CDC Dog Import Permit: What You Need to Know (2024)

Key Highlights Regarding the New CDC Dog Import Permit

The CDC has implemented new rules that go into effect August 1, 2024.
Dogs must be 6 months old and have an ISO-approved microchip (confirm with your veterinarian it is ISO-approved) before the Rabies vaccination is given.
Owners or organizations importing foreign-vaccinated dogs must apply for a CDC Dog Import Permit and travel into one of 18 CDC-approved airports.
Start the CDC application process well in advance, as it may take 8 weeks to process the application.
It is important for pet owners to be aware of the new regulations and ensure they have the necessary documentation and vaccinations for their dogs before traveling to the United States.

Introduction

The Centers For Disease Control (CDC) has recently implemented new regulations for dog importation, including the importation of dogs, which will go into effect on August 1, 2024. These regulations aim to protect public health and prevent the reintroduction of dog rabies into the United States.

Under the new regulations, dogs entering the country must meet specific age and health requirements, as well as mandates for microchipping and rabies vaccination. Additionally, the CDC has outlined detailed requirements for dogs entering the United States, including the need for a valid rabies serology titer from an approved laboratory and a rabies vaccination certificate that lists the dog’s age (at least 6 months). It is important to note that in addition to CDC requirements, you must also comply with the regulations set by the US Department of Agriculture and your US destination's regulations. These regulations may vary and could be more strict than federal requirements, especially for dogs imported for commercial purposes.

It is important for pet owners to understand these requirements and ensure they have the necessary documentation and vaccinations for their dogs before traveling. Your veterinarian's office is busy, and it is their job to keep your pet healthy first and foremost. Although they can be helpful with the documents, it is ultimately your responsibility to make sure all the needed requirements are met on the timeline requirements set forth by the CDC and the US Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

New Age and Health Requirements for Dogs

Under the new regulations, dogs must be at least 6 months old to be eligible for importation. Additionally, dogs must be healthy and free from any signs of illness or disease upon arrival.

The health requirements also include ensuring that the dogs have not been in a high-risk country for dog rabies within the past 6 months or since birth if under 6 months of age. This is to prevent the spread of rabies to the United States. It is important for dog owners to keep track of their dog's travel history and ensure that they meet these new age and health requirements before planning their trip to the United States.

What if you are coming from a high-risk Rabies Country?

If dogs have been in a country with a high risk of dog rabies within six months before coming to the United States and do not possess valid U.S.-issued rabies vaccination documentation, they must enter the U.S. by air at a port of entry with a CDC-registered Animal Care Facility (ACF). In addition, they should have a pre-arrival reservation at an ACF and provide proof of a valid rabies titer obtained from a CDC-approved laboratory before arrival or undergo a 28-day quarantine at an ACF upon arrival.

Organizing Required Documentation for Travel

Organizing the required documentation for your dog's travel to the United States is crucial to ensure compliance with the CDC dog import permit requirements. Here is a list of the essential documents you must have:

Microchip and Rabies Vaccination Mandates

In addition to the age and health requirements, the new regulations also mandate microchipping and current rabies vaccination for dogs entering the United States. Each dog must have an ISO-compatible microchip for identification, listed on their U.S. rabies vaccination certificate or CDC Rabies Vaccination and Microchip Record.

Furthermore, dogs must have a valid rabies vaccination administered by a licensed veterinarian on or after 12 weeks of age and at least 28 days before arrival in the United States. The rabies vaccine must be administered according to the manufacturer's guidelines and be recorded on the dog's vaccination certificate or CDC Rabies Vaccination and Microchip Record. In addition, for foreign-vaccinated dogs that have been in a country with high risk of dog rabies within 6 months before entry, the Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form must be completed by your veterinarian and endorsed by an official veterinarian in the exporting country.

During the transition period, the importer may instead present a copy of the USDA endorsed export health certificate that was used to ship the dog from the United States if that export health certificate documents the dog’s age (at least 6 months), the microchip number, and a valid rabies vaccination form administered in the United States.

Requirements for Dogs Entering the US

The requirements for dogs entering the United States include providing valid documentation of the dog's age, health, microchip number, and rabies vaccination. These documents are necessary to ensure compliance with the CDC regulations and to protect public health. Dog owners must be prepared to provide the necessary documentation, also known as entry requirements, upon arrival in the United States. If you're bringing dogs into the United States for commercial sale or adoption, additional requirements will apply.

One of the key requirements is a valid rabies serology titer, which is a blood test that measures the level of rabies antibodies in the dog's blood. This test is used to determine if the dog has an adequate immune response to the rabies vaccine. Additionally, a rabies vaccination certificate is required, which should include details of the vaccination, such as the vaccine product name, manufacturer, lot number, and expiration date.

Age Requirement and Rabies Vaccination Timeline

In terms of the rabies vaccination timeline, the vaccine must be administered by a licensed veterinarian on or after 12 weeks of age and at least 28 days before arrival in the United States. This timeline allows sufficient time for the vaccine to take effect and for the dog to develop an adequate immune response. Additionally, dog owners must ensure that the rabies vaccination is recorded on the appropriate vaccination form, which should include all the necessary details of the vaccination. Always verify with the CDC website as requirements change, and also, entry is affected by whether you are entering from a low-risk or high-risk country.

