Guidance Document 
for the  
Cats and Dogs 
Import Health Standard 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CATDOG.GEN 
 
     
 
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry 
P.O Box 2526 Wellington 6011 New Zealand
 
Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 1 of 40 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 2 of 40 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 3 of 40 CONTENTS  
 
1. APPROVED COUNTRIES FOR CATS AND DOGS 4 
CATEGORY 1:  AUSTRALIA (includes Norfolk Island) 4 
CATEGORY 2:  COUNTRIES OR TERRITORIES RECOGNISED AS  
RABIES FREE 4  
Including PACIFIC ISLANDS 4 
CATEGORY 3:  SPECIFIED COUNTRIES OR TERRITORIES WHERE RABIES IS ABSENT OR WELL CONTROLLED 5
 
2. IMPORTER BREED DECLARATION 7 
3. MODEL VETERINARY CERTIFICATES 9 
CATEGORY 1: MODEL VETERINARY CERTIFICATE A FOR CATS AND DOGS FROM 
AUSTRALIA (INCLUDES NORFOLK ISLAND) 9  
DESTINATION OF ANIMAL/S 9 
CATEGORY 1: MODEL VETERINARY CERTIFICATE B FOR CATS AND DOGS FROM 
AUSTRALIA (INCLUDES NORFOLK ISLAND) 13  
MODEL CERTIFICATE FOR DOG SHORT STAY (10 DAYS OR LESS) IN AUSTRALIA 14
 
DESTINATION OF ANIMAL/S 15 
CATEGORY 2: MODEL VETERINARY CERTIFICATE B FOR CATS AND DOGS FROM COUNTRIES OR TERRITORIES RECOGNISED AS RABIES-FREE 21
 
CATEGORY 3: MODEL VETERINARY CERTIFICATE B FOR CATS AND  DOGS FROM SPECIFIED COUNTRIES WHERE RABIES IS ABSENT OR WELL 
CONTROLLED 28
 
4. PET EXPORTER/TRANSPORTER 29 
5. MICROCHIPS 29 
6. ARRIVAL TIMES FOR BIOSECURITY CLEARANCE FOR CATS AND DOGS  
FROM AUSTRALIA 29  
7. QUARANTINE/TRANSITIONAL FACILITIES 30 
8. PERMIT TO IMPORT 31 
9. ADVANCE NOTIFICATION OF ARRIVAL 32 
10. POST-ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR CATS & DOGS GIVEN BIOSECURITY CLEARANCE
 32 
11. ASSISTANCE DOGS 33 
ADVANCE NOTICE OF ARRIVAL 33 
ASSISTANCE DOG HOME QUARANTINE AGREEMENT 34 
12. BEDDING/CRATES 35 
13. CHARGES 35 
14. PRE-INSPECTION PRIOR TO ONWARD TR AVEL TO A TRANSITIONAL FACILITY35  
15. CUSTOMS 35 
16. DEFINITIONS 35 
17. DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS 36 
18. DOGS RETURNING TO NEW ZEALAND FROM COUNTRIES WITH CANINE HEARTWORM
 36 
19. EQUIVALENCE 37 
20. TIMELINE - See applicable Veterinary Certificates for details 37 
21. TRANSIT 39 
22. TREATMENTS 39 
23. YACHTS 39 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 4 of 40  
1 APPROVED COUNTRIES FOR CATS AND DOGS  
 
CATEGORY 1:  AUSTRALIA (includes Norfolk Island) 
 
 Permit to Import is not required. 
 No post-arrival quarantine for compliant cats & dogs arriving at specified times of 
inspection. 
 Post-arrival inspection required. 
 
CATEGORY 2:  COUNTRIES OR TERRITORIES RECOGNISED AS RABIES FREE 
 
 Permit to import required. 
 Post-arrival quarantine required (minimum 10 days). 
 Post-arrival inspection required. 
 
 Bahrain 
 Barbados  Channel Islands  Falkland Islands  Fiji 
 French Polynesia 
 Guam  Hawaii (USA)  Iceland  Japan  Mauritius  New Caledonia  Singapore 
 Taiwan 
 Vanuatu 
 
From 1 January 2012, cats and dogs from the Isle of Man, Malta, Norway, Republic of Ireland, 
Sweden, and the United Kingdom, will be required to meet Category 3 requirements in Model 
Veterinary Certificates A and B for Cats and Dogs  from Specified Countries where Rabies is 
Absent or Well Controlled.  
 
Including PACIFIC ISLANDS 
 
 Permit to Import required. 
 Post-arrival quarantine required (minimum 10 days). 
 Post-arrival inspection required. 
 
Cats and dogs from Pacific Island need to follow the requirements in the model certificate for countries or territories recognised as rabies-free. If veterinary services are not available or are limited on the island of residence, dispensation may be granted for tests and treatments to be completed in post-arrival quarantine. The requirement for official seals may be waived. Dispensation should be requested when a Permit to Import application is submitted. 
 
 American Samoa  Christmas Island  Cook Islands  Kiribati  Marshall Islands  Micronesia, Federated States 
 Nauru 
 Niue  Palau  Papua New Guinea  Pitcairn Island  Saipan  Solomon Islands  Tonga, Kingdom of  Tuvalu 
 Wallis and Futuna 
 Western Samoa 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 5 of 40 CATEGORY 3:  SPECIFIED COUNTRIES OR TERRITORIES WHERE RABIES IS 
ABSENT OR WELL CONTROLLED 
 
