CDC announces changes to US canine import requirements

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced July 22 that it has substantially revised its new rule on dog importation to the U.S. as it relates to dogs from rabies-free and low risk dog rabies countries. The new importation requirements, which will take effect August 1, are meant to prevent a reintroduction of canine rabies into the country.

“These updates incorporate the feedback received from the public, industry partners, and various countries on the new rule, and clarify and simplify the processes for those bringing in dogs from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries. This update also includes a process for waiver requests for the airline industry,” the announcement states.

The CDC says for dogs that have only been in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries for the six months before U.S. entry, the CDC Dog Import Form is the only form that is needed. It is available for free and the person bringing the dog into the U.S. is the one to fill it out. Each dog must have its own form.

In addition to having a receipt for a CDC Dog Import Form, the requirements are that all dogs:

• Be healthy on arrival.
• Be at least 6 months old.
• Have a microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner to identify them.

The CDC Dog Import Form can be filled out the day of travel and the receipt can be shown to airlines and border officials as a printed copy or by phone. The receipt will be good for travel into the U.S. for six months from the issue date, including multiple entries, according to the CDC.

Dog entering the country from rabies high-risk countries face additional requirements. For U.S.-vaccinated dogs, these include a certification of U.S.-issued rabies vaccination form or a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)-endorsed export health certificate. Foreign-vaccinated dogs require other documentation.

Canadian officials had previously expressed concerns that the new regulations would impact tourism and transportation sectors, Americans and Canadians living in border communities, and people with service dogs who require their support when traveling.

“The AVMA supports the CDC’s efforts to improve dog importation standards with the intent of protecting animal health, animal welfare, and public health,” said Dr. Sandra Faeh, AVMA president. “The AVMA also looks forward to continuing to work with the CDC to help veterinarians prepare for and understand the changes.”

A version of this story appears in the September 2024 print issue of JAVMA