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Rabies Antibody Titer Test
for International Pet Travel
If you are traveling with your pets to EU countries, UK, USA (dog only),Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, Japan or other rabies free country, rabies antibody titer test is required before entering in to the country.
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The results of the test must be 0.5 IU/ml or above.
What is Rabies Titer Test?
A rabies antibody titer is essentially an estimation of an immune response against rabies virus (either through exposure or vaccination). The RFFIT is one method which provides a laboratory measurement of the ability of an individual human or animal serum sample to neutralize rabies virus. The test must be done by licensed veterinarian and sent to an approve laboratory.
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If you are traveling with your pet from where rabies is prevalent to a country that is free from rabies, RNAT and FAVN test establishes that your pet is sufficiently immune against rabies.
This test is necessary for international pet travel to protect the local animals from rabies.
Some countries have reduced or no quarantine time for pets travel with a rabies titer test.
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How long should I wait after my pet has been vaccinated before drawing the sample?According to regulations of destination country, most of them requires the animal to wait for atleast 30 days after the administration of the rabies vaccine. However, some countries have different requirements and because of this we recommend you to contact us earlier to prepare your pets.
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How long does the test take?Once we collect the sample and sample has been received, the test normally takes about 2-3 weeks to complete. You will receive a copies by email with in a month and original will be sent to us after a result by email available by tracked airmail or courier which could take a week or two.
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My pet’s rabies titer failed (was less than 0.5IU/mL)Most rabies-free countries have extended quarantine periods for pets that don’t meet minimum requirements. If you want to revaccinate the pet and try testing again, we recommend waiting four weeks after the booster before drawing a new sample. Please double check the results to make sure the pet actually failed (<0.5 IU/mL).
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How is the rabies titer test performed?A veterinarian will draw a blood sample from the pet, usually from a vein in the leg or neck. The blood is then sent to a laboratory, where it is tested for the presence of rabies antibodies.
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What is considered a satisfactory rabies titer result?The acceptable level of rabies antibodies can vary depending on the country. Most countries require a titer level of at least 0.5 international units per milliliter (IU/mL) as per the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) guidelines. However, some countries may have their own specific requirements.
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Are there any exemptions to the rabies titer test requirement?Some countries may have exemptions or different requirements for pets coming from rabies-free or low-rabies-risk countries. These exemptions are typically based on the country's rabies status.
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Can a pet travel if it fails to meet the rabies titer test requirement?If a pet fails to meet the rabies titer test requirement, it may be denied entry into the destination country or subject to quarantine. It is important to comply with the entry requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience for your pet.
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Why is a rabies titer test required for pet travel?Many countries have specific entry requirements for pets, including proof of rabies vaccination and a satisfactory rabies titer test. The test helps ensure that the pet has an adequate level of protection against rabies and poses no risk of spreading the disease.
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Is the rabies titer test the same as a rabies vaccination?No, the rabies titer test and rabies vaccination are two different things. The titer test measures the level of rabies antibodies in the bloodstream to assess the pet's immune response, while the vaccination involves administering the rabies vaccine to provide immunity against the virus.
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Can a pet travel internationally without a rabies titer test?It depends on the regulations of the destination country. Some countries may have strict requirements and mandate a rabies titer test for entry, while others may have different rules or exemptions. It's crucial to research and comply with the specific entry requirements of the destination country to ensure a smooth travel experience for your pet.
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What does it mean if my pet fails the rabies titer test?If your pet fails the rabies titer test, it means that the level of rabies antibodies in their bloodstream did not meet the required threshold set by the destination country. This can indicate insufficient immune response to the rabies virus.
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Why might my pet fail the rabies titer test?There can be several reasons why a pet may fail the rabies titer test. It could be due to an ineffective or expired rabies vaccine, improper vaccine administration, insufficient time elapsed since vaccination, or individual variations in immune response.
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Can my pet retake the rabies titer test immediately after failing?In most cases, immediate retesting is not recommended. The pet will likely need to be revaccinated against rabies, and there is usually a waiting period before another titer test can be conducted. The waiting period can vary depending on the regulations of the destination country.
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How can I prevent my pet from failing the rabies titer test?To increase the chances of a successful rabies titer test, it's essential to follow proper vaccination protocols. Ensure that your pet receives a valid and effective rabies vaccine administered by a licensed veterinarian. Adhere to the recommended vaccination schedule and allow sufficient time to elapse before conducting the titer test according to the destination country's requirements.
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