  France  Malta  South Korea  
Bahamas  Germany  Monaco  Spain  
Balearic Islands  Gibraltar  Montenegro  St Kitt and Nevis  
Belgium  Greece  Netherlands, The   St Lucia  
Bermuda  Greenland  Netherlands Antilles  St Vincent and the 
Grenadines  
British Virgin Islands  Hong Kong  Northern Mariana Islands  Sweden  
Brunei  Hungary  Norway  Switzerland  
Bulgaria  Italy Poland  Taiwan  
Canada  Ireland  Portugal  Trinidad and Tobago  
Canary Islands  Isle of Man  Puerto Rico  United Arab Emirates  
Cayman Islands  Israel  Qatar  United Kingdom  
Chanel Islands  Jamaica  Reunion  USA 
Chile  Kuwait  Serbia  Uruguay  
Croatia, Republic of  Latvia  Seychelles  Virgin Islands (USA)  
Cyprus, Republic of  Lithuania    
(2) If your country is not  an approved country  your pet is not eligible for direct import into New Zealand. 
The options available are:  
a) Move your pet to an approved country or territory where it must complete the six month residency 
and other requirements in the veterinary certificate for that country;  or 
b) Submit a request for inclusion of a country or territory in a veterinary certificate for cats and dogs.  
i) Requests will be prioritised quarterly subject to resource availability.  
ii) Information provided by the government veterinary authority regarding rab ies status and 
control measures, official assurance programmes for veterinary certification and diagnostic 
laboratories, and controls on animal movement will be assessed. This information will be 
assessed in cooperation with the Australian Competent Author ity as Australia and New 
Zealand  have a formal agreement on harmonisation of country approval for cat and dog 
imports.  
iii) Model veterinary certificates are provided in this guidance document. Once a country is 
approved, the model veterinary certificates should accompany consignments.  
5.4 Microchips  
(1) Each animal must be fitted with a microchip for identification. International Standards Organisation  
(ISO) Standard  microchips meeting specifications 11784 or Annex A of ISO Standard 11785 are 
generall y used (and are required for dog registration in New Zealand).  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
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Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  7 of 30 
 
 
 (2) If the microchip does not meet these ISO Standards, it is the importer’s responsibility to ensure that the 
microchip can be read upon entry to New Zealand. This may mean that the importer will  need to 
provide a microchip reader (at his/her expense) to enable the chip to be read. Some ports of entry may 
have microchip readers capable of reading other types of microchip and this should be checked with 
the port before travel.  
(3) Microchips must be sc anned and the number recorded each time a rabies vaccination, test, treatment, 
examination or inspection is done.  
5.5 Importer Breed Declaration  
5.5.1 Exempting statutory declaration by or on behalf of importer dog  
(1) This declaration is to be made on arrival in New Zealand by the importer of the dog (or the importer’s 
agent).  
(2) A form will be provided and an authorised witness will be available at the port of entry or quarantine 
facility.  
5.5.2 Dog Control Act 1996  
(1) Section 30A , Dog Control Act 1996  
(2) Section 30A(1)  of the Dog Control Act 1996 (the Act) prohibits the impo rtation into New Zealand of any 
dog that belongs wholly or predominantly to 1 or more of the breeds or type of dog listed in Schedule 4  
of the Act.  
(3) Section 30A(2)  of the Act provides that no person may import a dog into New Zealand u nless the dog 
is accompanied by:  
a) Evidence of registration in New Zea land; or  
b) An exempting statutory declaration made in New Zealand by or on behalf of the importer of the 
dog (or the importer's agent) to the effect that, to the best of the knowledge and belief of the 
importer (or the importer's agent), the dog does not bel ong wholly or predominantly to 1 or more 
of the breeds or type of dog listed in Schedule 4  of the Act.  
(4) The breeds and type of dog subject to the ban on  importa tion into New Zealand listed in:  
a) Schedule 4  of the Act are:  
i) Breeds:  
• Brazilian Fila  
• Dogo Argentino  
• Japanese Tosa  
• Perro de Presa Canario  
ii) Type:  
• American Pit Bull Terrier  
5.6 Import permit  
(1) An import permit is required for the importation of dogs and cats from all countries except Australia.  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
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 (2) MPI needs a minimum of  10 working days  to process an online application for an import permit . 
Ensure you have submitted the application with enough time for processing and booking flights.   
(3) Ensure you have the correct documentation ready to upload w hen completing the online permit 
application : 
a) Booking for an approved transitional (quarantine) facility . 
b) For cats and dogs from Category 3 countries:  
i) Proof of rabies vaccine (and if this vaccine is a booster, the most recent vaccine prior to 
the booster)  and a copy of the rabies titre test, with microchip numbers on all vaccination 
and treatment records, laboratory results, and certification.  
(4) Permits will be sent to you electronically.  
5.7 Documentation requirements  
(1) Refer to IHS: Cats and Dogs for Documentati on that Must Accompany Goods . 
5.8 Biosecurity clearance at border (Australia)  
(1) Cats and dogs (including assistance dogs) from Australia will be inspected by an MPI veterinarian at 
the border and animals given biosecurity clearance provided the following have be en met:  
a) At least 5 working days prior to the scheduled time of arrival:  
i) Advanced notification of arrival has been given.  
ii) Payment arrangements for veterinary inspection have been made. Refer to form below : 
Payment for MPI Veterinary Inspection Form . Email the notification form to :  
ozdogsandcats@mpi.govt.nz  
b) All import requirements have been met.  
c) The ca t and dog is available for inspection within the times outlined below:  
i) Auckland:  0700 to 1900 hours (weekdays only)  
ii) Christchurch:  1300 to 1700 hours (weekdays only)  
Monday to Friday (except public holidays and a period of time between and around Christmas 
and New Year)  
(2) Cats and dogs that are not given biosecurity clearance will be sent to an approved quarantine facility 
until veterinary inspection is completed on the next working day, or the animal is compliant with the 
import requirements.  
(3) Assist ance dogs that have not been inspected by a MPI veterinarian at the border, will be directed to 
home quarantine by a Quarantine Inspector , and will be inspected on the next working day. If there are 
non-compliant tests or treatments or if external parasites are detected  upon inspection , the dog may be 
directed to a quarantine facility for the required treatment, testing and/or inspections.  
(4) For assistance dogs only, a copy of veterinary certificates and laboratory reports should be sent to the 
email address below at least one working day prior to arrival. This allows MPI to check compliance with 
import requirements prior to arrival.  
(5) MPI contact details:  
Arrival at Auckland :  Phone:  64 9 909 2706  Email:  liveanimalsauckland@mpi.govt.nz  
Arrival at Christchurch:  Phone:  64 3 943 1777  Email:  liveanimalschristchurch@mpi.govt.nz  
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 5.9 Advanced notification of arrival (all countries except Australia)  
(1) Notification of arrival is not required if a cat or dog is going into quarantine on arrival into New Zealand. 
The quarantine facility will do this on behalf of the importer . 
5.10 Assistance dogs (all countries except Australia)  
5.10.1  Advance notice of arrival  
(1) The handl er of the assistance dog should ensure that MPI (at the port of first arrival) is notified at least 
72 hours before the scheduled time of arrival of any animal.  
a) Notification must include the flight number/ship number and scheduled arrival time, so that 
arrangements can be made for an Inspector to meet the dog in the passenger terminal without 
undue delay to the assisted handler. Dogs can only be given clearance at the following port s: 
i) Auckland:  liveanimalsauckland @mpi.govt.nz   
Phone:   64 9 909 2706   
ii) Christchurch:  liveanimalschristchurch@mpi.govt.nz  
Phone   64 3 943 1777  
(2) The handler of the assistance dog should ensure that the completed documentation is sent to the 
contact details above at least 24 hours prior to arrival.  
(3) Refer to Appendix 2 for Assistance Dog Home Quarantine Agreement form.  
5.11 Post arrival instructions once biosecurity clearance given  
(1) The importer shall be advised in writing of the action to be taken if their cat or dog develops any 
symptoms of illness or if ticks are found, as follows:  
a) The animal should be taken to a veterinarian.  
b) The veterinarian should be informed of the animal’s import history.  
c) The Investigation &  Diagnostic Centre (IDC) must be notified of any suspected exotic disease or 
pest by calling 0800 80 99 66.  
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 5.12 MPI approved quarantine facilities  
(1) The following are private facilities run by MPI approved operators and supervised by MPI veterinarians. 
Each op erator sets their own set of charges, visiting hours etc.  
 
