The United States has implemented new rules for dogs entering the country to prevent the spread of rabies. All dogs coming in from other countries must be at least 6 months old and have a microchip for verification of rabies vaccination. The regulations apply to dogs brought in by breeders, rescue groups, and pets travelling with their owners. The updated rules take effect on August 1, replacing a temporary 2021 order that suspended imports from over 100 countries where rabies is still prevalent.
The new regulations address the changing landscape of international pet travel, as more people bring their pets with them and as rescue groups and breeders set up overseas operations. The regulations also aim to prevent the entry of rabid dogs into the U.S. Four rabid dogs have been identified entering the country since 2015, raising concerns about incomplete or fraudulent vaccination certificates and underage puppies being denied entry. Rabies is a fatal disease that is most commonly transmitted through bites from infected animals, and there is no cure once symptoms begin to show.
The updated regulations require dogs to be old enough to be vaccinated, have a microchip inserted for verification purposes, and complete a new CDC import form. Additional restrictions and requirements may apply depending on where the dog has been in the previous six months, including blood testing from CDC-approved labs. The CDC regulations were last updated in 1956, and officials believe the new rules are necessary to address the current challenges in international pet travel.
Some stakeholders, such as Angela Passman of a Dallas-based pet moving company, support the new regulations as they believe it is a necessary step to ensure the safety of pets entering the U.S. However, Jennifer Skiff of Animal Wellness Action believes that some of the changes are unwarranted and too costly. Skiff highlights the challenges faced by diplomats and military personnel trying to meet the requirements, resulting in some owners being forced to leave their dogs behind. Despite differing opinions, the new regulations aim to strike a balance between safety and convenience for pet owners bringing their dogs into the country.
In conclusion, the updated regulations for dogs entering the U.S. from other countries are designed to prevent the spread of rabies and ensure the safety of pets and the general public. The rules apply to all dogs brought in by breeders, rescue groups, and individual owners. While some stakeholders support the new regulations as a necessary step, others believe that certain changes are unwarranted and too costly. Nevertheless, the regulations are set to take effect on August 1 and will require dogs to be at least 6 months old, have a microchip for verification purposes, and complete a new CDC import form. Additional restrictions and requirements may apply depending on the dog’s previous whereabouts.
