CDC Updates Dog Importation Process

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has clarified and simplified the process for bringing dogs into the United States from rabies-free and low-risk dog rabies countries. CDC aims to protect the health of U.S. communities and animals and prevent the re-introduction of dog rabies to the United States.

These updates incorporate the feedback received from the public, industry partners, and various countries on the dog importation rule, and clarify and simplify the processes for those bringing dogs from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries. This update also includes a process for waiver requests for the airline industry.

To provide greater flexibility to the requirements for dogs coming from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries, when the rule goes into effect on August 1, 2024 [at 12:00 am ET], dogs that have spent the prior six months only in dog rabies-free or low-risk rabies countries will be able to enter the United States with a CDC Import Form online submission receipt as acceptable documentation. This form can be filled out the day of travel and the receipt can be shown to airlines and border officials as a printed copy or by phone. The receipt will be good for travel into the U.S. for six months from the date of issuance, including multiple entries. All dogs entering the United States must have a microchip and be over six months of age.

Additional documents and requirements will still be in effect for dogs coming from high-risk countries.  For more information and updates visit: www.cdc.gov/dogtravel.