Beginning August 1, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will implement new requirements for dogs entering the United States, as announced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Office of Field Operations.
Requirements for dogs entering the U.S.:
- Dogs must appear healthy upon arrival.
- Dogs must be at least six months old.
- Dogs must be microchipped.
- Dogs must be accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form online submission receipt.
Additionally, proof of rabies vaccination may be required depending on the dog’s travel history over the past 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 the disease.
“Regulating dog importation helps protect the health and safety of people and their pets,” stated 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.”
According to the CDC, dog rabies is uncontrolled in over 100 countries, posing a significant risk in imported dogs.
Travelers are encouraged to learn more about bringing a dog into the United States and to ensure all necessary documentation is obtained before departure. For additional information on animal imports, visit CBP.gov/travel.