Qualified Pet Services   
150 Airfield Road  
Takanini  
Auckland  
New Zealand  
Proprietor: Carol O’Neil  
 
Ph +64 9 299 9539  
Fax +64 9 299 9539  
E-mail: qualifiedpetservices@gmail.com  
Website: www.qualifiedpet.co.nz  Pethaven Quarantine Services  
71a Homestead Road  
RD 1 Pokeno  
Auckland  
New Zealand  
Proprietor: Robyn van den Brink  
 
Ph +64 9 233 6301  
Fax +64 9  233 6302  
E-mail : pethaven@xtra.co.nz  
Website: www.pethavenkennels.co.nz  
Canterbury Quarantine Services   
Highfield Road  
Aylesbury  
Christchurch  
New Zealand  
Proprietors: Karen and Mark Bayliss  
 
Ph +64 3 318 1279  
Fax +64 3 318 1289  
Email: wumba@xtra.co.nz  
Website: www.canterburyquarantine.co.nz  Auckland Quarantine Limited  
235 Brookby Road  
RD 1  
Manurewa  
Auckland  
New Zealand  
Proprietor: Graeme Bell  
 
Ph: 09 216 6012  
Email: info@aucklandquarantine.co.nz   
Website: www.aucklandquarantine.co.nz  
 
5.12.1  Vaccinations required for cats and dogs entering quarantine  
(1) Vaccinations required for cats:  
a) Feline panleukopenia (enteritis), feline rhinotracheitis and feline calicivirus.  
(2) Vaccinations required for dogs:  
a) Canine distemper, in fectious canine hepatitis, canine parvovirus, canine parainfluenza and 
Bordetell a bronchiseptica (kennel cough), canine influenza (if available).  
(3) Some facilities may also require vaccination for leptospirosis.  
5.13 Bedding and crates  
(1) No straw or hay bedding is permitted in the crate. Only inert bedding is permitted, and any bedding or 
toys in the crate will be destroyed on arrival for ectoparasite control.  
(2) The container must comply with the International Air Transport Association (IATA)  regulations and be  
free o f dirt and pests. Contact your pet exporter or see IATA cage regulations for cats and dogs.  
5.14 Customs  
(1) Imported cats and dogs may be subject to Customs charges.  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
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 5.15 Dogs returning from countries with canine heartworm  
(1) Recommendations for dogs imported from countries where heartworm ( Dirofilaria immitis ) is present:   
a) The dog should be tested for heartworm seven months after importation to New Zealand.   
b) Dogs travelling in countries where heartworm is present should be on preventive treatment 
according to the  manufacturer’s recommendations.  
5.16 Time line  
(1) See applicable veterinary certificates for details.  
5.16.1  Preparing your cat or dog to come to New Zealand  
(1) The following link is to a time line for preparing your cat/dog for entry into New Zealand. It is for 
guidance only and must be used in conjunction with the current IHS, and Guidance Document: Cats 
and Dogs . http://www.mpi.govt.nz/importing/live -animals/pets/  
5.17 Transiting other countries  
(1) Cats and dog s can only transit via countries approved for import to New Zealand. See Approved 
Countries and Systems in this document. Please check with your airline and/or pet exporter regarding 
transport arrangements.  
5.18 Treatments  
(1) Note regarding topical flea and tick p roducts : Please do not bathe the animal for two days before and 
two days following the application of a topical treatment for parasites.  
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 5.19 Yachts  
(1) All yachts arriving with animals on board must not berth in New Zealand but must go directly to one of 
the por ts approved as a place of first arrival.   
(2) Animals must be secured below decks on arrival at the port. The importer must immediately notify MPI 
of the presence of an animal on board and whether or not arrangements have been made for the 
animal to go to a qu arantine (transitional) facility.  
(3) Cats or dogs arriving on yachts must remain secured on board at anchor or mooring at an approved 
port until the animal:  
a) Meets all requirements in the veterinary certificate for Cats and Dogs from Specified Countries 
where  Rabies is Absent or Well Controlled  and is given biosecurity clearance, or 
b) Leaves New Zealand within six months of arrival.  
5.19.1  Option 1: Biosecurity clearance for cats and dogs arriving on a yacht  
 
Yachts: Biosecurity Clearance Requirements  
The cat or dog will go through all of the testing and treatment requirements, and then be free to travel throughout New 
Zealand.  
 
Before arrival in New Zealand  
(1) The animal must be microchipped. The microchip must be scanned and recorded on all vaccination and 
treatmen t records, laboratory results, and certification.  
 
(2) The animal must be vaccinated for rabies at least six months before it is eligible to come onshore, and must 
have been vaccinated in the 12 months prior to coming onshore.  
 
(3) The animal must have undergone a rabies antibody test on a blood sample collected at least three weeks after 
the rabies vaccination and tested in a government approved laboratory for rabies serology. The blood sample 
date must be at least three months and no greater than 24 months befor e the dog or cat may come onshore.  
 
(4) During the six months prior to arrival the animal must have only visited, or been on a yacht that has berthed, in 
MPI approved countries.  
 
(5) Apply for an import permit . 
 
