The CDC has updated the requirements for bringing dogs into the US. You can find their statement on their website and join the discussion on their Facebook post here.
Here are the key points:
Dogs must be at least 6 months old
Dogs must be microchipped
Dogs need health records, including a vet exam
An import form must be submitted to the CDC with a photo of the dog (at least 10 days prior for dogs under 1 year old)
Dogs must have a current rabies vaccination
Why this matters to you:
Most of our community lives in North America. Many people, especially those in the northern US, consider Canadian ethical breeders. This change means puppies under 6 months old won’t be allowed to cross the border.
If you are traveling with your dog and crossing the border, you’ll need to know these rules for entering the US.
This will also affect those participating in international dog shows and sports competitions.
We’ve created this megathread for discussions on the new information. Please keep the conversation civil, as there are likely both pros and cons to these changes.
The CDC has updated the requirements for bringing dogs into the United States, effective August 1, 2024. All dogs entering the US must now be at least 6 months old, microchipped, and vaccinated against rabies. This is to address the risk of rabies, which is over 99% fatal but 100% preventable. The previous regulations from 1956 did not account for the increase in international pet travel and overseas rescue operations, with around 1 million dogs entering the US annually. The new rules aim to standardize the importation process, require proper documentation, and prevent the reintroduction of dog rabies to the US, which was eliminated in 2007. While these new requirements may create more work for pet owners, they are ultimately a positive step to protect public health and animal safety.
Since puppies receive their rabies immunization at 14 weeks of age, I find the age restriction to be incomprehensible. We bought Cha-Cha last summer from a Canadian breeder. Her health exam and documentation of her rabies immunization were required for us to cross the border. I simply don’t understand.