The FAVN test must be submitted for pet travel to many of the Caribbean Islands. This test must be done by an accredited laboratory.
Is Kansas State an EU certified lab for rabies serology for pet travel?
Yes, they are an EU certified lab and if shipping from the USA your pet’s sample will be processed through them.
Why is the FAVN test needed for my pet?
The FAVN test is required by many rabies-free countries, regions or islands in order for dogs and cats to qualify for a reduced quarantine period prior to entry. A passing FAVN result ((>/= 0.5 IU/mL) provides proof of adequate response to rabies vaccination.
Is the FAVN Test the same as the OIE-FAVN Testing?
Yes, the OIE-FAVN (Office International des Epizooties) test is same as the FAVN test; the test is performed following the FAVN procedure in the OIE manual.
Is the FAVN Test the same as the RNATT?
Yes, the RNATT (Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test) is the same as the FAVN test. RNATT is a generic term which encompasses the FAVN method.
If the pet is travelling to a Rabies Free Country or Island, can I submit the RFFIT?
No, The FAVN test must be submitted for pet travel.
How much does the FAVN testing cost?
Our requirements, policies and costs are updated on our website at Tests and Fees.
My pet has two microchip numbers, which one should I list on my FAVN form?
If an animal has two microchips, the first number listed on the submission form is the only one that will be on the official FAVN result label. Most destinations require an ISO microchip be implanted before the blood sample is drawn. Some destinations have scanners that only read certain brands of microchips. Choose which microchip to list first based on these and any other criteria the destination may have.
How much history of the rabies vaccination should I provide?
Record the dates of 2-3 rabies vaccinations beginning with the most recent. Please check with the destination for their specific requirements. It is recommended the animal have a minimum of two rabies vaccinations for best chance of achieving a passing titer of 0.5 IU/mL.
Does the Veterinarian have to be Accredited?
Yes, the identity of the veterinarian is critical to assessing the biosecurity risk associated with the animal. The USDA has an understandably rigid view that only USDA accredited veterinarians can undertake the testing, treatments and examinations needed for the purposes of importing dogs and cats to Rabies Free Countries or Islands.
How will I know if my Veterinarian is a USDA Accredited?
Information regarding The National Veterinary Accreditation Program is available at this link: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/nvap
Who will endorse the Rabies and Health Certificate?
IREGS for Animal Exports is at this link: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/export/iregs-for-animal-exports/ct_iregs_animal_exports_home
I don’t understand the regulations for exporting animals.
If you have questions or concerns regarding regulations for exporting animals to a foreign country, you can contact the Veterinary Services service center in the State from which the animals will be exported. For import/export questions, contact your National Import Export Service Center . https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/nvap/ct_areavet
Does the USDA website have FAQ to help me? Yes, at the following link:
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/export/iregs-for-animal-exports/ct_live_animal_export_faqs
When are the results ready?
The delivery time of the FAVN test results may vary without notice. Please check with the laboratory rabies@vet.k-state.edu for an up-to-date estimate of the turnaround time
My pet’s rabies titer failed (was less than 0.50 IU/mL). What should I do now? We recommend a minimum of two rabies vaccinations before taking the blood sample for FAVN testing. Most rabies-free countries have extended quarantine periods for pets that don’t meet minimum requirements. Alternatively, consult with your veterinarian about the possibility of an additional rabies vaccination and collecting another blood sample. It is best to wait 10-21 days after re-vaccination to take a blood sample so that the pet has time to develop a higher antibody response. Please carefully read and interpret the results on the report and contact us if you have questions
How long is the FAVN test valid?
The destination countries decide how long the FAVN test result is valid for, please check directly with them. For Hawaii, please go to http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/animal-quarantine-microchip-search/ for more information.
How and where is the official FAVN report sent?
The results of the FAVN testing are printed on a white adhesive sticker that is applied to a COPY of the FAVN REPORT FORM which was submitted with the sample. The Official FAVN REPORT FORM (copy with white sticker/purple KSVDL logo) is distributed in one of the following ways:
Hawaii – An electronic copy is sent via fax or email to the submitting clinic or reference lab. The Official FAVN is sent to the Animal Industry Division of the Hawaiian Animal Quarantine. For information about Hawaii’s requirements, please go to: http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/animal-quarantine-information-page/ – to verify if Hawaii has received your animal’s results, travel date, and the time period the FAVN result is valid, please follow the instructions on this web page: http://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/animal-quarantine-microchip-search/
If traveling to Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Fiji, Guam, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, and Turks & Caicos, the Official FAVN is airmailed directly to Island’s Department of Agriculture. Also, an electronic copy is sent via fax or email to the Island and submitting clinic or reference lab.
For all other destinations, the Official FAVN report is sent to the submitting clinic or reference lab via FedEx Express Saver or USPS. The Official FAVN is airmailed to international clinics, however, Courier delivery is highly recommended at an additional fee. Courier Requests MUST be received before the results are finalized. Submit the Courier Delivery Form with the sample(s) or choose “Pay Now Online” at the following link: http://www.ksvdl.org/accounting-billing/indes.html
The FAVN report can be sent directly to the pet owner with written permission from the submitting clinic or reference laboratory. A copy of the FAVN report also can be sent via email or fax to USDA veterinarians or quarantine stations at no charge.
Caribbean Pet Jets 