Health Appearance and Microchip Verification Process

In addition to age and vaccination requirements, dogs entering the United States must also undergo a health appearance and microchip verification process. Upon arrival, the dogs' health will be checked to ensure they appear healthy and free from any signs of illness or disease.

Understanding the Impact on Pet Owners and Veterinarians

The new CDC dog import permit requirements have significant implications for both pet owners and veterinarians. It is the pet owner's responsibility to be aware of the specific regulations and requirements for bringing their dogs into the United States.

Veterinarians play a crucial role in assisting pet owners in complying with these new regulations, although it is ultimately the pet owner's responsibility to ensure that all requirements are met. A veterinarian must administer a Rabies vaccination, offer health check-ups, and help with the necessary documentation to pet owners. Veterinarians can also provide guidance and support to pet owners throughout the process of obtaining a CDC dog import permit and preparing for travel.

Step-by-Step Guide to Complying with the New Regulations

Complying with the new CDC dog import permit requirements may seem overwhelming at first, but with proper planning and preparation, it can be a smooth process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the requirements and ensure compliance:

Familiarize yourself with the new regulations and understand the specific requirements that apply to your dog.
Complete the CDC dog import form, providing accurate and up-to-date information about your dog.
Apply for a CDC dog import permit at least 8 weeks before your intended travel.
Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to ensure your dog meets the age and health requirements and receives the necessary vaccinations.
Obtain the required documentation, including a valid rabies serology titer and a rabies vaccination certificate.
Make necessary travel arrangements, including booking flights that arrive at one of the 18 airports with a CDC port health station.
Ensure that your dog's microchip information is accurate and matches the information on the vaccination certificate.
Keep all the required documentation with you during travel and be prepared to present them upon arrival in the United States.

Scheduling Microchipping and Vaccinations

Scheduling microchipping and vaccinations for your dog is an important step in complying with the new CDC dog import permit requirements. Microchipping is essential for accurate identification of your dog and is a mandatory requirement for entry into the United States. It is recommended to schedule microchipping well in advance of your planned travel to ensure sufficient time for the microchip to be registered and for your dog's information to be recorded.

In addition to microchipping, you must ensure that your dog receives the necessary vaccinations, including the rabies vaccine. It is important to schedule the vaccinations according to the recommended timeline, with the first vaccination administered on or after 12 weeks of age and at least 28 days before arrival in the United States.

Addressing Common Concerns and Questions

What if my dog's vaccination status is not up to date?

It is essential to ensure that your dog's vaccinations, including the rabies vaccine, are up to date before traveling to the United States. If the vaccinations are not current, you may face difficulties in complying with the regulations

Are there any exceptions for service dogs?

Service dogs are subject to the same regulations as other dogs entering the United States. However, additional documentation may be required to prove the dog's service status.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the CDC dog import permit requirements is essential for pet owners and veterinarians alike. The new regulations outline age, health, and identification mandates for dogs entering the US. Compliance with microchipping, rabies vaccinations, and documentation is crucial to ensure a smooth entry process. Pet owners must prepare in advance, while veterinarians play a key role in verifying health requirements. By following the step-by-step guide and addressing common concerns, both parties can navigate the regulations effectively. Stay informed to ensure a safe and stress-free travel experience for your beloved canine companions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if My Dog's Rabies Vaccination is Not from the US?

If your dog's rabies vaccination is not from the United States, you will need to follow specific guidelines to ensure compliance with CDC regulations. You will need to provide a valid CDC dog import form receipt, which can be obtained from the CDC website. This receipt serves as proof that your dog's vaccination is recognized by the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is important to note that vaccinations from certain countries may not be accepted, so it is crucial to refer to the CDC's guidelines or consult with a veterinarian for the most up-to-date information.

How to Ensure My Pet's Microchip Meets US Standards?

To ensure your pet's microchip meets US standards, it is essential to have an ISO-compatible microchip implanted. This microchip should be listed on your pet's U.S. rabies vaccination certificate or CDC Rabies Vaccination and Microchip Record.

References

(1)Approved Rabies Serology Laboratories for Testing Dogs. (n.d.). https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/approved-labs.html

(2) From now until July 31, 2024: How to Apply for a CDC Dog Import Permit | Importation | CDC. (n.d.). https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/apply-dog-import-permit.html

(3)From August 1, 2024, Onward: What Your Dog Needs to Enter the United States | Importation | CDC. (n.d.). https://www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/dogs-entering-us-after-august-1.html#requirements

(4)Dog import requirements strengthened to prevent canine rabies return. (2024, May 10). American Veterinary Medical Association. https://www.avma.org/news/dog-import-requirements-strengthened-prevent-canine-rabies-return#:~:text=A%20certificate%20of%20rabies%20vaccination,risk%20or%20rabies%2Dfree%20country.