After arrival in New Zealand  
(1) Other tests and treatments - see Veterinary Certificate A  for specified countries where rabies is absent or well 
controlled. These may be completed pre -arrival or in an approved quarantine facility. Treatment/testing in a 
quarantine facility may extend the  quarantine period.  
 
(2) Biosecurity clearance : The animal may be sent to the transitional facility stated on the permit once the MPI 
Biosecurity Inspector has verified that the necessary identification, quarantine and transport arrangements have 
been made. Th e Inspector is responsible for ensuring the animal is transported from the yacht to the approved 
transitional facility under secure conditions through the use of an officially sealed cage.  
 
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 5.19.2  Option 2: Yacht moored at anchor (no biosecurity clearance)  
(1) The yacht is moored at anchor with the animal(s) secured on board for six months or less. There is no 
biosecurity clearance.  
 
Yacht: Moored at Anchor Requirements  
The following requirements are for cats and dogs on yachts moored at anchor and not allowed biosecurity clearance:  
 
 
(1) The yacht must remain within the area specified by MPI at an approved place of first arrival. Not all places of 
first arrival are suitable for this and you may be directed to another port. Refer to: 
http://www.mpi.govt.nz/importing/border -clearance/vessels/  
 
(2) A MPI Inspector may allow one movement to a second approved port after assessing the containment risks in 
discussion with t he Animal Imports & Exports Team Manager.  
 
(3) No offshore testing required.  
 
(4) No restrictions on countries visited.  
 
(5) No Import Permit is  required.  
 
(6) The dog or cat remains secured.  
 
(7) Yachts may only remain mid -water. They may not land or berth at a marina.  
 
(8) This option is allowed for a maximum stay of six months. Weekly MPI inspection for compliance is required.  
 
(9) Treatment : A veterinarian must come on board to treat the animal for internal and external parasites under MPI 
supervision. Dogs must fulfil heartwo rm requirements.  
 
(10) If required by a MPI Inspector, the person in charge of any craft shall pay a bond not exceeding $10,000 to 
ensure that the animal does not leave the craft without the permission of an Inspector.  
 
(11) Failure to Comply : Should the animal fail  to comply with the requirements, the Master will be given the option of 
exporting or returning the animal to its place of origin at the cost of the importer or owner, or euthanising the 
animal.  
 
 
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 6 Model Veterinary Certificates  
(1) Each page of veterinary ce rtificate A and B must be signed and stamped.  
6.1 Category 1: Model Veterinary Certificate A - Cats and D ogs from 
Aust ralia (includes Norfolk Island)  
Country:  
I,  ................................ ................................ .............................  , an official government veterinarian or a veterinarian 
authorised to provide export certification on behalf of the government veterinary service of Australia certify the 
following:  
 
Species (cat or dog)  Breed  Microchip number  Name  Sex Neutered or 
entire  Age 
       
       
       
       
       
 
Origin of animals  
(1) Name and address of owner/exporter: .................................................................................................. ................  
.................................................................................................................. .............................................................  
(2) Country or territory of origin: ............................................................................................. ....................................  
(3) Port of departure: ............. ............................................................................................................................. ........  
 
Destination of animals  
(4) Name and address of importer (consignee) in New Zealand : ......................................... .....................................  
............................................................................................................................. ..................................................  
(5) Means of transport: ...................... .........................................................................................................................  
(6) Port of arrival: ............................................................................................................ ......... ..................................  
 
Specified requirements  
(7) I have scanned and confirmed the microchip number above.  
(8) The microchip number is recorded on all vaccination and treatment records, laboratory results and certification.  
(9) After due enquiry and inspection, I am satisfied that the cat or dog:  
(a) Will be more than eight weeks of age at the date of shipment a nd is weaned and fit for travel.  
(b) Will not be more than 42 days p regnant at the date of shipment.  
(c) Has not been under any quarantine restrictio n imm ediately prior to shipment.  
(d) Is not a dog that belongs wholly or predominantly to any of th e following dog breeds or types:  
(i) Breeds:  
1. Brazilian Fila  
2. Dogo Argentino  
3. Japanese Tosa  
4. Perro de Presa Canario  
(ii) Type:  
1. American Pit Bull Terrier  
(e) Is not a hybrid (crossed w ith another species), with the exception of Bengal cats. Documentation of five 
generations of domestic ancestry must be provided for Bengal cats.  
 
Internal parasite treatments  
(10) The cat or dog was treated by a veterinarian twice  with a product (or combinatio n or products) registered for the 
control of nematodes and cestodes at the manufacturer’s recommended dose.  
(a) The first treatment(s) was given in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment and at least two weeks before the 
second treatment.  
First treatment date: ............................................................................................................. ..................   
Name of active ingredient(s): ..................................................................................................................   Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
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 (b) The second treatment (or course of treatment) was given in the four days prior to the date of shipment.  
Second treatment date: ............ .............................................................................................................   
Name of active ingredient(s): ............................................................................................... ..................   
 
External parasite treatments  
(11) The cat or dog was treated by a veterinarian twice with a topical product registered for the control of ticks and fleas 
at the manufacturer’s recommended dose and certified as free from external parasites at each treatment.  
(a) The first treatment was given in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment and at least two weeks before the 
second treatment, and the animal was free of external parasites.  
First treatment/inspection date: ................................................... ...........................................................  
Name of active ingredient(s): ............................................................................................... ..................  
(b) The second treatment was given in the two days prior  to the date of shipment and the animal was free of 
external parasites.  
Second treatment/inspection date: ........................................................................................... .............  
Name of active ingredient(s): ............... .................................................................................................    
 
Heartworm treatment and testing (dogs)  
(12) Treatment (delete as appropriate) : 
(a) The dog has been treated with one of the following in the four days prior to th e date of shipment (delete as 
appropriate) :  
(i) Ivermectin at 6 mcg/kg  
(ii) Milbemycin at 0.5 mg/kg  
(iii) Moxidectin at 2 -4 mcg/kg  
(iv) Selamectin at 6 mg/kg  
Date of treatment: .................................................................................................. ................., or  
(b) The dog is up -to-date on heartworm prevention with a sustained -release injection of moxidectin.  
Date of treatment: .......................................................................................................... ............. .........  
Name of product: ............................................................................................................ .....................  
(13) Testing:  
(a) The dog has been subjected to a heartworm antigen ELISA (enzyme -linked immunosorbent assay ) test with a 
negative result in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment:  
Sample collection date: ..................................................................................................... ....................    
Note: Dispensation for the hear tworm test will be given to New Zealand dogs in Australia for less than two 
months if the dog is accompanied by the New Zealand export certificate.  
 
