Traveling to the U.S. With Dogs? Here Are the New CDC Rules You Need to Know

Starting August 1 of 2024, dogs below six months of age are strictly prohibited from entering the U.S. They also must be microchipped and fully vaccinated against rabies. The new rules are part of an enhanced effort to prevent the spread of rabies, a disease that poses serious health risks to both animals and humans. 

Rabies vaccination for imported dogs

CDC is taking health precautions a step further, requiring all dogs entering the U.S., regardless of their location, to be fully vaccinated against rabies. This is especially true for dogs being imported from countries where rabies is prevalent. This must happen before they can be found suitable for entry into the United States.

Timely vaccination and booster requirements

Furthermore, if it is the dog’s first vaccination or if previous vaccination coverage has lapsed, the vaccine must be administered at least 28 days prior to their arrival. Also, booster rabies vaccines administered after the dog reaches 15 months of age are valid immediately.

Mandatory age and microchipping standards

Dogs that are less than six months old are no longer allowed to enter the U.S. The age limit has been implemented as a precautionary measure because younger dogs aren’t yet viable candidates for rabies vaccinations. In addition to this, the government also now mandates that all dogs must be microchipped for better identification and tracking. 

Entry for dogs from lower-risk countries

If your furry friend hasn’t been to a high-risk country in the past half-year, you’ll find the entry process somewhat easier. You can bring your pet into the U.S. via any port of entry without having to present documentation of rabies vaccination. However, you do need to provide assurance. You need to send proof that your pet hasn’t been in a country high-risk for rabies within the previous six months or since its birth if it’s less than six months old.

No restrictions on dog import quantity

The good news for those with multiple pets is that the CDC doesn’t limit the number of dogs you can import.

Dog health certificate

Bear in mind a health certificate won’t cut it anymore. While earlier, a health certificate signed by a vet was sufficient, with the new rules, a standard international health certificate is now requisite. 

Advance notice

Under the new rules, you’re also required to provide at least 3 days advance notice to the CDC upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry with a dog.

Keep all dog’s documents at hand

Just as you would never forget your passport, the CDC emphasizes the necessity of keeping all your canine companion’s records accessible when travelling to the U.S. This includes the following:

• Your dog’s CDC rabies vaccination
• Microchip record
• Or a U.S.-issued rabies vaccination certificate

Import permits and booking confirmations

It’s important to have your dog’s CDC Dog Import Permit or a booking confirmation from a recognized pet care facility. Having these papers ready will make your travel easier and ensure all key requirements are met.

State-specific requirements

The CDC’s dog entry requirements are generally standard across the U.S. However, some states may have additional regulations about vaccination and health certificates. Be aware that certain cities, states, or airlines may also restrict specific dog breeds. Always check with your destination state’s Department of Agriculture or local health department. 

Service animal rules and regulations

When traveling with service animals, be sure to check out entry requirements at your planned ports of call. Service animals may require specific documentation or have unique entry conditions, so doing your homework beforehand can make your journey smoother for both you and your furry friend. 

Compliance with new federal guidelines

These new guidelines stirred some significant changes to the protocols for importing dogs into the U.S. Owners and pet importers must now comply with these stringent measures to ensure the minimization of rabies cases in the country, safeguarding both the animal and human populations.