 Permit to Import required. 
 Post-arrival quarantine required (minimum 10 days). 
 Post-arrival inspection required 
    Antigua and Barbuda  Aruba 
 Austria 
 Argentina  Bahamas  Balearic Islands  Belgium 
 Bermuda 
 British Virgin Islands  Brunei  Bulgaria  Canada  Canary Islands 
 Cayman Islands 
 Chile  Croatia, Republic of  Cyprus   Czech Republic 
 Denmark 
 Finland  France  Germany  Gibraltar  Greece 
 Greenland 
 Hong Kong  Hungary  Italy 
Ireland, Republic of (from 1 Jan 
2012) 
 Isle of Man (from 1 Jan 2012) 
 Jamaica  Kuwait  Luxembourg  Macau  Malaysia (Peninsular, 
 Sabah & Sarawak only) 
 Malta (from 1 Jan 2012)  Monaco  Montenegro  Netherlands, The 
 Netherland Antilles  
 Norway (from 1 Jan 2012)  Poland  Portugal  Puerto Rico  Qatar 
 Reunion 
 Serbia  Seychelles  Slovakia  Slovenia, Republic of 
 South Africa 
 South Korea  Spain  St Kitts and Nevis  St Lucia  St Vincent Grenadine 
 Sweden (from 1 Jan 2012) 
 Switzerland  Trinidad and Tobago  United Arab Emirates 
United Kingdom (from 1 Jan 
2012) 
 United States of America 
 Urugua  Virgin Islands, US  Wallis and Futuna
 
 If your country is not on any of the approved lists, your pet is not eligible for direct import to 
New Zealand.  Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 6 of 40  
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. Requests will be prioritised quarterly subject to resource availability. Information provided by the government veterinary authority regarding rabies 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 Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS), as New Zealand and AQIS have a formal agreement on harmonisation of country approval for cat and dog imports. Contact animalimports@maf.govt.nz
 for further information. Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 7 of 40 2 IMPORTER BREED DECLARATION 
 
EXEMPTING STATUTORY DECLARATION BY OR  ON BEHALF OF IMPORTER OF DOG 
Section 30A, Dog Control Act 1996 
 
Section 30A(1) of the Dog Control Act 1996 (the Act) prohibits the importation into New Zealand of any 
dog that belongs wholly or predominantly to one or  more of the breeds or type of dog listed below. 
Section 30A(2) of the Act provides that no perso n may import a dog into New Zealand unless the dog 
is accompanied by evidence of New Zealand regi stration or an exempting statutory declaration 
(below).  
 
Exempting Statutory declaration 
Full name of importer or importer’s a gent:  ................................................................................ 
 
Date of Bi rth:  ............................................................................................................... .............. 
 
Home address: ................................................................................................................. ......... 
 Phone (home):  ........................................Mobile: ................................................................ ..... 
 
Name of dog: .................................................................................................................. ........... 
 
Age:   ........................................................Breed: ......................................................... ............. 
  
I,   .............................................................solemnly and sincerely de clare that to the best of my 
knowledge the dog to which this declaration relates does not belong wholly or predominantly to one or more of the following prohibited breeds or type of dogs: 
 
Breeds        
Brazilian Fila      
Dogo Argentino 
Japanese Tosa Perro de Presa Canario 
 
Type 
American Pit Bull Terrier  
I make this declaration believing it to be true and correct by virtue of the Oaths and Declarations Act 1957. 
 
Date: ......................................................................................................................... ................. 
 
 Signature of person maki ng declaration:  .................................................................................. 
 
 
Declared at [place]:  ......................................................................................................... .......... 
 
Date:  ........................................................................................................................ ................. 
 
Signature of witness:  ........................................................................................................ ........ 
 
.....................................................................................................................................................  
 
Title/occupation* of witness:   ............................................................................................... ..... 
 *Delete as appropriate 
 
(The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Biosecurity Inspectors (this includes MAF veterinarians) are 
authorised to witness statutory declarations). Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 8 of 40  
Notes 
 
1 This declaration is not required for a dog that has previously been registered in New 
Zealand. Proof that the dog has previously been registered in New Zealand could include council registration records. 
 2 A statutory declaration is a written statement declaring something to be true in the presence of an authorised witness. It is an offence to give altered, false, incomplete, or 
misleading information or to make a false statement or declaration.  
 
3 A statutory declaration can be witnessed by any of the following persons: a member of 
parliament, a lawyer, a Justice of the Peace, a registered legal executive or Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Legal Executives, a government officer authorised to take 
a statutory declaration. 
 
4 This statutory declaration must be accompanied by a veterinary certificate that is to the 
effect that to the best of the veterinarian’s knowledge and belief, the dog does not belong wholly or predominantly to any one or more of the breeds or types listed above. 
The veterinary certificate must be issued in the country from which the dog is imported, by a veterinarian registered in that country and before the arrival of the dog in New Zealand. This is covered in Veterinary Certificate B. 
 
5 You will commit an offence and be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding $3,000 if you import a dog into New Zealand that belongs wholly or predominantly to 
any one or more of the breeds or types listed above. Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 9 of 40  
3 MODEL VETERINARY CERTIFICATES 
 
CATEGORY 1: MODEL VETERINARY CE RTIFICATE A FOR CATS AND DOGS 
FROM AUSTRALIA (INCLUDES NORFOLK ISLAND) 
 
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: 
 
IDENTIFICATION OF ANIMAL/S 
 
Microchip 
Number Name Breed 
Description Sex Neutered 
or Entire Age 
        
 
ORIGIN OF ANIMAL/S 
Name and current address of owner/exporter: ............................................................  
.....................................................................................................................................  
  
Country/territory of origin of animal/s:  ........................................................................  Port of departure: ........................................................................................................  
 
DESTINATION OF ANIMAL/S 
Name and address of importer/consignee in New Zealand: .......................................  
.....................................................................................................................................  
  
Means of transport:  ....................................................................................................  Port of arrival:  .............................................................................................................  
 
1  I have scanned and confirmed the microchip number above. 
 2 The microchip number is recorded on all vaccination and treatment records, laboratory 
results and certification. 
 
3  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 and is weaned and fit 
for travel; 
 b. will not be more than 42 days pregnant at the date of shipment;  c. has not been under any quarantine restriction immediately prior to shipment; 
 
d. is not a dog that belongs wholly or predominantly to any of the following dog breeds 
or types: 
 
B r e e d s       T y p e  
Brazilian Fila     American Pit Bull Terrier 
Dogo Argentino Japanese Tosa Perro de Presa Canario 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 10 of 40 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. 
 
