A Pet Owner’s Guide to the Updated CDC’s United States Import Requirements for Dogs and Cats

Calling all globetrotting pet parents! The US recently introduced new pet relocation regulations, effective August 1, 2024. These updates ensure your pet's safe and healthy journey while keeping our community rabies-free. Here at PetRelocation, we've helped countless paws touch down on American soil, and we're here to guide you through the updates easily.

The fundamental changes in the US import regulations focus on ensuring proper documentation and minimizing the risk of rabies:

  • Designated Ports for High-Risk Countries: If your furry friend hails from a country with a high risk of dog rabies, they'll need to enter the US through designated airports. These airports have the resources to handle the specific inspections required for high-risk pups.
  • CDC Dog Import Form: All dog owners, regardless of origin country, must submit a new online form 2-10 days before their pet's arrival. This form helps streamline the process and ensures all necessary information is on hand.
  • Endorsed Rabies Vaccinations: Dogs from high-risk rabies countries need an official stamp of approval from the country's Ministry of Agriculture to receive rabies vaccination. This verifies the vaccine's authenticity and effectiveness.
  • No More Import Permits: The good news? You no longer need a separate import permit to bring your dog into the US. The CDC Dog Import Form simplifies the process.

Let's Get Packing: A Step-by-Step Guide:

 

Pre-Departure Prep (Do this well in advance):

  • Vaccinations: Ensure your pet is current on all vaccinations, including rabies. Double-check the US requirements and get any needed boosters. If your dog is from a high-risk country, get its rabies vaccination endorsed by the Ministry of Agriculture. We've included a handy downloadable checklist to keep you on track.
  • Health Certificate: Get a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian stating your pet is healthy for travel. This usually involves a physical exam and may require additional tests depending on your pet's origin country.

Shortly Before Takeoff (2-10 days before arrival):

  • CDC Dog Import Form: This is your new BFF! Complete and submit the online CDC Dog Import Form at least 2 days before your pet's arrival.
  • Documentation Double-Check: Ensure you have all required documents: health certificate, CDC Dog Import Form submission receipt, and (for high-risk dogs) endorsed rabies vaccination records.

All dogs fall into one of the following scenarios:

  • Scenario 1 – Valid U.S. Administered Rabies Vaccination, Traveling from High-Risk Rabies Country

  1. A dog can arrive at any port in the U.S.
  2. It must be 6 months or older and microchipped.
  3. Submit the CDC Dog Import Form with photos of the dog 2-10 days before arrival.
  4. Have proof of the USDA-endorsed U.S. rabies vaccine certificate before the dog leaves the U.S. OR have the USDA-endorsed export health certificate used to ship the dog to the high-risk rabies country that lists a current rabies vaccination.

  • Scenario 2 – Valid U.S. Administered Rabies Vaccination, Traveling from a Low-Risk Rabies Country

  1. A dog can arrive at any port in the U.S.
  2. It must be 6 months or older and microchipped.
  3. Submit the CDC Dog Import Form with photos of the dog 2-10 days before arrival.
  4. Have proof of the USDA-endorsed U.S. rabies vaccine certificate before the dog leaves the U.S. OR have the USDA-endorsed export health certificate used to ship the dog to the low-risk rabies country that lists a current rabies vaccination.

  • Scenario 3 – Foreign Rabies Vaccination, Traveling from High-Risk Rabies Country

  1. A dog must arrive at one of the six designated ports.
  2. It must be 6 months or older and microchipped.
  3. Submit the CDC Dog Import Form with photos of the dog 2-10 days before arrival.
  4. Rabies vaccination and titer test should be performed at least 30 days after the vaccine and a minimum of 28 days before arrival.
  5. Obtain Ministry of Agriculture endorsement in high-risk country Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form.
  6. During customs clearance at these port facilities, dogs will undergo an examination, verification of age, documents, microchip number, and administering a rabies booster vaccination.
  7. If the dog does not have a titer upon arrival, the pet owner must book a 28-day quarantine stay at one of these ports.

  • Scenario 4 – Foreign Rabies Vaccination, Traveling from Low-Risk Rabies Country

  1. A dog can arrive at any port in the U.S.
  2. It must be 6 months or older and microchipped.
  3. Submit the CDC Dog Import Form with photos of the dog 2-10 days before arrival.
  4. Rabies vaccination record.
  5. Obtain Ministry of Agriculture endorsement in the low-risk country within 30 days before departure of one of the following documents:
  • Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form.
  • Certification of dogs arriving from DMRVV-free or Low-Risk Country into the United States.
  • A foreign export certificate that documents the dog is at least 6 months of age and lists the dog’s International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip number.

Keeping Everyone Healthy: Health and Safety Considerations

 

  • Rabies Vaccinations: This is crucial! All pets must be vaccinated against rabies as per US guidelines, with additional endorsements required for dogs from high-risk countries.
  • Quarantine Considerations: Depending on their health status, pets from high-risk rabies countries may be subject to quarantine upon arrival. The duration varies, and it takes place in approved facilities to ensure everyone's safety.
  • State Variations: Remember, federal regulations are just the first step. Always check the specific pet import requirements for your destination state. Don't worry; we've got you covered – we'll provide a link to a handy resource to find your state's regulations in a snap!

Useful Resources

For further details and updates, refer to the following resources:

Feeling Overwhelmed? Don't Fur-get We're Here to Help!

Navigating these updates might seem complex, but it's a smooth journey with the right guidance. Here at PetRelocation, we've been helping pets relocate across the globe for years, ensuring a safe, smooth, and stress-free process for you and your furry friend. For personalized guidance and expert advice, contact us today.

Author:

PetRelocation Team

Topic:

How-To Guides

Pet:

Cats, Dogs

Country:

United States
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