Babesia gibsoni  tests (dogs) (delete as appropriate)  
(14) The dog has been subjected to an IFA (indirect fluorescent antibody) test or ELISA (enzyme -linked immunosorbent 
assay) test for Babesia gibsoni  with a negative result in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
Sample collection date: ................... .................................................................................................................., or  
(15) The dog has been subjected to two PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests for Babesia species or Babesia gibsoni 
with negative results on s amples collected 30 to 37 days apart, with the second sample collected in the 16 days prior 
to the date of shipment:  
First sample collection date: ............................................................................................... .............. ..................  
Second sample collection date: .............................................................................................. ...........................  
Note:  Dogs diagnosed with  Babesia gibsoni  are not eligible for import, regardless of treatment.  
 
Canine Influenza  
(16) For at least 21 days prior to shipment:  
(a) The cat or dog has not been  kept in a place where there were cats or dogs showing clinical signs o f infectious 
respiratory disease; and  
(b) The cat  or dog  has not shown  clinical signs of infectious respiratory disease.  
 
Examination  
(17) In the two days prior to shipment, I examined the animal( s) and found it/them to be free from:  
(a) Clinical signs of infectious  or contagious diseases.  
(b) External parasites.  
(c) (Only for a dog that is not castrated or spayed) any visible signs of canine transmissible venereal tumour on 
examination of external genitalia (which includes examination of the extruded penis).  
(18) The container in which the animal is to be transported meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA)  
standards and is clean, dry, and free of pests.  
 Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  16 of 30 
 
 
 Note: Government veterinary signature and stamp to be applied to all pages (including laborator y reports).  
Model veterinary certificate B for cats and dogs from Australia (includes Norfolk Island) must also be completed.  
 
Veterinarian registered to practice in Australia  
Name:  
Address:  
Email:   
Signature:    
Date:  
    
  
Official Veterinarian signature, 
Official stamp and date  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  17 of 30 
 
 
 6.2 Category 1: Model Veterinary Certificate B - Cats and D ogs from 
Australia (includes Norfolk Island)  
Country:  
I, ..........................................................................     an Australian O fficial Veterinarian, certif y after due enquiry, in 
regards to the animal identified in the attached veterinary certificate that:  
 
(1) In the 12 months prior to the d ate of export there have been no cases of the following diseases diagnosed in 
Australia:  
(a) Canine brucellosis ( Brucella canis ). 
(b) Rabies . 
(2) To my knowledge, in the 12 months prior to the date of export there have been no cases of Leptospirosis 
caused by Leptospi ra interrogans  serovar canicola  reported in Australia.  
 
(3) The cat or dog was inspected in the two days prior to travel and is :  
(a) Healthy and fit to travel . 
(b) Free from external parasites . 
(c) Free from clinical signs of infectious disease.  
(d) (Only for a dog that is n ot castrated or spayed) free from any visible signs of canine transmissible 
venereal tumour on examination of external genitalia (which includes examination of the extruded 
penis).  
(4) The veterinarian whose signature appears on Veterinary Certificate A  is a registered veterinary practitioner in 
Australia and is authorised to sign export certification to New Zealand.  
 
(5) All tests were conducted at a government approved laboratory.  
 
(6) All of the documents were examined and found to be correctly completed in accordance with New Zealand 
import health standard  requirements. These documents are attached and stamped.  
 
(7) The mic rochip number was confirmed as .....................................................................................  and is 
recorded on all vaccination and treatment records, laboratory results, and certification.  
 
(8) The animal was placed in a container that meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards . 
The container was clean, dry, and free of pests.   
 
 
Note: Government v eterinary signature and stamp to be applied to all pages (including laboratory reports).  
Official Veterinarian  
Name:  
Address:  
Email:  
  
Signature:   
Date:  
    
 
  
Official Veterinarian signature, 
Official stamp and date  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  18 of 30 
 
 
 6.3 Category 1: Model Short Stay Certificate - Dogs S hort Stay (10 
Days or L ess) in Australia  
Country:  Australia  Dog Short Stay Certificate  
Please complete before leaving New Zealand  
 
Dogs travelling to Australia for 10 days or less may be given dispensation from Babesia gibsoni  testing if this form is 
completed before  leaving New Zealand.  
 
(1) This ‘ Short Stay ’ certificate must be completed by a veterinarian in New Zealand, presented to t he veterinarian 
in Australia, and accompany the dog on return to New Zealand along with Veterinary Certificate A  and 
Veterinary Certificate B  for cats and dogs from Australia.  
 
(2) It is highly recommended that the requirements in this certificate are careful ly followed to prevent a delay in 
shipment from Australia or quarantine upon arrival in New Zealand.  
 
(3) Your dog still requires an export certificate from New Zealand to Australia.  
Dates of travel: ........................................................... .....................................................................................   
 
Owner/Importer name: ........................................................................................................ ............................  
 
New Zealand A ddress:  ............................................................................................................................. .......   
 
 
Breed: ........................................................................................................ ......................................................  
Microchip:  ............................................................................................................................. ...........................  
 
(4) Dispensation for Babesia gibsoni  testing will be given for dogs that have been treated for ticks as below.  
 
(5) Dispensation will also be given from the first internal parasite treatment. Heartworm testing is not required for 
dogs that have been in Australia for less than two months.   
 
(6) All other conditions of Veterinary Certificate A  and Veterinary Certificate B  for cats and dogs from Australia 
must be completed and these must travel with your dog.  
 
(7) Some ticks in Australia can spread serious disease and are exotic to New Zealand. Paralysis ticks can kill 
pets. Preventive treatments are not 100% effective. Please check your dog thoroughly for ticks at least once 
daily while in Australia and remove any ticks found.   
 
(8) The dog will be examined for ticks and fleas on arrival in New Zealand.  
 
New Zealand Veterinarian to sign before travelling to Australia  
The dog has been treated with a product(s) registered for the control of ticks and fleas at the manufa cturer’s 
recommended dose.  
I, ................................................................................. being a registered veterinarian in New Z ealand have treated this 
dog with a product(s) registered for the control of ticks and fleas in dogs, in  the four (4) days prior to the scheduled 
time and date of departure to Australia.  
Name:  ............................................................................................................................. ......................................  
Date of external parasite treatment: ........................................................................................... ..........................  
Name of active ingredient: ............................................................................. .......................................................  
Signature: .................................................................................................................. ...........................................  
Date:  ......................... ............................................................................................................................. ...............  
 Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  19 of 30 
 
 
 6.4 Category 2: Model Veterinary Certificate A - Cats and D ogs from 
Countries or Territories Recognised as Rabies F ree 
(1) Each page of veterinary certificate A and B must be signed and stamped.   
 