4 INTERNAL PARASITE TREATMENTS  
 
The cat or dog was treated 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):  ...........................................................................  
 
 
5 EXTERNAL PARASITE TREATMENTS  
 
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 at 
least two weeks before the second treatment, and the animal was free of external parasites. 
 
  Second treatment/inspection date:  .................................................................    Name of active ingredient(s):   .........................................................................  
 
6 HEARTWORM TREATMENT AND TESTING (DOGS) 
 
TREATMENT  
 
 EITHER 
a. The dog has been treated with one of the following in the four days prior to the date 
of shipment*:  
 
 Ivermectin at 6 mcg/kg 
 Milbemycin at 0.5 mg/kg 
 Moxidectin at 2-4 mcg/kg 
 Selamectin at 6 mg/kg 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 11 of 40       SELECT OPTION 
 
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: ..............................................................................................     
            * Delete as appropriate 
 
 AND 
 
       TESTING  (Dogs six months of age or older on the date of shipment)  
 
c. 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:   ................................................................................  
 
* Delete as appropriate 
 
Note: Dispensation for the heartworm test will be given to New Zealand dogs in Australia for 
less than two months if the dog is accom panied by the New Zealand export certificate. 
 
 
7 BABESIA GIBSONI  TEST(S) (DOGS)  
 
EITHER  
 
a. 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 
 
b. 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:   ................................................................               
  
* Delete as appropriate 
 
    Note: Dogs diagnosed with Babesia gibsoni  are not eligible for import, regardless 
of treatment. 
 
 
8 In the two days prior to shipment, I exam ined the animal/s and found it/them to be free 
from: 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 12 of 40  clinical signs of infectious or contagious diseases,  
 external parasites, and  
 (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). 
 
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. 
 
  
 
 
................................................................................................................................................................................................. 
Veterinarian registered to practise in Australia 
 
................................................................................................................................................................................................. 
Name and address 
 
................................................................................................................................................................................................. 
Date 
 
Note: Government veterinary signature and stamp to be applied to all pages (including 
laboratory reports). 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 13 of 40  
CATEGORY 1: MODEL VETERINARY CE RTIFICATE B FOR CATS AND DOGS 
FROM AUSTRALIA (INCLUDES NORFOLK ISLAND) 
 
I,   ......................................................   an AQIS official veterinarian, certify after due enquiry, 
in regards to the animal identified in the attached veterinary certificate that: 
  
1 In the 12 months prior to the date 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 Leptospira interrogans serovar canicola  reported in 
Australia. 
 
3 The cat or dog was inspected in the two days prior to travel and is  
 
 Healthy and fit to travel 
 Free from external parasites 
 Free from clinical signs of infectious disease, and 
 (only for a dog that is not 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 an AQIS, or AQIS-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 microchip 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.   
 
......................................................................................................................................................................................... 
Signature of Official Veterinarian, Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service  
 
......................................................................................................................................................................................... 
 
......................................................................................................................................................................................... 
Printed name and address  
......................................................................................................................................................................................... 
Date and stampGuidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 14 of 40 MODEL CERTIFICATE FOR DOG SHORT STAY (10 DAYS OR LESS) IN 
AUSTRALIA 
 
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.  
 
This “Short Stay” certificate must be completed by a veterinarian in New Zealand, presented to the 
veterinarian in Australia, and accompany the dog on return to New Zealand along with Veterinary 
Certificate A and B for Cats and Dogs from Austra lia. It is highly recommended that the requirements 
in this certificate are carefully followed to prevent  a delay in shipment from Australia or quarantine 
upon arrival in New Zealand.  
 
Your dog still requires an export certificate from New Zealand to Australia. 
 
Dates of tr avel:  ............................................................................................................. ............. 
Owner/Importer  name:  .............................................................................................................. 
New Zealand A ddress:  ......................................................................................................... .... 
  
Breed:   ...................................................................................................................... ................ 
Microchip:  ................................................................................................................... ............... 
 Dispensation for Babesia gibsoni  testing will be given for dogs that have been treated for ticks as 
below. Dispensation will also be given from the first internal parasite treatm ent. Heartworm testing is 
not required for dogs that have been in Australia for less than two months.    
All other conditions of Veterinary Certificate A and B for Cats and Dogs from Australia must be 
completed and these must travel with your dog.  
 
 
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 manufacturer’s 
recommended dose. 
 
I, ................................................................being a regi stered veterinarian in New Zealand have treated this dog with 
a product(s) registered for the control of ticks and fleas in dogs, in the 4 days prior to the scheduled time and date of 
departure to Australia.   
 
Signed ........................................................................................................................ ...................................                                                   
Date of external parasite treatment............................................................................................ ....................  
Name of active ingredient(s)................................................................................................... .......................  
 
 
Some ticks in Australia can spread serious disease a nd 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.   
 
The dog will be examined for ticks and fleas on arrival in New Zealand. 
 
For further enquiries, contact: 
 
Animal Imports 
Phone: 0800 008 333 (in NZ) or +64 4 894 0100 (outside NZ) 
FAX: + 64 4 894 0733 
animalimports@maf.govt.nz  Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 15 of 40 CATEGORY 2: MODEL VETERINARY CERTIF ICATE A FOR CATS AND DOGS FROM 
COUNTRIES OR TERRITORIES RECOGNISED AS RABIES-FREE  
 
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: 
 
IDENTIFICATION OF ANIMAL/S 
 
Microchip 
Number Name Breed 
Description Sex Neutered or 
Entire Age 
 
 
 
      
 
ORIGIN OF ANIMAL/S 
Name and current address of owner/exporter: ............................................................  
............................................................................................................................... .....   
  
