HERSHEY, PA — Pennsylvania officials on Tuesday declared Santa Claus’s reindeer fit for flight, granting the legendary team a clean bill of health ahead of their Christmas Eve journey across the Commonwealth.
The announcement was made at Hersheypark, where Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, Pennsylvania State Veterinarian Dr. Alex Hamberg, and Tourism Office Executive Director Kaitie Burger joined Santa and his nine reindeer to confirm the animals had passed all required veterinary inspections.
State officials said the reindeer — Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donder, Blitzen, and Rudolph — were cleared after Pennsylvania veterinarians reviewed Alaska’s Certificate of Veterinary Inspection, a document required to ensure animals traveling across state lines are free of contagious diseases. The review allowed the team to legally and safely travel rooftop to rooftop for toy deliveries to children throughout Pennsylvania.
Redding said the clearance offers reassurance to families during the holiday season, while Hamberg noted the reindeer had received extensive care from Santa’s herd manager at the North Pole and from ZooAmerica’s veterinary team during their stay in Hershey. Burger added that Pennsylvania’s holiday atmosphere, from small towns to major attractions, makes the state a fitting backdrop for Santa’s annual visit.
Officials also highlighted Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, where the reindeer are on display as part of the holiday attraction, which runs through January 4, 2026. Organizers said the event continues a tradition that has drawn visitors to the park for decades during the Christmas season.
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