Santa's reindeer have been cleared for takeoff.
Ahead of their big day, the American Veterinary Medical Association sent two doctors to the North Pole to examine Santa's reindeer.
At the end of the in-person exam, the doctors declared the nine reindeer healthy and ready for their magical Christmas Eve journey around the world.
"After a full examination and review of their medical records, I'm pleased to say that Santa's reindeer are healthy, in great shape and ready to fly on Christmas Eve," AVMA President Rena Carlson said in a statement.
The reindeer's annual exam includes a health check to make sure they're not showing any signs of disease —such as brucellosis, tuberculosis or chronic wasting disease — that can affect their ability to fly, or threaten the health of other animals or people.
Each reindeer's fur was inspected for signs of lesions or parasites as well as their eyes, noses, legs and hooves.
"It's fascinating how reindeer have adapted to the harsh North Pole climate, from their hollow fur, which allows them to trap and retain heat, to the mass of tiny veins in their noses that help circulate blood to keep them warm — and in some deer, give their noses a red glow," Carlson said.
Now that the examination has been completed, the AVMA issued Santa a "North Pole Certificate of Animal Export," allowing him to travel freely across the world and ensure his reindeer pose no threat to animal or public health.
"While this may be an out-of-the-ordinary visit, ensuring that these magical and magnificent animals are fit for their important journey reflects the vital work veterinarians and their teams perform every day around the world to ensure the health and safety of animals and people," said Carlson.
Although unavailable for comment due to his busy work schedule, Santa issued a statement, saying, "Without my reindeer there simply would be no Christmas. Proper veterinary care ensures that, year in and year out, my team and I are able to deliver presents to boys and girls around the world."
"Ho, ho, ho," Santa added.