June 24, 2024
Starting August 1, 2024, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) will implement new measures to control the entry of dogs into the United States as part of efforts to combat the spread of rabies. These new importation requirements will apply to all travelers and all dogs entering the country, even for short visits, such as seeing family or friends, receiving veterinary care, or traveling as a companion.
Beginning on August 1, 2024, all dogs entering the United States must:
- Appear healthy upon arrival
- Be at least six months old
- Be microchipped
- Be accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form online submission receipt.
The CDC Dog Import Form must be completed for each trip, a process that takes less than five minutes and is free of charge. Travelers do not need to print the CDC Dog Import Form receipt; it can be shown on a phone to U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon arrival. While it is recommended to fill out the form ahead of time to ensure availability (considering a potential lack of internet access), it can also be completed immediately prior to entry.
Frequent border crossers can use the Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccine form, which is accepted for the duration that the rabies vaccine is valid (either 1 or 3 years).
To assist travelers, the CDC website now features a DogBot, designed to help determine the necessary requirements for traveling with a dog to the United States.
These new measures are designed to enhance the safety and health of both pets and people by preventing the spread of rabies, ensuring that all dogs entering the U.S. meet stringent health and safety criteria.
For frequently asked questions on dog importations, visit the CDC website's FAQ section and info on bringing a dog into the United States.