Country/territory of origin of animal/s:  ........................................................................  Port of departure: ........................................................................................................  
 
DESTINATION OF ANIMAL/S 
Name and address of importer/consignee in New Zealand: .......................................  
.....................................................................................................................................  
  
Means of transport:  ....................................................................................................  Port of arrival:  .............................................................................................................  
  
 
1 I have scanned and confirmed the microchip number above.  
 2 The microchip number is recorded on all treatment and vaccination records, laboratory 
results, and certification. 
 
3 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 ……………………………….. (country 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: 
 
Breeds       Type  
Brazilian Fila     American Pit Bull Terrier 
Dogo Argentino 
Japanese Tosa Perro de Presa Canario 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 16 of 40 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.  
 
4 INTERNAL PARASITE TREATMENTS 
 
The cat or dog was treated 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): ...........................................................................  
 
5 EXTERNAL PARASITE TREATMENTS 
 
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):  ............................................................................  
 
6 HEARTWORM TREATMENT AND TESTING (DOGS) 
 
TREATMENT  
 
EITHER 
 
a. The dog has been treated with one of the following in the four days prior to the date 
of shipment*:  
 
 Ivermectin at 6 mcg/kg 
 Milbemycin at 0.5 mg/kg 
 Moxidectin at 2-4 mcg/kg 
 Selamectin at 6 mg/kg 
  
      Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 17 of 40 SELECT ONE 
 
  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:  ..............................................................................................   * 
Delete as appropriate     
 
AND 
 
TESTING  (Dogs six months of age or older on the date of shipment)  
 
c. 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: ......................................................................................  
 
* Delete as appropriate   
 
7 BABESIA GIBSONI  TEST(S) (DOGS)  
 
EITHER 
 
a. 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 
 
b. 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:   .....................................................................  
  
* Delete as appropriate  
 
Note: Dogs diagnosed with Babesia gibsoni  are not eligible for import, regardless of 
treatment . 
 
8 BRUCELLA CANIS  TESTING (DOGS) 
 
EITHER 
 
a. 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*; Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 18 of 40  
      Sample collection date:  ...................................................................................   
 
OR 
 
b. The dog has been subjected to a TAT (tube agglutination test) 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 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 
 
d. The dog has had a suspicious 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:  ..............................................................  
CPAg-AGID sample collection date:  ................................................................  
  
OR 
 
e. 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 
 
f. 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*. 
 
                           * Delete as appropriate 
 
NOTE: Dogs diagnosed with Brucella canis  are not eligible for import, regardless of 
treatment. 
 
 
9 BABESIA CANIS  TREATMENT OR TEST(S)  (DOGS that have ever resided in or 
travelled to South Africa) 
 
EITHER 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 19 of 40 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:  .............................................................................  
          Second sample collection date:  .......................................................................  
   
* Delete as appropriate 
 
10 LEPTOSPIROSIS (DOGS) 
 
EITHER 
 
a. 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 
 
b. 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 
 
c. 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 
 
d. 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 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 20 of 40 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:  .......................................................................  
        
* Delete as appropriate 
 
11 EXAMINATION 
 
In the two days prior to shipment, I examined the animal/s and found it/them to be free from: 
 
 clinical signs of infectious or contagious diseases,  
 external parasites, and  
 (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). 
 
 
...................................................................................................................................  
             Signature of Veterinarian  
 
...................................................................................................................................  
            Printed name and address  
 
...................................................................................................................................  
            Date  
 
Note: Government veterinary signature and stamp to be applied to all pages (including 
laboratory reports). 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 21 of 40 CATEGORY 2:  MODEL VETERINARY CERTIFICATE B FOR CATS AND DOGS 
FROM COUNTRIES OR TERRITORIES RECOGNISED AS RABIES-FREE 
 
I,   ......................................................  an official government veterinarian of  
........................................................... (country or territory), certify, 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  
 
 Healthy and fit to travel 
 Free from external parasites 
 Free from clinical signs of infectious disease, and  
 (only for a dog that is not 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). 
 
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 In the 12 months prior to export there have been no cases of rabies reported in the country of 
residence. 
 
4 All the required documents were examined and co rrectly 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: 
 
 
................................................................................................................................................................................................. 
Signature of Official Government Veterinarian 
 
 
................................................................................................................................................................................................. 
Printed name and address of Official Government Veterinarian  
 
................................................................................................................................................................................................. 
Date and stamp 
    
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:  
......................................................................................................................................................  Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 22 of 40 CATEGORY 3: MODEL VETERINARY CERTIF ICATE A FOR CATS AND DOGS FROM 
SPECIFIED COUNTRIES WHERE RABIES  IS ABSENT OR WELL CONTROLLED  
 
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: 
 
IDENTIFICATION OF ANIMAL/S 
 
Microchip 
Number Name Breed 
Description Sex Neutered 
or Entire Age 
         
 
ORIGIN OF ANIMAL/S 
Name and address of owner/exporter:  .......................................................................  
  Country/territory of origin of animal/s:  ........................................................................  Port of departure:  .......................................................................................................  
 
DESTINATION OF ANIMAL/S 
Name and address of importer/consignee in New Zealand:    
  Means of transport:  ....................................................................................................  
Port of arrival:  .............................................................................................................  
 
1 I have scanned and confirmed the microchip number above. 
 2 The microchip number is recorded on all vaccination and treatment records, laboratory 
results, and certification. 
 3 After due enquiry and inspection, I am satisfied that the cat or dog: 
 
a. will be more than nine months 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 ……………………………….. (country 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: 
 
 Breeds      Type  
Brazilian Fila     American Pit Bull Terrier 
Dogo Argentino 
Japanese Tosa 
Perro de Presa Canario 
 
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. 
 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 23 of 40 4 RABIES VACCINATION(S)  
 
The cat or dog has been vaccinated against rabies with a government approved inactivated 
virus vaccine or recombinant vaccine expressing the rabies virus glycoprotein; 
 
a. In the case of a primary vaccination, the vaccine was given not less than six months 
and not more than one year prior to the date of shipment, when the animal was at least three months old*
1, 2; 
 
     Date of vaccination:  ..........................................................................................  
 