Country:  NZ Import Permit  number:  
I, ...................................................................... , an official government veterinarian or a veterinarian authorised to 
provide export certification on behalf of the government veterinary service of .............. ................. ........................... 
(country or territory) certify the following:  
 
Species (cat or 
dog)  Breed  Microchip number  Name  Sex Neutered 
or entire  Age 
       
       
       
       
       
Origin of animals  
(9) Name and address of owner/exporter: ....................................................................................................................  
............................................................................................................................. .............. ....................................  
(10) Country or territory of origin: ............................................................................................. ....................................  
(11) Port of departure: ...................................... ............................................................................................................  
Destination of animals  
(12) Name and address of importer (consignee) in New Zealand: ................................................................... ...........  
............................................................................................................................. ..................................................  
(13) Means of transport: ................................................ ...............................................................................................  
(14) Port of arrival: ............................................................................................................ ................................... ........  
Specified requirements  
(15) I have scanned and confirmed the microchip number above.  
(16) The microchip number is recorded on all vaccination and treatment records, laboratory results and certification.  
(17) After due enquiry and inspection, I am satisfied that the cat or dog:  
a) Will be more than 12 weeks of age at the date of shipment.  
b) Will not be more than 42 days pregnant at the date of shipment.  
c) Has resided continuously in  ..................................................................... (co untry of export) for the six 
months immediately preceding export.  
d) Is not a dog that belongs wholly or predominantly to any of the following dog breeds or types:  
(i) Breeds:  
1. Brazilian Fila  
2. Dogo Argentino  
3. Japanese Tosa  
4. Perro de Presa Canario  
(ii) Type:  
1. American Pit B ull Terrier  
e) Is not a hybrid (crossed with another species), with the exception of Bengal cats. Documentation of five 
generations of domestic ancestry must be provided for Bengal cats.  
Internal parasite treatments  
(18) The cat or dog was treated by a veterinarian twice  with a product (or combination or products) registered for the 
control of nematodes and cestodes at the manufacturer’s recommended dose.  
a) The first treatment(s) was given in the 30 days prior to the date of  shipment and at least two weeks 
before the second treatment:  
First treatment date:  ............................................................................................................................. .. 
Name of active ingredient(s): .............. ....................................................................................................  
b) The second treatment (or course of treatment) was given in the four days prior to the date of shipment.  
Second treatment date: ........................... ..............................................................................................  
Name of active ingredient(s): ............................................................................................... .................  
 Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  20 of 30 
 
 
 External parasite  treatments  
(19) The cat or dog was treated by a veterinarian twice with a topical product registered for the control of ticks and 
fleas at the manufacturer’s recommended dose and certified as free from external parasites at each treatment.  
a) The first treatment was given in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment and at least two weeks before 
the second treatment, and the animal was free of external parasites:  
First treatment/inspection date: ..................................................................... .........................................  
Name of active ingredient(s): ............................................................................................... ..................  
b) The second treatment was given in the two days prior to the date of sh ipment and the animal was free of 
external parasites:  
Second treatment/inspection date: ........................................................................................... .............  
Name of active ingredient(s): ................................ ................................................................................    
Heartworm treatment and testing (dogs)  
(20) Treatment (delete as appropriate) : 
a) The dog has been treated with one of the following in the four days prior to the date of shipment  (delete 
as appropriate):  
(i) Ivermectin at 6 mcg/kg  
(ii) Milbemycin at 0.5 mg/kg  
(iii) Moxidectin at 2 -4 mcg/kg  
(iv) Selamectin at 6 mg/kg  
Date of treatment: .......................................................................................................... .........,  or 
b) The dog is up -to-date on heartworm prevention with a sustained -release injection of moxidectin:  
Date of treatment: ............................................................................................................................. ... 
Name of product: ............................................................................................................ .....................  
(21) Testing (dogs six months of age or older on the date of shipment):  
a) The dog has been subjected to a heartworm antigen ELISA (enzyme -linked immunosorbent assay) test 
with a negative result in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment:  
Sample collection date: ........................................................................................................ .................   
Babesia gibsoni  tests (dogs) (delete as appropriate)  
(22) The dog has been subjected to an IFA (indirect fluorescent  antibody) test or ELISA (enzyme -linked 
immunosorbent assay) test for Babesia gibsoni  with a negative result in the 16 days prior to the date of 
shipment:  
Sample collection date: ............................................................................................................................. ........, or  
(23) The dog has been subjected to two PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests for Babesia  species or Babesia 
gibsoni  with ne gative results on samples collected 30 to 37 days apart, with the second sample collected in the 
16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
First sample collection date: .......................................................................................... .....................................  
Second sample collection date: .............................................................................................. ...........................  
Note:  Dogs diagnosed with Babesia gibsoni  are not eligible for im port, regardless of treatment.  
Brucella canis  testing (dogs) (delete as appropriate)  
(24) The dog has been subjected to a RSAT (rapid slide agglutination test) with a negative result in the 16 days prior 
to the date of shipment:  
Sample collection date: ........ ............................................................................................................................. ..,  
or 
a) The dog has been subjected to a TAT (tube agglutination test) with a negative result in the 16 days prior 
to the date of sh ipment:  
Sample collection date: ..................................................................................................... ........................,  
or 
b) The dog has been subjected to a CPAg -AGID (cytoplasmic agar gel immunodiffusion test) with a 
negative result in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
Sample collection date: ..................................................................................................... ........................,  
or 
c) The dog has had a suspicious RSAT or TA T result and has been subjected to a CPAg -AGID with a 
negative result, with the second sample collected in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
RSAT or TAT sample collection date: ...................................................................... .................................  
CPAg -AGID sample collection date: ................................................................................................ ........,  
or  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  21 of 30 
 
 
 d) The dog had a suspicious TAT result and the test was repeated in 30 to 42 day s after the first test with a 
negative result, with the second sample collected in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
First sample collection date: ............................................................................................... ..................         
Second sample collection date: .............................................................................................. ............., and  
(25) For entire dogs only : After due enquiry and to the best of my knowledge, in the 44 days pr ior to the date of 
shipment, the dog did not naturally mate, unless to a dog of equal Brucella canis  health status. Any artificial 
insemination was done with semen that meets the relevant New Zealand import health standard for semen.  
 
Note:  Dogs diagnosed  with Brucella canis  are not eligible for import, regardless of treatment.  
Babesia canis  treatment or tests (dogs)  
(26) Has the dog resided in or travelled to South Africa?  
   Yes 
   No 
 
(27) If yes, complete one of the following (delete as appropriate) : 
a) The dog has been given one injection of imidocarb dipropionate at 7.5 mg/kg IM in the 16 days prior to 
the da te of shipment:  
Total dose: ................................................................................................................. ...........................  
Date of treatment: ................................................................... .............................................................., or  
  
b) The dog has been subjected to an IFA (indirect fluorescent antibody) or ELISA (enzyme -linked 
immunosorbent assay) test for Babesia canis with a negative result in the 16 days prior to the date of 
shipment:  
Sample collection date: ..................................................................................................... ..................., or 
  
c) The dog has been subjected to two negative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests fo r Babesia species 
or Babesia canis with negative results on samples collected 30 to 37 days apart, with the second sample 
collected in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
First sample collection date: ................................................ ...................................................................  
Second sample collection date: .............................................................................................. ................  
Leptospirosis  (dogs) (delete as appropriate)  
(28) The dog has been treated with a therapeutic dose of doxycycline for 14 consecutive days in the 30 days prior to 
the date of shipment : 
Dose rate: ............................................................................................................................. ..............................   
 
