The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is implementing new requirements for dogs entering the U.S. starting August 1, 2024. These changes aim to protect public health and prevent the reintroduction of dog rabies into the United States.
New Requirements for Dogs Entering the U.S.
Travelers planning to bring dogs into the U.S. should be aware of the following new requirements:
- Health Check: Dogs must appear healthy upon arrival.
- Age Requirement: Dogs must be at least six months old.
- Microchip: Dogs must be microchipped.
- CDC Dog Import Form: An online submission receipt of the CDC Dog Import Form must accompany the dog.
Additionally, proof of rabies vaccination may be required based on where the dog has been in the last six months and whether the vaccination occurred in the U.S. or another country. Dogs arriving from countries with a high risk of dog rabies must be protected against rabies.
Importance of the New Regulations
“Regulating dog importation helps protect the health and safety of people and their pets,” said Port Director Donovan Delude. “The rabies variant carried by dogs was eliminated in the U.S. in 2007, and we’re working diligently with the CDC to prevent its reintroduction.”
Rabies Risk
According to the CDC, dog rabies is not controlled in over 100 countries, which poses an inherent risk when importing dogs. Therefore, these regulations are crucial in maintaining public health safety.
What Travelers Need to Do
Travelers are advised to:
- Learn about the specific requirements for bringing a dog into the U.S.
- Obtain all necessary documentation before departure.
- Visit CBP.gov/travel for additional information on animal imports and more.
Conclusion
To ensure a smooth and safe entry into the U.S. with your dog, familiarize yourself with the new CDC requirements effective August 1, 2024. Preparing in advance will help protect both public health and your beloved pet.
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JEREMY L. RICHARDS is the founding partner of Richards and Jurusik and has dedicated his career to U.S. immigration law, with a specialized focus on assisting Canadian and Mexican citizens under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) to work and live in the United States. (Full Bio)
