Pet Owners Serology Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine Serology-Virology Laboratory Pet Owners FAQ page. We understand that preparing your pet for international travel can be a complex process with many requirements and deadlines. This page provides answers to common questions about rabies antibody testing (FAVN and RFFIT), sample submission, result interpretation, and travel-related requirements. Our goal is to help you navigate the testing process and work effectively with your veterinarian to ensure a smooth experience for you and your pet. For country-specific travel requirements, please consult your veterinarian and the appropriate regulatory authorities.
Before You Begin
- Contact your veterinarian to discuss travel requirements.
- Verify destination-specific import regulations.
- Ensure your pet has a compliant microchip and current rabies vaccination.
- Schedule blood collection at the appropriate time.
- Allow sufficient time for testing and any required waiting periods before travel.
Getting Started
- Where do I start?
Pet owners must contact a local veterinary clinic to begin the testing process.
- Does my veterinarian need to be USDA-accredited?
Requirements vary by destination country. Many countries require a USDA-accredited veterinarian, but not all. Please confirm requirements with the destination country’s quarantine authority.
- Can I submit my pet’s sample directly to the laboratory?
No. Samples must be submitted through a veterinary clinic.
Microchips and Rabies Vaccination
- Does my pet need a microchip?
Most destinations require an ISO-compliant microchip prior to blood collection. Requirements vary by country.
- What if my pet has two microchips?
Only the first microchip listed on the FAVN form will appear on the official report.
- When should my pet have blood collected after rabies vaccination?
For best results:
- 10–21 days after a booster vaccination
- 14–30 days after a primary vaccination
Always confirm destination-specific requirements.
- How many rabies vaccinations should my pet have before testing?
At least two rabies vaccinations are generally recommended prior to FAVN testing for optimal antibody response.
- How often should my pet’s titers be checked?
The recommended frequency for rabies titer testing varies depending on individual circumstances and travel requirements. Please consult your veterinarian for current guidance based on your pet’s situation.
FAVN Testing for Pet Travel
- What is the FAVN test?
The Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization (FAVN) test measures rabies antibody levels for international pet travel.
- Is the FAVN test the same as the OIE-FAVN test?
Yes. The OIE-FAVN and FAVN tests are the same assay.
- Why is the FAVN test required?
Many rabies-free countries and islands require proof of adequate rabies antibody response prior to entry.
- Can I use an RFFIT test for international pet travel?
No. Rabies-free destinations generally require the FAVN test rather than RFFIT.
- Is your laboratory EU-approved?
Yes. The laboratory is EU-certified for rabies serology testing.
Understanding Results
- When will the results be available?
Turnaround times vary. Please refer to the laboratory website or search for the animal’s microchip number here: Microchip Search for an up-to-date estimate of the turnaround time.
- What does a passing result mean?
A passing FAVN result (≥0.50 IU/mL) indicates that your pet has an acceptable rabies antibody response according to international standards. However, a passing result alone does not guarantee entry into a destination country, as additional requirements such as waiting periods, health certificates, and documentation may apply.
- What happens if my pet’s result is below 0.50 IU/mL?
Your veterinarian may recommend:
- A rabies booster vaccination
- Repeat testing after revaccination
Some destinations may require quarantine if the minimum requirements are not met.
- How long are results valid?
Validity depends entirely on the destination country’s regulations.
- How are official reports delivered?
Results are typically emailed to the submitting veterinary clinic. Some destinations also receive reports directly from the laboratory.
Destination and Travel Requirements
Import requirements vary by country and may change without notice. Auburn University cannot determine entry requirements for specific destinations. Pet owners should verify all requirements directly with the destination country’s authorities and their veterinarian.
- Can the laboratory help with travel requirements?
No. Pet owners must confirm import requirements directly with the destination country or USDA resources website at the following link: Destination Country Requirements. For pet travel to Hawaii, please see Hawaii Animal Quarantine.
- Who endorses health certificates?
USDA officials complete certificate endorsement, not the laboratory. More information is on the USDA Travel Guidance website.
- What is the RNATT declaration?
The RNATT declaration is required for some destinations, such as Australia, and must be completed by an official government veterinarian. See Pet Travel to Australia for more information.
RFFIT Testing
- What is the difference between RFFIT Screen and Endpoint?
- Endpoint (Quantitative): Provides an exact antibody titer within the reportable range of 0.1–12.50 IU/mL.
- Screen (Qualitative): Reports ≥ 0.50 IU/mL or < 0.50 IU/mL
- Can RFFIT diagnose rabies?
No. Rabies titer testing cannot diagnose rabies infection.
- What if my RFFIT result is below 0.50 IU/mL?
Consult your veterinarian regarding revaccination and repeat testing.
- Can I use RFFIT testing for pets traveling to rabies-free countries or islands?
No. For international travel to rabies-free countries or islands, the FAVN test is required.
Helpful Resources
For additional information, please refer to the following:
