The rabies titer test is the step people worry about, because it sets your departure date. Once understood, it is not complicated. Here are the answers to the questions we hear every week.
What is the titer test for?
It is a blood test that measures rabies antibodies after vaccination. It proves the vaccine worked. The European Union, the UK, Switzerland and several other countries (UAE, Australia, New Zealand…) require it for pets coming from Morocco, which is classed as a rabies-risk country.
When to draw blood?
- At least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
- The vaccine must have been given after the microchip, otherwise it is not recognised.
- Your vet in Morocco takes the sample and sends it to an EU-approved laboratory (usually in Europe).
What result is needed?
The level must be 0.5 IU/ml or higher. Below that, a booster vaccine and a new blood draw 30 days later are needed, which pushes back the whole schedule.
How long for the result?
Usually 2 to 4 weeks between the draw and the report, including shipping the sample. The report must show the pet's microchip number.
Why the 3-month wait?
For the EU and the UK, the pet may only enter 3 months after the date of the successful blood draw (not the date of the result). This is why preparation for Europe takes 4 to 5 months.
Good news: as long as boosters are given on time without a gap, the titer result stays valid for life. No need to repeat it for every trip.
Which destinations don't require it?
Canada, Thailand and Senegal, for example, do not require a titer test for a compliant pet. The USA applies its own CDC rules for dogs. See our destination pages.
Typical schedule for Europe
- Day 0: microchip + rabies vaccine.
- Day 30: blood draw for the titer test.
- Day 30 + 3 months: entry into the EU allowed.
- Within 10 days of arrival: health certificate endorsed by ONSSA.
Prefer to hand it over? Our IATA-certified team in Casablanca handles the vet file, ONSSA, the crate and the flight. Ask for a free quote: answer within 24 hours.