Dates of treatment:  .............................................................................. ..............................................................., or  
(29) The dog has been treated with a therapeutic dose of dihydrostreptomycin for five consecutive days in the 30 
days prior to the date of shipment : 
Dose rate: ................................. ...........................................................................................................................  
Dates of treatment:  ................................................................................................................ .............................., or  
(30) The dog has been subjected to a (MAT) microscopic agglutination test for Leptospira interrogans  serovar 
canicola  with a negative result in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment : 
Sample collection date: ............... ........................................................................................................................., 
or 
(31) The dog had a positive MAT of 1:400 or less for L. canicola  in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment and has 
been subjected to  a second MAT for L. canicola  at least 14 days after the first test and showed no increase 
above the titre of the first test : 
First sample collection date:  .................................................................................................... .............................  
Second sample collection date:  ............................................................................................................................  
 
Canine Influenza  
(32) For at least 21 days prior to shipment:  
a) The cat or d og has not been kept in a place where there were cats or dogs showing clinical signs of 
infectious respiratory disease; and  
b) The cat or dog has not shown clinical signs of infectious respiratory disease.  
 Examination  
(33) In the two days prior to shipment, I examined the animal( s) and found it/them to be free from:  
a) Clinical signs of infectious or contagious diseases.  
b) External parasites.  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  22 of 30 
 
 
 c) (Only for a dog that is not castrated or spayed) any visible signs of canine transmissible venereal tumour 
on examination of external genitalia (which includes examination of the extruded penis).  
(34) The container in which the animal is to be transported meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA)  
standards and is clean, d ry, and free of pests.  
 
Note: Government veterinary signature and stamp to be applied to all pages (including laboratory reports).  
Model Veterinary Certificate B  for cats and dogs from countries or territories recognised as rabies free must also 
be complet ed. 
 
Veterinarian registered to practice  
Name:  
Address:  
Email:   
Signature:   
Date:  
    
  
Official Veterinarian signature, 
Official stamp and date  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  23 of 30 
 
 
 6.5 Category 2: Model Veterinary Certificate B - Cats and D ogs from 
Countries or Territories Recognised as Rabies F ree 
Country:  NZ Import Permit  number:  
I .......................................................................... an official government veterinarian of ....................................................... 
(country or territory) , certif y after due enquiry, in regards to the animal identified in the attached veterinary certificate that:  
 
 
(1) The cat or dog was inspected in the two days prior to travel and i s:  
(a) Healthy and fit to travel.  
(b) Free from external parasites.  
(c) Free from clinical signs of infectious disease.  
(d) (Only for a dog that is not castrated or spayed) free from any visible signs of canine transmissible venereal 
tumour on examination of external gen italia (which includes examination of the extruded penis).  
(2) All tests were conducted at a government laboratory or a laboratory approved by the official government veterinary 
authority of this country, and the results are stamped and attached to this certif icate.  
 
(3) In the 12 months prior to export there have been no cases of rabies repor ted in the country of residence.  
 
(4) All the required documents were examined and correctly completed in accordance with New Zealand import health 
standard requirements.  
 
(5) The microchip number was confirmed as  .............................................................................. and is recorded on all 
vaccination and treatment records, laboratory results, and certification.  
 
(6) The animal was placed in a  container that meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA)  standards. The 
container is clean, dry, and free of pests, and was fastened with an official seal bearing the number or mark:  
......................................................... ...........................................................................................................................  
 
 
Note:  If seal is broken before arrival in New Zealand the container must be resealed securely by an authorised 
government official . The new seal number must be recorded below and endorsed by an authorised government 
official:  ............................................................................................................................. ................................... ........  
 
Note: Government veterinary signature and stamp to be applied to all pages (including laboratory reports).  
Official Government Veterinarian  
Name:  
Address:  
Email:  
  
Signature:   
Date:  
    
 
  
Official Veterinarian signature, 
Official stamp and date Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  24 of 30 
 
 
 6.6 Category 3: Model Veterinary Certificate A - Cats and D ogs from 
Specified Countries or T erritories where Rabies is Absent or Well 
Controlled  
(1) Each page of Veterinary Certificate A and B must be signed and stamped.  
 
Country:  NZ Import Permit  number:  
I, .............................................................................  an official government veterinarian or a veterinarian authorised 
to provide export certification on behalf of the government veterinary service of ................................................... 
(country or territory) certify the following:  
 
Species ( cat or dog)  Breed  Microchip number  Name  Sex Neutered 
or entire  Age 
       
       
       
       
       
Origin of animals  
(1) Name and address of owner/exporter: ........................................................................................................................  
............................................................................................................................. .......... ..............................................  
(2) Country or territory of origin: ............................................................................................. ..........................................  
(3) Port of departure: ...................... ............................................................................................................................. ..... 
Destination of animals  
(4) Name and address of importer (consignee) in New Zealand: ....................................................................................  
............................................................................................................................. .............................................. ..........  
(5) Means of transport: ......................................................................................................... ...........................................  
(6) Port of arrival: ........................................................... ..................................................................................................  
Specified requirements  
(7) I have scanned and confirmed the microchip number above.  
(8) The microchip number is recorded on all vaccination and treatment records, la boratory results and certification.  
(9) After due enquiry and inspection, I am satisfied that the cat or dog:  
(a) Will be more than 9 months  of age at the date of shipment . 
(b) Will not be more than 42 days p regnant at the date of shipment.  
(c) Has resided continuously in   ..................................................................... (country of export) for the six 
months immediately preceding export.  
(d) Is not a dog that belongs wholly or predominantly to any of th e following dog breeds or types:  
(i) Breeds:  
1. Brazilian Fi la 
2. Dogo Argentino  
3. Japanese Tosa  
4. Perro de Presa Canario  
(ii) Type:  
1. American Pit Bull Terrier  
(e) Is not a hybrid (crossed with another species), with the exception of Bengal cats. Documentation of five 
generations of domestic ancestry must be provided for Bengal cats.  
Rabies vaccinations (delete as appropriate)  
(10) The cat or dog has been vaccinated against rabies with a government approved inactivated virus vaccine or 
recombinant vaccine expressin g the rabies virus glycoprotein:  
(a) In the case of a primary vaccin ation, the vaccine was given not less than six months and not more than one 
year prior to the date of shipment, when the animal w as at least three months old.  
Date of vaccination: ............................................................................ .................................................., or   
(b) If a booster vaccination, the vaccine was given not more than one year pr ior to the date of shipment .  
Note : Rabies vaccination must be kept up -to-date from date of sample collection for rabies titre test to date 
of shipment.  
Date of vaccination:  ............................................................................................................................. .    
Date of previous vaccination: ........................................... ...............................................................................  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  25 of 30 
 
