Ace the USDA NVAP Global Health Challenge 2026 – Elevate Your Veterinary Expertise!

An accredited veterinarian (AV) who signs a health certificate is primarily attesting to the animal's identification and health status at the time of inspection. This process involves a thorough examination of the animal to ensure it is healthy and free from diseases that could pose a risk to other animals or humans. The veterinarian verifies the specific identification of the animal—like tags or microchips—and assesses its overall health through physical examination.

This responsibility is critical in international and interstate movements of animals, as it helps to prevent the spread of diseases. Owning an accurate health certificate helps regulatory bodies, transporters, and recipients feel assured that the animal meets health standards. While aspects such as ownership history, vaccination status, and travel history may be relevant in different contexts, the signing of a health certificate focuses on the health status and identification of the animal at that specific time, which is crucial for biosecurity measures and animal welfare.