When will MWDs receive a physical if traveling?

• A. Only prior to shipment
• B. Upon arrival
• C. Prior to shipment and within 30 days of arriving at a new location
• D. Every 6 months

Answer: (C)

The main idea is to keep the MWD healthy and ready around moves by timing medical checks with travel. A physical before shipment verifies the dog is fit to travel and work, with up-to-date vaccines and preventive care, so there’s no medical hold preventing deployment. Having another physical within 30 days of arriving at a new location catches any issues that could have emerged during travel or in the new environment and ensures medical records are current at the new facility. This dual timing protects the dog’s health and keeps the transition smooth. It’s not just before shipment (would miss post-travel health), not only upon arrival (miss pre-travel readiness), and not every six months (unrelated to moving and travel demands).