New Rules for Bringing Your Dog Into the U.S.
Friends and Neighbors,
Starting August 1st, 2024, the CDC has implemented new rules for bringing dogs into the U.S. There are new steps you need to take depending on where your dog has been in the past 6 months.These regulations are designed to prevent the spread of rabies and ensure the health and safety of all animals.
Key Requirements:
Health Check: Dogs must appear healthy upon arrival.
Age Restriction: Dogs must be at least six months old.
Microchipping: All dogs must be microchipped.
Additional Documentation:
Anyone traveling with a dog must provide proper travel documents and health records. Dogs that have been only in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries for the last 6 months, will need to complete the CDC Dog Import Form. There are specific criteria based on the dog's travel history over the past six months and vaccination status.
Travel Types:
These rules apply to all forms of international travel - flights, driving, and cruises. Travelers who don't comply may be denied boarding.
Detailed Requirements for High-Risk Countries:
For dogs coming from countries with a high risk of rabies (approximately 110 countries), the entry requirements are more strict. However, there are still specific rules for dogs coming from low-risk or rabies-free countries.
Before traveling with your pet:
Please visit the USDA APHIS Pet Travel Export website to obtain specific requirements from the government of your destination. Some destinations require several months of planning.
Obtain specific instructions from your airline or travel service.
Please visit the USDA APHIS Pet Travel Import website and the CDC website to obtain specific requirements for returning to the United States."
FAQ’s
What were the previous regulations?
Previously, dogs traveling from low-risk countries did not require additional documentation and could enter the U.S. at any airport. For high-risk countries, dogs needed proof of U.S.-issued rabies vaccination or a CDC Dog Import Permit, along with a serologic titer test and booster.
Why has the CDC changed the rules?
The CDC has tightened regulations due to an increase in falsified documents, including fake rabies vaccination records. In 2020, there was a 52% increase in dogs being denied entry due to fraudulent paperwork compared to previous years.
Which airports have CDC-approved animal-care facilities?
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Los Angeles International Airport
Miami International Airport
John F. Kennedy International Airport (New York)
Washington Dulles International Airport
Philadelphia International Airport
When should the import form be submitted?
Submit the form a few days before your trip for safety, although it can be done on the day of departure. Expect an emailed receipt within 15 minutes. Show this form to the gate agent before boarding and to CBP upon entry.
Are there special rules for service dogs?
Service dogs must follow the same rules as other dogs, with one exception. If vaccinated in a high-risk country and traveling by sea, they can enter any U.S. port without needing to visit an animal-care facility.
How are airlines responding to the new rule?
Some airlines like United and Delta continue to fly pets under their existing policies, while others have introduced new guidelines. It's best to check with your airline for the latest.
We hope you find these tips useful and that they help keep your dogs safe. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have. We’re always here for you and your pets!
Sincerely,
The BLVD Team