 
 Note: a microchip must be implanted prior to or at the same time as the rabies vaccination and rabies titre 
test used for import.  
Rabies titre test  
(11) The cat or dog has been subj ected to a FAVN or RFFIT rabies neutralising antibody titration test (as prescribed in 
the OIE Terrestrial Manual) on a sample collected not less than three months and not more than 24 months prior 
to the date of shipment, with a result of at least 0.5 IU/ ml: 
Sample collection date: ..................................................................................................... .......................................  
Test result:  .......................................................................... ......................................................................................   
Internal parasite treatments  
(12) The cat or dog was treated by a veterinarian twice  with a product (or combination or products) registered for the 
control of nematodes and cestodes at the manufacturer’s recommended dose.  
(a) The first treatment(s) was given in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment and at least two weeks before 
the second treatment : 
First treatment date: ....................................................... ................................................................................  
Name of active ingredient(s): ............................................................................................... ..........................   
(b) The second treatment ( or course of treatment) was given in the four days prior to the date of shipment :  
Second treatment date: ...................................................................................................... ...........................  
Name of active ingre dient(s): ................................................................................................................... ......  
External parasite  treatments  
(13) The cat or dog was treated by a veterinarian twice with a topical product registered for the c ontrol of ticks and fleas 
at the manufacturer’s recommended dose and certified as free from external parasites at each treatment.  
(a) The first treatment was given in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment and at least two weeks before the 
second treatment,  and the animal was free of external parasites:  
First treatment/inspection date: ............................................................................................ .........................  
Name of active ingredient(s): ........................... .............................................................................................  
(b) The second treatment was given in the two days prior to the date of shipment and the animal was free of 
external parasites:  
Second treatment/inspection date: .... ...........................................................................................................  
Name of active ingredient(s): ............................................................................................... ...................... ...   
Heartworm treatment and testing (dogs)  
(14) Treatment (delete as appropriate) : 
(a) The dog has been treated with one of the following in the four days prior to the date of shipment (delete as 
appropriate) :  
(i) Ivermectin at 6 mcg/kg  
(ii) Milbemycin at 0.5 mg/kg  
(iii) Moxidectin at 2 -4 mcg/kg  
(iv) Selamectin at 6 mg/kg  
Date of treatment: .......................................................................................................... ............., or  
(b) The dog is up -to-date on heartworm prevention with a sustained -release injection of moxidectin:  
Date of treatment: .......................................................................................................... ................................  
Name of product: ................................................... ........................................................................................  
(15) Testing:  
(a) The dog has been subjected to a heartworm antigen ELISA (enzyme -linked immunosorbent assay) test 
with a negative result in the 30 days prior to the date of sh ipment:  
Sample collection date: ..................................................................................................... .............................  
Babesia gibsoni  tests (dogs) (delete as appropriate)  
(16) The dog has been subjected to an IFA (in direct fluorescent antibody) test or ELISA (enzyme -linked 
immunosorbent assay) test for Babesia gibsoni  with a negative result in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
Sample collection date: ........................................................... .........................................................................., or  
(17) The dog has been subjected to two PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests for Babesia  species or Babesia gibsoni  
with negative results on samples collected 30 to 37 days apart, with the second sample collected in the 16 days 
prior to the date of shipment:  
First sample collection date: .................................................................................. ...................................................  
Second sample collection date: .............................................................................................. ..................................  
Note:  Dogs diagnosed with Babesia gibsoni  are not eligible for import, regardless of treatment.  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  26 of 30 
 
 
 Brucella canis  testing (dogs) (delete as appropriate)  
(18) The dog has been subjected to a RSAT (rapid slide agglutination test) with a negative result in the 16 days prior to 
the date of shipment:  
Sample coll ection date: ................................................................................................................ ........................, or  
(a) The dog has been subjected to a TAT (tube agglutination test) with a negative result in the 16 days pr ior to 
the date of shipment:  
Sample collection date: ..................................................................................................... ........................, or  
(b) The dog has been subjected to a CPAg -AGID (cytoplasmic agar gel immunodif fusion test) with a negative 
result in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
Sample collection date: ..................................................................................................... ........................, or  
(c) The dog has had a su spicious RSAT or TAT result and has been subjected to a CPAg -AGID with a 
negative result, with the second sample collected in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
RSAT or TAT sample collection date: ................................................... ...................................................., or  
CPAg -AGID sample collection date:   
(d) The dog had a suspicious TAT result and the test was repeated in 30 to 42 days after the first test with a 
negative result, with the second sample collected in the  16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
First sample collection date: ............................................................................................... .....................            
Second sample collection date: ........................... ...................................................................................., and  
(19) For entire dogs only : After due enquiry and to the best of my knowledge, in the 44 days prior to the date of 
shipment, the dog did not naturally mate, unless to a dog  of equal Brucella canis  health status. Any artificial 
insemination was done with semen that meets the relevant New Zealand import health standard for semen.  
 
Note:  Dogs diagnosed with Brucella canis  are not eligible for import, regardless of treatment.  
Babesia canis  treatment or tests (dogs)  
(20) Has the dog resided in or travelled to South Africa?  
   Yes 
   No 
 
(21) If yes, complete one of the following (delete as appropriate) : 
(a) The dog has been given one injection of imidocarb dipropionate at 7.5 mg/kg IM in the 16 days prior to the 
date of shipment:  
Total dose: ................................................ ...........................................................................................   
Date of treatment: .......................................................................................................... ......................, or    
(b) The dog has been subjected to an IFA (indirect fluorescent antibody) or ELISA (enzyme -linked 
immunosorbent assay) test for Babesia canis with a negative result in the 16 days prior to the date of 
shipment:  
Sample collection date: .................................. ......................................................................................, or   
(c) The dog has been subjected to two negative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests for Babesia species or 
Babesia canis with negative results on samples collected 30  to 37 days apart, with the second sample 
collected in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment:  
First sample collection date: ............................................................................................... ..........................   
Seco nd sample collection date: .................................................................................................. .................  
Leptospirosis  (dogs) (delete as appropriate)  
(22) The dog has been treated with a therapeutic dose of doxycycline for 14 consecutive days in the 30 days prior to 
the date of shipment : 
Dose rate: ............................................................................................................................. ...............................    
Dates of treatment:  ............................................................................................................................. ................, or  
(23) The dog has been treated with a therapeutic dose of dihydrostreptomycin for five consecutive days in the 30 da ys 
prior to the date of shipment : 
Dose rate: .................................................................................................................. ..........................................  
Dates of treatment:  .................................. ............................................................................................................, or  
(24) The dog has been subjected to a (MAT) microscopic agglutination test for Leptospira interrogans  serovar canicola  
with a negative result in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment : 
Sample collection date: ..................................................................................................... ..................................., or  
(25) The dog had a positive MAT of 1:400 or less for L. canicola  in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment and has 
been subjected to a second MAT for L. canicola  at least 14 days after the first test and showed no increase above 
the titre of the first test : 
First sample collection date:  ...................... ...........................................................................................................  
Second sample collection date:  ..................................................................................................................... ....... 
 
 Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  27 of 30 
 
 
 Canine Influenza  
(26) For at least 21 days prior to shipment:  
(a) The cat or dog has not been kept in a place where there were cats or dogs showing clinical signs of 
infectious respiratory disease; and  
(b) The cat or dog has not shown clinical signs of infectious respiratory disease.  
 Examination  
(27) In the two days prior to shipment, I exam ined the animal(s)  and found it/them to be free from:  
(a) Clinical signs of in fectious or contagious diseases.   
(b) External parasites.  
(c) (Only for a dog that is not castrated or spayed) any visible signs of canine transmissible venereal tumour on 
examination of external genitalia (which includes examination of the extruded penis).  
(28) The container in which the animal is to be transported meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA)  
standards and is clean, dry, and free of pests.  
 
Note: Government veterinary signature and stamp to be applied to all pages (including laboratory reports).  
Model veterinary certificate  B for cats and dogs from specified countries where rabies is absent and well controlled 
must also be completed.  
 
Veterinarian registered to practice  
Name:  
Address:  
Email:   
Signature:   
Date:  
    
 
  
Official Veterinarian signature, 
Official stamp and date Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  28 of 30 
 
 
 6.7 Category 3: Model Veterinary Certificate B - Cats and Dogs from 
Specified Countries or Territories where Rabies is Absent or Well 
Controlled  
Country:   NZ Import Permit n umber:  
I, .........................................................................  an official government veterinarian of ........... ............................................ 
(country or territory) , certif y after due enquiry, in regards to the animal identified  in the attached veterinary certificate that:  
 
 
(1) The cat or dog was inspected in the two days prior to travel and is:  
(a) Healthy and fit to travel.  
(b) Free from external parasites.  
(c) Free from clinical signs of infectious disease.  
(d) (Only for a dog that is not castr ated or spayed) free from any visible signs of canine transmissible venereal 
tumour on examination of external genitalia (which includes examination of the extruded penis).  
(2) All tests were conducted at a government laboratory or a laboratory approved by the  official government veterinary 
authority of this country, and the results are stamped and attached to this certificate.  
 
(3) All the required documents were examined and correctly completed in accordance with New Zealand import health 
standard requirements.  
 
(4) The microchip number was confirmed as  .............................................................,.  and is  recorded on all 
vaccination and treatment records, laboratory results, and certification.  
 
(5) The animal was placed in a container that  meets the International Air Transport Association (IATA)  standards. The 
container was clean, dry, and free of pests, and was fastened with an official seal bearing the number or mark: 
....................................................................... ....................................................................................................  
 
Note:  If seal is broken before arrival in New Zealand the container must be resealed securely by an authorised 
government official. The new seal number mu st be recorded below and endorsed by an authorised government 
official:  ............................................................................................................................. ..................................  
 
Note: Government veteri nary signature and stamp to be applied to all pages (including laboratory reports).  
 
Official Government Veterinarian  
Name:  
Address:  
Email:  
  
Signature:   
Date:  
    
 
  
Official Veterinarian signature, 
Official stamp and date  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  29 of 30 
 
 
 Appendix 1 – Document History  
 
Date First Issued  Title Shortcode  
24 July 2013  Cats and Dogs  CATDOG.GEN  
Date of Issued A mendments  Title Shortcode  
28 November 2014  Cats and Dogs  CATDOG.GEN  
1 July 2015  Cats and Dogs  CATDOG.GEN  
1 May 2016  Cats and Dogs  CATDOG.GEN  
25 May 2017  Cats and Dogs  CATDOG.GEN  
20 October  2017  Cats and Dogs  CATDOG.GEN  
9 March 2018  Cats and Dogs  CATDOG.GEN  
6 November 2018  Cats and Dogs  CATDOG.GEN  
7 April 2021  Cats and Dogs  CATDOG.GEN  
 
  Guidance Document : Cats and Dogs   
 7 April 2021  
Ministry for Primary Industries   Page  30 of 30 
 
 
 Appendix 2 – Assistance Dog Home Quarantine Agreement  
Country:  Import permit number:  
I,............................................................, the handler of the assistance dog imported into New Zealand a nd identified 
below, declare that the conditions detailed below and the period covered by this declaration have been fully 
explaine d to me. I undertake to comply with these conditions, acknowledging that my compliance is necessary for 
my dog to be exempt from confinement in a post -arrival quarantine facility.  
Microchip number: ......................................................... ................................................  
Name: ....................................................................................................................... ..... 
Breed: ..................................................................... .......................................................  
Sex: ....................................................Date of birth: ..................................................... . 
 
(1) During the period covered by the assistance dog home quarantine:  
a) The ass istance dog will be under my direct control at all times when not confined indoors at the 
address nominated by me (below) and specified on the import permit . 
b) No other dogs or cats will be present at the nominated address, except any other assistance dog(s)  
owned by the resident(s) at the nominated address. I undertake to ensure that any such dog(s) are 
subject to the same quarantine conditions as the imported dog.  
c) No other mammalian pets or livestock will be present at the nominated address, unless specifi c 
written approval from the Manager Import and Export Animals, MPI, has been obtained.  
d) An MPI veterinary officer will make arrangements to visit the nominated address to perform the 
tests, treatments and inspections specified in the conditions of post -arrival quarantine in the IHS: 
Cats and Dogs  from the country of origin of the assistance dog.  
e) I understand that, in signing the Assisted Handler's Declaration , I agree to co -operate in this manner 
with the veterinary officer but that the veterinary officer m ay exercise powers under section 121 of 
the Biosecurity Act 1993 without my prior approval.  
(2) The period covered by this agreement shall be a minimum of 10 days, from ........................... to 
……………….  (MPI veterinary officer or inspector to complete).  
 
(3) In the event that ticks or fleas are found upon arrival, the dog will be sent to an approved transitional 
facility.  
I agree to the terms of this assistance dog home quarantine until further contact and instructions from a MPI 
veterinary office r.  
Note : if you have not been contacted by a MPI veterinary officer within one working day of arrival of the assistance 
dog, contact liveanimalsector@mpi.govt.nz . 
 
MPI Veterinary Officer or Inspector  
Name:  
Addr ess: 
Signature:  
Date:  
 Assisted Handler  
Name:  
Address of home quarantine:  
Signature:  
Date: