Following their initial announcement regarding the importation regulation of dogs coming to the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released some updates to provide “greater flexibility” to the requirements.
The following “clarified and simplified” processes apply to travelers with dogs being brought to the U.S. from rabies-free and low-risk dog rabies countries starting Aug. 1, 2024:
- Dogs that have spent the last 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.The CDC has reiterated additional documentation and requirements still apply to dogs from countries that are high-risk for dog rabies.
For more information, visit the CDC website.