Bringing a Foreign Dog into the United States: Understanding the Changes in 2024

In recent years, the process of bringing a foreign dog into the United States has seen some significant changes. We were able to bring our beagle Sniffy back into the U.S. from Canada luckily before these changes were enacted in 2024. Whether you’re a dog owner moving to the U.S. or planning to travel with your pet like is, understanding the latest requirements and regulations is essential to ensure a smooth entry for your furry friend.

In this post, we will explore the latest changes regarding bringing a foreign dog into the U.S., highlighting key updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), including rabies vaccination requirements, quarantine rules, and other essential documentation.

Key Changes in Bringing Dogs into the U.S.

Recent updates focus on protecting U.S. residents from diseases like rabies and safeguarding animal welfare. Here are the most significant changes:

• Updated Rabies Vaccination Requirements
  Rabies is a top concern when importing dogs, especially from countries with a high incidence of the disease. As of July 14, 2021, the CDC introduced temporary restrictions on dogs from certain rabies high-risk countries. Dogs entering the U.S. from these countries must meet strict requirements. Some of the key points include:
  • Only dogs that have been vaccinated against rabies and can provide valid proof are allowed entry.
  • The rabies vaccine must be administered by a licensed veterinarian.
  • The vaccine must be administered at least 30 days before entry into the U.S. for the first time, with no exceptions.
  • Puppies under 6 months of age are generally not allowed to enter from high-risk countries due to their inability to receive a rabies vaccine at a younger age.
• CDC Dog Import Permit
  The CDC has implemented a new system requiring dogs coming from high-risk rabies countries to obtain a Dog Import Permit. This permit must be applied for at least 30 business days before the planned travel date. Without this permit, dogs will not be allowed to enter the U.S. Additionally, dogs entering without this permit may face refusal at the port of entry and possible return to their country of origin.
• Temporary Suspension on Dog Imports from High-Risk Countries
  As part of the July 2021 changes, the U.S. temporarily suspended the importation of dogs from over 100 countries classified as high-risk for rabies. This suspension affects dogs from countries such as Russia, China, Egypt, and many others in Africa and Asia. This ban is in place to control the reintroduction of rabies, which has been eliminated in domestic dogs in the U.S. since 2007.
• Dogs from Non-High-Risk Rabies Countries
  If you’re bringing a dog from a non-high-risk rabies country, the process is more straightforward but still requires specific documentation. You will need to:
  • Present a rabies vaccination certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian.
  • Ensure that the dog is vaccinated at least 30 days prior to arrival in the U.S.
  • Provide proof of age for puppies under 4 months old, as they are not required to have a rabies vaccination but must be confined until they are of age to receive the vaccine.

Other Required Documentation

In addition to rabies vaccination certificates and permits, other essential documents may be required depending on the specific circumstances. These include:

• Health Certificate
  The USDA may require an International Health Certificate to verify that your dog is healthy and free of any communicable diseases. The certificate should be issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel and meet the import requirements set by the U.S.
• Microchip
  While not always required, it’s recommended that your dog is microchipped, especially when importing from international locations. Some airlines and importation points require dogs to be microchipped for identification purposes. The microchip number should also be included in the health certificate.
• Quarantine Requirements
  Although quarantine is not mandatory for most dogs, it can be required for certain animals, especially those that are not up to date with rabies vaccinations or other required treatments. If a dog arrives without the proper paperwork or from a high-risk country, it may be quarantined until it can receive the required vaccinations and treatments. In certain cases, dogs may be refused entry.

Airline-Specific Requirements

Each airline has its own specific policies regarding pet travel, so you should always check with your airline for up-to-date information. Some airlines may have stricter guidelines than the federal regulations, including crate dimensions, weight restrictions, and breed limitations. Always confirm if they accept dogs and what their specific requirements are for both domestic and international flights.

For dogs flying in the cabin or as cargo, airlines usually require:

• Proper kennel size and ventilation
• Food and water dishes attached to the kennel
• A microchip for identification
• Visible and clear labeling of the kennel with the owner’s contact details

Exemptions and Special Considerations

Some exemptions may apply to service dogs and guide dogs. For example, service dogs traveling with their owner may be subject to different rules or expedited entry. However, the CDC’s rabies vaccination and import permit rules still apply to service dogs from high-risk countries. If you are traveling with a service dog, make sure to contact both the CDC and your airline ahead of time to confirm the process.

How to Apply for a CDC Dog Import Permit

If you are importing a dog from a high-risk country, here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for the CDC Dog Import Permit:

• Step 1: Ensure your dog is vaccinated against rabies and the vaccine was administered by a licensed veterinarian.
• Step 2: Gather all required documentation, including vaccination records, health certificates, and proof of microchipping.
• Step 3: Visit the CDC website and complete the application for a Dog Import Permit at least 30 business days before your travel date.
• Step 4: Submit your application along with all necessary documents and wait for approval from the CDC.
• Step 5: Upon approval, ensure you bring the permit, vaccination certificates, and all other documentation with you during travel.

What Happens if You Arrive Without Proper Documentation?

If you attempt to bring a dog into the U.S. without the required permits or documentation, your dog may be denied entry. In many cases, dogs arriving without the proper paperwork may be sent back to their country of origin, which could lead to additional travel costs and stress for both you and your pet.

Furthermore, importing a dog without meeting the U.S. requirements can result in fines or other legal consequences. Always ensure that you are following the latest rules to avoid these issues.

The recent changes to bringing a foreign dog into the United States reflect the country’s continued efforts to protect both public health and the safety of pets. Whether you are relocating with your dog or simply visiting the U.S., keeping up to date with these new regulations will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry. By staying informed and prepared, you can avoid the disappointment of having your pet denied entry at the border and guarantee that your beloved companion can enjoy their time in the United States by your side.