OR 
 
b. If a booster vaccination, the vaccine was given not more than one year prior to the 
date of shipment*1, 2. (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:  ...........................................................................  
 
            *1 Delete as appropriate. 
  *2 A microchip must be implanted prior to or at the same ti me as the rabies vaccination and rabies titre test used for 
import. 
 
5 RABIES TITRE TEST  
 
The cat or dog has been subjected 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:  .......................................................................................................  
 
6 INTERNAL PARASITE TREATMENTS  
 
The cat or dog was treated 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 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 for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 24 of 40  
7 EXTERNAL PARASITE TREATMENTS  
 
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): .............................................................................  
 
 
8 HEARTWORM TREATMENT AND TESTING (DOGS ) 
 
TREATMENT  
 
EITHER 
 
a. The dog has been treated with one of the following in the four days prior to the date 
of shipment*:  
 
 Ivermectin at 6 mcg/kg 
 Milbemycin at 0.5 mg/kg 
 Moxidectin at 2-4 mcg/kg 
 Selamectin at 6 mg/kg 
 
SELECT ONE 
 
     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:  ..............................................................................................  
      * Delete as appropriate 
 
 AND  TESTING
  
 
c. 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:  ...................................................................................  
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 25 of 40  
9 BABESIA GIBSONI  TEST(S) (DOGS) 
 
a. 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 
 
b. 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:   .......................................................................  
             
* Delete as appropriate 
 
Note: Dogs diagnosed with Babesia gibsoni  are not eligible for import, regardless of 
treatment. 
 
 
10 BRUCELLA CANIS  TESTING (DOGS ) 
 
EITHER 
 
a. The dog has been subjected to a rapid slide agglutination test (RSAT) with a 
negative result in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment*; 
 
      Sample collection date: ....................................................................................  
 
OR 
 
b. The dog has been subjected to a tube agglutination test (TAT) 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 a cytoplasmic agar gel immunodiffusion test (CPAg-
AGID) with a negative result in the 16 days prior to the date of shipment*. 
 
       Sample collection date:  ..................................................................................  
 
OR 
 
d. The dog has had a suspicious 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:  .............................................................  
      CPAg-AGID sample collection date:  ................................................................  Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 26 of 40  
OR 
 
e. 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:  .......................................................................  
 
* Delete as appropriate 
 
 AND 
 
f. 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*. 
               
* Delete as appropriate  
 NOTE: Dogs diagnosed with Brucella canis  are not eligible for import, regardless of 
treatment
. 
 
 
11 BABESIA CANIS  TREATMENT OR TEST(S) (DOGS that have ever resided in or 
travelled to South Africa) 
 
EITHER 
 
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) test 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 37days apart, with the second sample collected in the 16 days prior to the date of 
shipment*. 
 
      First sample collection date:  ............................................................................  
      Second sample collection date:  .......................................................................  
     
   * Delete as appropriate Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 27 of 40   
12 LEPTOSPIROSIS  TREATMENT OR TESTING (DOGS) 
 
EITHER 
 
a. The dog has been treated with doxycycline at a therapeutic dose rate for 14 
consecutive days in the 30 days prior to the date of shipment*; 
 
      Dose rate:  ........................................................................................................  
      Dates of treatment:  ..........................................................................................  
 
OR 
 
b. 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 
 
c. The dog has been subjected to a microscopic agglutination test (MAT) for 
Leptospira  interrogans  serovar canicola  with a negative result in the 30 days prior to 
the date of shipment*; 
 
      Sample collection date:  ...................................................................................  
 
OR 
 
d. 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:  .......................................................................  
           
* Delete as appropriate 
 
13 EXAMINATION 
 
In the two days prior to shipment, I exam ined the animal/s and found it/them to be free 
from: 
 clinical signs of infectious or contagious diseases,  
 external parasites, and  
 (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). 
...................................................................................................................................  
             Signature of Veterinarian  
...................................................................................................................................  
            Printed name and address  
...................................................................................................................................  
            Date:  
 Note: Government veterinary signature and stamp to be applied to all pages (includi ng laboratory reports).Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 28 of 40  
CATEGORY 3: MODEL VETERINARY CE RTIFICATE B FOR CATS AND DOGS 
FROM SPECIFIED COUNTRIES WHERE RABIES IS ABSENT OR WELL 
CONTROLLED 
 
I,   ......................................................  an official government veterinarian of  
........................................................... (country or territory), certify, 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:  
 
 Healthy and fit to travel 
 Free of external parasites 
 Free of clinical signs of infectious disease, and 
 (only for a dog that is not castrated or spayed) free of any visible signs of canine transmissible venereal tumour on examination of external genitalia (which includes 
examination of protruded 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 co rrectly 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:  
 
 
 
 
................................................................................................................................................................................................. 
Signature of Official Government Veterinarian 
 
................................................................................................................................................................................................. 
Printed name and address of Official Government Veterinarian 
 
    
................................................................................................................................................................................................. 
Date and stamp 
 
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:  
 
...................................................................................................................................................  4 PET EXPORTER/TRANSPORTER 
MAF highly recommends the use of a pet exporter/transporter. 
 
5 MICROCHIPS 
Each animal must be fitted with a microchip for identification. ISO (International Standards 
Organisation) Standard microchips meeting specifications 11784 or Annex A of ISO Standard 
11785 are generally used (and are required for dog registration in New Zealand).  
 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.  Microchips must be scanned and the number recorded each time a rabies vaccination, test, treatment, examination or inspection is done.  
 
