The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has implemented new rules regarding bringing a dog into the United States in order to prevent the spread of rabies. These rules were last updated in 1956, when far fewer dogs were entering the country from abroad. Today, about 1 million dogs enter the U.S. annually, prompting the need for updated regulations. Additional restrictions apply if the dog has been in countries where rabies is common, which can be found on the CDC website.
If you are bringing a dog into the U.S., whether returning from a trip overseas with your pet, visiting, or adopting a dog from abroad, you must adhere to the new rules set by the CDC. The regulations require the dog to be healthy and at least 6 months old upon arrival in the U.S. The dog must also have a microchip implanted under their skin containing identifier information, as well as a CDC import form filled out in advance with a photo of the animal. If the dog has been in a high-risk country in the past six months, proof of rabies vaccination is required.
For dogs vaccinated in the U.S., a certificate endorsed by the Agriculture Department is necessary. For dogs vaccinated outside the U.S., a certificate of vaccination must be provided along with a blood test, and the animal must be examined at a CDC-registered facility upon arrival in the U.S. These measures are intended to protect against the spread of rabies and ensure the health and safety of both pets and humans. The new rules are set to go into effect on August 1, with a checklist available on the CDC website to assist with compliance.
The CDC’s updated rules surrounding bringing a dog into the U.S. are crucial in light of the increasing number of dogs entering the country each year. These regulations aim to prevent the spread of rabies, particularly in cases where a dog has been in countries where the disease is prevalent. By implementing requirements such as a microchip, CDC import form, proof of vaccination, and certification endorsed by the Agriculture Department, officials are working to safeguard public health and the well-being of animals.
As part of the new rules, dogs must have a microchip implanted under their skin for identification purposes, and owners must complete a CDC import form in advance. If the dog has been in a high-risk country in the past six months, proof of rabies vaccination is mandatory. For dogs vaccinated in the U.S., an Agriculture Department endorsed certificate is required, while dogs vaccinated outside the U.S. must provide a certificate of vaccination, undergo a blood test, and be examined at a CDC-registered facility upon arrival in the U.S. Compliance with these guidelines is essential to ensure the safety and security of all involved.
In conclusion, the CDC’s updated rules for bringing a dog into the U.S. are a necessary step in protecting against the spread of rabies and ensuring the health of both pets and humans. With approximately 1 million dogs entering the country annually, it is important to have stringent regulations in place. By following the outlined requirements, including microchipping, vaccination, and proper certification, dog owners can help to prevent the transmission of rabies and maintain a safe environment for all. The checklist provided by the CDC offers guidance for those looking to bring a dog into the U.S. and should be consulted to ensure compliance with the new regulations coming into effect on August 1.
