Before the move: what to prepare
- Get a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI): If you're driving or flying into Oregon from another state, most airlines and many state entry points require a CVI issued within 30 days of travel. Your current vet needs your pet's complete vaccination records to issue one.
- Request your complete vet records: Ask your current vet for a full copy of your pet's medical history — vaccination certificates, lab results, surgical records, prescription history, and any chronic condition notes. These are the foundation for your new Oregon vet relationship.
- Confirm rabies vaccination is current: Oregon counties require rabies vaccination proof for dog licensing. If your pet's rabies vaccine is expiring within the next few months, get it updated before you move — it simplifies licensing in your new county.
- Update microchip registration: Change your contact information and address with your pet's microchip registry before or immediately after the move. Oregon animal services use microchip data for reunification.
After arrival: your first 30 days
| Task | Timeline | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Find and visit a new vet | Week 1–2 | Complete health history from previous vet |
| Apply for county dog license | Within 30 days of establishing residency | Current rabies certificate, spay/neuter proof |
| Update microchip registration | Immediately | New address and phone number |
| Research local boarding/daycare | First month | Vaccination records for meet-and-greet |
| Review leptospirosis vaccination | At first vet visit | Discuss with new vet based on your Oregon location |
Oregon's county-level licensing system
Unlike states with a single statewide license, Oregon handles pet licensing through individual counties and cities under ORS 609.100 (accessed Sep 1, 2026). When you move to Oregon, you'll need to determine which county or city handles your licensing:
- Portland (Multnomah County): Licenses both dogs and cats through Multnomah County Animal Services (accessed Sep 1, 2026). Dogs: $27–$107/year depending on spay/neuter and term length. Cats: $15–$90/year. Rabies vaccination certificate required.
- Eugene (Lane County): Dog licensing required. Check Lane County Animal Services for current fees.
- Salem (Marion County): Dog licensing required through the county dog control program.
- Bend (Deschutes County): Dog licensing required. The outdoor culture means your vet may recommend additional vaccinations (leptospirosis, rattlesnake) depending on your activities.
Under ORS 609.105 (accessed Sep 1, 2026), assistance animals are exempt from licensing fees across all Oregon counties.
Transferring vet records to your new Oregon vet
Oregon veterinarians will want your pet's complete history at the first visit. The most important records to transfer:
- All vaccination certificates with dates and lot numbers
- Recent lab work (blood panels, urinalysis) — especially within the last 6 months
- Surgical records and anesthesia notes
- Ongoing prescriptions and dosages
- Any chronic condition history (allergies, joint issues, dental history)
- Behavioral notes from your previous vet
Oregon-specific considerations for new residents
- Leptospirosis is a real concern: Western Oregon's wet climate and abundant waterways create ideal conditions for leptospirosis. Many Oregon vets recommend vaccination for dogs that will spend time near water, trails, or areas with wildlife — which in Oregon is most outdoor dogs. Discuss with your new vet at the first visit.
- Flea and tick prevention year-round: Oregon's mild climate means fleas remain active longer than in many states. Your new vet may adjust your pet's flea/tick prevention schedule from what you used in your previous state.
- Exotic animal regulations: If you're moving with exotic pets, Oregon has specific permit requirements under ORS 609.305–609.355 (accessed Sep 1, 2026). Check requirements before you arrive — some species require permits that take time to process.
- Dog-at-large laws: Under ORS 609.060, counties that prohibit dogs from running at large enforce this strictly. Leash laws vary by jurisdiction — check your city and county ordinances early.
What Voocie does for Oregon newcomers
Moving is the hardest moment for pet records. Your old vet has years of history, your new vet starts from zero, and the county wants vaccination proof for licensing. With Voocie, your pet's complete health timeline is already in one place — share the link with your new Oregon vet, and they have everything from day one.
At $99/year — about $10 a month — Voocie eliminates the records-transfer scramble. Start your 60-day free trial →
Last verified: September 1, 2026. County licensing fees and requirements change periodically. Always check your specific county's animal services website for current requirements.