Before you move: the health certificate
California requires a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) — commonly called a health certificate — for dogs and cats entering the state. Under CDFA interstate animal movement regulations (accessed Aug 26, 2026), the certificate must be issued by a USDA-accredited veterinarian in your origin state within 10 days of entry into California.
The CVI must include:
- A description of your pet (breed, color, age, sex)
- Current rabies vaccination status with certificate number
- A statement that the animal is free from signs of infectious or communicable disease
- Your name, origin address, and California destination address
This applies whether you're driving or flying. Airlines will also require the health certificate for cabin or cargo travel.
Rabies vaccination: California's law
Under CA Health & Safety Code §121690 (accessed Aug 26, 2026), all dogs four months of age and older must have a current rabies vaccination. California does not have a statewide rabies vaccination requirement for cats, though many counties require it through local ordinances.
If your dog's rabies vaccination was administered in another state, the vaccination certificate is still valid in California as long as it was given by a licensed veterinarian and uses a USDA-approved vaccine. You don't need to re-vaccinate upon arrival.
County pet licensing: it's mandatory
California handles pet licensing at the county level, and most counties require you to license your dog within 30 days of moving in or within 30 days of your dog turning four months old. Licensing requirements vary by county, but all require proof of current rabies vaccination.
Here's what the major counties require:
| County | License required for | Fee range | Spay/neuter discount? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | Dogs & cats | $20–$100/yr | Yes — significant discount |
| San Francisco | Dogs only | $30–$50/yr | Yes |
| San Diego | Dogs & cats | $25–$80/yr | Yes |
| Orange County | Dogs | $20–$60/yr | Yes |
| Sacramento | Dogs & cats | $15–$60/yr | Yes |
Some counties (notably LA County) require cat licensing too. Check your specific county's animal services website for current fees and deadlines. Late fees apply in most jurisdictions.
Finding a new vet in California
The biggest post-move task: finding a vet and transferring your pet's records. California has no shortage of veterinary practices, but the good ones often have waiting lists — especially in major metros. Start your search before you move:
- Ask your current vet for referrals. Veterinarians often know colleagues in other states.
- Check the California Veterinary Medical Board (accessed Aug 26, 2026) to verify any vet's license status.
- Request records early. Ask your current vet for a complete copy of your pet's medical records at least 2 weeks before your move. Most practices will provide them as a PDF or printed packet.
Transferring records: the headache (and how to skip it)
The traditional record transfer process goes like this: call the old vet, request records, wait for them to fax or mail a packet, bring the packet to the new vet, hope nothing got lost. If your pet saw multiple vets (specialist, emergency vet, regular vet), multiply that process.
This is exactly the problem Voocie solves. When every vet sends records to your pet's @voocie.com email address, the complete health timeline lives in one place. New vet? Share the link. Emergency in a new city? The ER vet has everything instantly.
Special considerations for California
- Breed restrictions: California does not have a statewide breed ban, but some cities (like Lancaster) have local pit bull regulations. Check your specific city before moving.
- Flea/tick/heartworm: California's mild climate means fleas are active year-round in most areas. Start or continue year-round prevention.
- Coyote awareness: Especially in suburban Southern California, coyotes are a real threat to small dogs and cats. Many California vets will discuss outdoor safety during your first visit.
- Exotic pets: California has strict exotic animal laws. Ferrets are illegal to own in California — if you're moving with a ferret, this is a serious issue to research before your move.
Your California move checklist
Last verified: August 26, 2026. Licensing fees and county requirements change periodically. Always check your county's animal services website for current information.