Hey pet parents ,
Just a heads up about some new rules from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) that are coming into effect on August 1st, 2024 for furry friends traveling to the U.S. These requirements are designed to keep both our pets and our communities safe!
Here's a quick rundown of the changes:
- Age: Your pup must be at least 6 months old to enter the U.S.
- Microchip: All dogs need an ISO-compatible microchip implanted before any rabies vaccinations. Make sure the microchip number is on all your dog's paperwork!
- 🩺 Healthy as a Horse: Your dog should be in good health and free from contagious diseases to enter the U.S. If they seem unwell upon arrival, they may need to be examined or quarantined at your expense.
- CDC Dog Import Form: Every dog needs a completed CDC Dog Import Form receipt. The ideal time to fill this out online is 2-10 days before your trip, but you can also do it right before if you have internet access Link to CDC Dog Import Form. Important! If anything changes with your travel plans, you'll need to submit a new form.
- ⚠️ Additional Paperwork: This will depend on where your dog has been in the last 6 months and their rabies vaccination status.
Special Considerations for Our Canadian Companions:
The good news is that Canada is considered a "low-risk" country for rabies, so unvaccinated dogs can still enter the U.S. (as long as they haven't traveled to certain countries recently). However, they will still need the required paperwork and microchip. Heads up! Without a rabies vaccination, this entry permission is only valid for a single 30-day visit to the U.S. Vaccinated pups get much longer stays and multiple entries!
What You Can Do Now:
- Check the Requirements: Use the CDC's handy "DogBot" tool to see the exact rules for your dog: Link to CDC Dogbot
- Talk to Your Vet: Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations, has a microchip, and gets any necessary examinations.
By following these new guidelines, we can ensure a smooth and safe travel experience for our furry best friends ✈️