6 ARRIVAL TIMES FOR BIOSECURIT Y CLEARANCE FOR CATS AND 
DOGS FROM AUSTRALIA 
 
Biosecurity clearance will require inspection by an Official Veterinarian. Provided advance 
notification of arrival has been given at least 72 hours ahead of the scheduled time of arrival, and 
the time of arrival falls within the following times, biosecurity clearance for compliant animals will be given at the border. 
 
 
Until further notice, the restricted clearance times for cats and dogs from Australia 
to Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland are between 5.30 am and 6.30 pm on 
week days .   
 
 
 
 
Auckland 
0530 to 1830 hours (weekdays only)  Christchurch 
1200 to 1800 hours (weekdays only) 
 Wellington 1330 to 1630 hours (weekdays only)  
Please allow at least two hours from the time the flight arrives for the inspection and biosecurity 
clearance.  If a cat or dog arrives outside these hours, or arrives on a public holiday, or is not compliant with the requirements, or advance notification has not been given, it will be sent to an approved 
quarantine facility and must remain there until biosecurity clearance is given (within 72 hours). 
 
The only exception will be for assistance dogs that meet the requirements in Appendix 1 of the Import Health Standard. Special arrangements can be made for veterinary inspection of assistance dogs, provided at least 72 hours advance notification is given. See notification contact details in Assistance Dog section. 
Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 29 of 40 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 30 of 40 7 QUARANTINE/TRANSITIONAL FACILITIES 
 
FOR BOTH CATS AND DOGS: Qualified Pet Services  150 Airfield Road Takanini 
Auckland 
Proprietors: Vicky and John Lee Ph +64 9 299 9539 Fax +64 9 299 9539 E-mail services@qualifiedpet.co.nz 
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 
PO Box 23158  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 Shado-Lans Quarantine Facility 
773 State Highway One RD 31 Levin 
New Zealand 
Proprietors: Denise and John Clark Ph +64 6 362 6184 Fax +64 6 362 6185 Email: shado-lans@xtra.co.nz  
Website www.shado-lans.co.nz 
 FOR CATS 
ONLY: 
 Pussy Cat Lodge 29 Crowther Street 
Avondale 
Auckland New Zealand Proprietor: Gary Burch Ph +64 9 828 3410 
Fax +64 9 828 0455 
E-mail trovan@xtra.co.nz 
Website www.pussycatlodge.com 
 
 
These are private facilities run by MAF- approved operators and supervised by MAF 
veterinarians. Each operator sets their own schedule of charges, visiting hours, etc. Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 31 of 40 Vaccinations required for cats and dogs entering quarantine 
 
Cats: feline panleukopenia (enteritis), feline rhinotracheitis and feline calicivirus. 
 Dogs: canine distemper, infectious canine hepat itis, canine parvovirus, canine parainfluenza 
and Bordetella bronchiseptica  (kennel cough). 
Some facilities may also require vaccination for leptospirosis. 
 
8 PERMIT TO IMPORT 
 
A permit  is required for the importation of dogs and cats from all countries except Australia.  
 Please allo
w a minimum of 10 working days for permit processing once all required 
documents have been received. Copies are acceptable. These documents include: 
 
 A completed and signed permit application form 
 Booking for an approved transitional (quarantine) facility 
 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. 
 Confirmation of date of microchip implantation.  
 
Permits will be sent to you electronically. 
 
Submit applications by email, post or fax to:   
animalimports@maf.govt.nz  
 
MAF Animal Imports 
PO Box 2526  Wellington 6140 New Zealand  
Fax:   +64 4 894 0733 
 
Phone:  +64 4 894 0100 from overseas  
Or:   0800 008 333 in New Zealand  
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 32 of 40  
9 ADVANCE NOTIFICA TION OF ARRIVAL 
 
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand must be notified at least 72 hours before the scheduled time 
of arrival of any animal, including: 
 
 flight/ship number 
 date and time of arrival 
 consignee’s name and contact details 
 species and breed 
 number of animals in consignment 
 country of origin 
 quarantine facility booked (if applicable) 
 bill of lading (if known) and 
 whether importer/agent is on board same flight 
 
Please use the following email address or phone number depending on the intended port 
of arrival of the animal: 
Auckland  
mqsakac@maf.govt.nz    
00 64 9 909 8631 
 Christchurch  
mqschc@maf.govt.nz  
00 64 3 943 3803  
 
Wellington 
mqswlg@maf.govt.nz  
00 64 4 894 4213  
 
10 POST-ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS  FOR CATS & DOGS GIVEN 
BIOSECURITY CLEARANCE 
 
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: 
 
 The animal should be taken to a veterinarian. 
 The veterinarian should be informed of the animal’s import history.  
 The Investigation & Diagnostic Centre (IDC) must be notified of any suspected exotic disease or pest by calling 0800 80 99 66. 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 33 of 40  
11 ASSISTANCE DOGS 
 
ADVANCE NOTICE OF ARRIVAL 
 
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand at the first port of arrival must be notified at least 72 hours 
before the scheduled time of arrival of any animal. 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 ports: 
 
Auckland  mqsakav@maf.govt.nz  
    Ph: 09 909 2706 
    Fax: 09 909 2708 
 Wellington  wellingtoncertification@maf.govt.nz
 
    Ph: 04 577 9453     Fax: 04 894 4201 
 
Christchurch  liveanimalgroup@maf.govt.nz   
   
    Ph: 03 943 1777 
    Fax: 03 943 1742 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 34 of 40 ASSISTANCE DOG HOME QUARANTINE AGREEMENT 
 
I,................ .................. ................... ......., the handler of the assistance  dog imported into New Zealand and  
identified below, declare that the conditions detail ed below and the period covered by this declaration 
have been fully explained 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: ...................................................... Permit to Import number: ............................................................................................... 
  
During the period covered by the Assistance Dog Home Quarantine: 
 
1.  The assistance dog will be under my direct contro l at all times when not confined indoors at the 
address nominated by me (below) and specified on the Permit to Import. 
 2.  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 en sure that any such dog(s) are 
subject to the same quarantine conditions as the imported dog.   
3.  No other mammalian pets or livestock will be present at the nominated address, unless s pecific written 
approval from the Biosecurity Standards Group Manager, MAF, has been obtained. 
 4.  A MAF veterinary officer will make arrangements to  visit the nominated address to perform the tests, 
treatments and inspections specified in the conditio ns of post-arrival quarantine in the import health 
standard for the importation of dogs into New Zealand from the country of origin  of the assistance dog. 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 offi cer may exercise powers under section 121 of the 
Biosecurity Act 1993 without my prior approval.  
 
The period covered by this agreement shall be: 
 
A minimum of 10 days, from ........... ................ to ……………….  (MAF veterinary officer or inspector to 
complete) 
 
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 MAF veterinary officer. Note: if you have not been contacted by a MAF veterinary officer within one 
working day, contact liveanimalsector@maf.govt.nz
. 
  
 
.......................................................................................................................................... 
Signature of the assisted handler       Date   
.......................................................................................................................................... 
Address of home quarantine  
.......................................................................................................................................... 
Signature of MAF veterinary officer or inspector    Date 
 
 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 35 of 40 12 BEDDING/CRATES 
 
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.  The container must comply with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations and be free of dirt and pests. Contact your pet exporter or see IATA cage 
regulations  for cats and dogs. 
 
13 CHARGES 
 
All costs associated with importing a cat or dog are the responsibility of the importer. This includes but is not exclusive to: inspec tion, testing, treatment, and transport.  
 
Biosecurity clearance: A fee will apply for the inspection and certification. Any additional 
costs must also be paid by the importer (e.g. destruction of any bedding/toys/garments, 
quarantine for non-compliant animals). For further information contact the port of arrival (contacts listed under Advance Notification of Arrival).   
 
14 PRE-INSPECTION PRIOR TO  ONWARD TRAVEL TO A 
TRANSITIONAL FACILITY 
 
An external parasite inspection will be carried out on uncleared cats and dogs prior to 
travel by air to transitional facilities outside Auckland. 
 
15 CUSTOMS 
 
Imported cats and dogs may be subject to Customs  charges. 
 
16 DEFINITIONS 
 
ASSISTANCE DOGS 
Assistance dogs are highly trained dogs for the purpose of assisting persons with a disability in the course of their daily lives. These dogs are trained and certified by 
recognised and accredited national and/or international organisations.  
 
ASSISTED HANDLER Disabled person matched with an assistance dog for the purpose of being assisted in the course of their daily life.   
INSPECTOR 
A person who is appointed an inspector under section 103 of the Biosecurity Act 1993 to administer and enforce the provisions of the Biosecurity Act and controls imposed under the Hazardous Substances and New Organism Act 1996.   MAF 
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry 
 OFFICIAL VETERINARIAN A veterinarian authorised by the Veterinary Administration of the country to perform official tasks associated with animal health and/or public health and inspections of commodities 
and, when appropriate, to certify in conformity with the provisions of the Section 5.2  of the 
Terrestrial Code  pertaining to principles of certification. Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 36 of 40  
OIE CODE 
Refers to the World Organisation for Animal Health Terrestrial Animal Health Code. Any 
reference in this standard to the OIE Code is to the most current as found on the OIE website: 
http://www.oie.int/eng/normes/en_mcode.htm  
 TRANSITIONAL FACILITY 
A place approved as a transitional facility in accordance with section 39 of the Biosecurity Act 
1993 for the purpose of inspection, testing, storage, treatment, holding or destruction of uncleared goods; or a part of a port declared to be a transitional facility in accordance with section 39 of the Biosecurity Act 1993.  
VETERINARY AUTHORITY 
The governmental authority of an OIE Member, comprising veterinarians, other professionals and para-professionals, having the responsibilit y and competence for ensuring or supervising 
the implementation of animal health and welfare measures, international veterinary certification and other standards and recommendations in the Terrestrial Code in the whole territory. 
 
17 DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS 
 
The cat or dog must be accompanied by the following documentation and the conditions 
of that documentation must be met:  
 Permit to Import (electronic copy acceptable), all countries except Australia 
 original veterinary certificates (or original Veterinary Certificate B with a certified 
copy of Veterinary Certificate A) - model certificates in guidance document; 
 required test results (original or certified copies); 
 importer dog breed declaration 
 
The documentation must be: 
 original, unless otherwise specified; 
 attached securely to the shipping container;  
 in English or have an English translation; 
 clear and legible; and 
 identified with the animal’s microchip number. 
 
All required laboratory testing must be conducted at a laboratory approved by the 
veterinary authority of the exporting country to conduct export testing. 
 
 
18 DOGS RETURNING TO NEW ZE ALAND FROM COUNTRIES WITH 
CANINE HEARTWORM 
 
Recommendations for dogs imported from countries where heartworm ( Dirofilaria immitis ) 
is present:   
 
1 The dog should be tested for heartworm seven months after importation to New 
Zealand.   
 2 Dogs travelling in countries where hear tworm is present should be on preventive 
treatment according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. 
 
 
  Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 37 of 40 19 EQUIVALENCE 
 
The import health standard has been agreed as suitable for trade between the exporting 
and the importing countries. It is expected that the consignment will meet the conditions in every respect. 
 
Occasionally it may be found that, due to circumstances beyond the control of the importer or exporter, a consignment does not comp ly with the specific requirements in this 
import health standard, but may meet the outcomes sought. In such cases, a Permit to 
Import application may be made, equivalence granted and a Permit to Import issued at the discretion of MAF Biosecurity New Zealand. This must be done prior to shipment. The following information must be forwarded by the certifying government's veterinary 
authority for an equivalence to be considered:  
 
1 Which clause/s of the import health standard cannot be met and how this has occurred;  
 
2 The reason the consignment is considered to be of an "equivalent health" status;  
 
3 The reasons why the veterinary authority of the country of origin believes this 
proposal should be acceptable to the New Zealand Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and their recommendation for its acceptance.  
 
Requests for equivalence should be sent to animalimports@maf.govt.nz  
 
20 TIMELINE - See applicable V eterinary Certificates for details 
 
Preparing your cat or dog to come to New Zealand 
 
Determine if your pet is eligible for import by  checking if the country of export is listed as 
an approved country in the Guidance Document. Also read the eligibility section. 
 
 
Step 
  
What has to be done   
 
When  
1. Get an approved 
Microchip For cats & 
dogs from all 
approved 
countries Must be implanted before initiating any vaccinations, tests and treatments. The 
microchip must be scanned and the 
number recorded on all vaccination and treatment records, tests and certification. 
2. Rabies vaccination For cats & 
dogs from 
countries or 
territories where rabies is absent or 
well-
controlled A primary vaccination given not less than six months and one year prior to shipment 
OR 
A booster vaccination not more than one year prior to shipment  
3. Rabies titre test 
 For cats & dogs from countries or territories where rabies 
is absent or 
well-controlled  Not less than three months and not more than 24 months prior to shipment  Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 38 of 40 4.  Make reservation at 
quarantine facility 
  
Apply for an import 
permit  For cats & dogs from all approved 
countries 
except Australia At least six weeks before shipment   
First external parasite treatment   
 For cats & 
dogs from all approved 
countries In the 30 days prior to the date of 
shipment and at least two weeks prior to the second treatment 
 
First internal 
parasite treatment 
 For cats & 
dogs from all 
approved 
countries In the 30 days prior to the date of shipment and at least two weeks prior to 
the second treatment 
 
Heartworm test  For dogs 
from all approved countries  In the 30 days prior to shipment 
 5. 
Leptospirosis test 
or treatment   For dogs from all approved 
countries 
except Australia  In the 30 days prior to shipment  
Babesia gibsoni test(s)
  
 
 
   For dogs from all approved 
countries 
  IFA or ELISA test in the 16 days prior to shipment OR 
PCR tests on samples collected 30 to 37 
days apart with the second sample collected in the 16 days prior to shipment 
Brucella canis test  
 For dogs 
from all 
approved countries except 
Australia 
 Within 16 days of shipment 
 6. 
Babesia canis  
treatment or test   For dogs that have resided 
or travelled in South Africa One injection of imidocarb dipropionate at 
7.5 mg/kg IM in the 16 days prior to the 
date of shipment OR IFA or ELISA test within 16 days of 
shipment 
OR PCR tests on samples collected 30 to 37 days apart with the second sample 
collected in the 16 days prior to shipment 
 
Heartworm 
treatment  
 For dogs 
from all 
approved countries  In the 4 days prior to the date of shipment 
 
7. 
Second internal 
parasite treatment   For cats & dogs from all approved 
countries 
 In the 4 days prior to the date of shipment Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 39 of 40 8. Send advance 
notification of arrival 
to MAF at port of 
arrival For cats & 
dogs from all approved 
countries 
 At least 72 hours before scheduled time of arrival  
Inspection and official certification  For cats & dogs from all approved countries 
 In the 2 days prior to shipment 
9. 
Second external 
parasite treatment For cat & dog from all 
approved 
countries  In the 2 days prior to shipment 
 
 
21 TRANSIT 
 
Cats and dogs can only  transit  via countries approved for import to New Zealand. See 
Approved Countries list in this docu
ment. Please check with your airline and/or pet 
exporter regarding transport arrangements. 
 
22 TREATMENTS 
 
Note regarding topical flea and tick products: Please DO NOT BATHE the animal for two days before and two days following the application of a topical treatment for parasites. 
 
23 YACHTS 
 
All yachts  arriving with animals on board must not berth in New Zealand but must go 
directly to o
ne of the ports approved as a place of first arrival.  
       Animals must be secured below decks on arrival at the port. The importer must immediately notify  MAF of the presence of an animal on board and whether or not 
arrangemen
ts have been made for the animal to go to a quarantine (transitional) facility.  
 
Cats or dogs arriving on yachts must remain secured on board at anchor or mooring at an approved port until the animal: 
 
 
1 Meets all requirements in the Veterinary Certificate for Cats and Dogs from Specified 
Countries where Rabies is Absent or Well Controlled (see Guidance Document) and is given biosecurity clearance,  
 
OR  
 
2 Leaves New Zealand within six months of arrival. 
 
 OPTION 1  Biosecurity clearance  
 
The cat or dog will go through all of the testing and treatment requirements, and then be 
free to travel throughout New Zealand. 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 40 of 40 Before arrival in New Zealand: 
 
1 The animal must be microchipped. The microchip must be scanned and recorded on all 
vaccination and treatment 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 before 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 MAF approved countries . 
 
5 Apply for an Permit to Import. 
 6 After arrival in New Zealand: 
 7 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. 
 
8 For biosecurity clearance: The animal may be sent to the transitional facility stated on the permit once the MAF Biosecurity Inspector has verified that the necessary identification, quarantine and transport arrangements have been made. The 
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. 
  
OPTION 2   Yacht moored at anchor with animal secured on board for six  
   months or less (no biosecurity clearance) 
 
1 The yacht must remain within the area specified by MAF 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. 
 2 Refer to: 
http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/enter/ships/yachts  
  3 A MAF 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. 
 4 No offshore testing required. 
 5 No restrictions on countries visited. 
 6 No Permit to Import required. 
 7 The dog or cat remains secured. 
 8 Yachts may only remain mid-water. They may not land or berth at a marina. 
 Guidance Document for the Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard    
CATDOG.GEN     16 December 2011                 Page 41 of 40 9 This option is allowed for a maximum stay of six months. Weekly MAF inspection for 
compliance is required. 
 
10 Treatment: A veterinarian must come on board to treat the animal for internal and external parasites under MAF supervision. Dogs must fulfil heartworm requirements. 
 11 If required by a MAF 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. 
 
12 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.