If you are embarking on international travel with your furry companion, you've probably already planned ahead to make sure the trip goes smoothly while you're abroad. But remember, you also want to arrange a smooth return back home.
To manage the risk of rabies infections, recent updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have entry requirements for dogs entering the United States of America, particularly dogs from countries that have a high-risk for rabies.
Basic Requirements
Basic Requirements
Age Restriction:
Dogs must be at least 6 months to enter the United States
Microchip:
Must have an ISO-compliant microchip implanted for identification PRIOR to the rabies vaccination
Valid Rabies Vaccination:
U.S. issued rabies vaccine administered after microchip implantation. Must be valid at the time of entry to the United States.
Waiting Period, if applicable:
For high-risk countries requiring a Certification of US Issued Rabies Vaccination Form
If the dog is receiving its first vaccine or booster after a lapse, the form must be completed 28 days after the vaccine was administered. The Form must be endorsed prior to leaving the United States.
Determine Destination Country Risk
Determine Destination Country Risk
High-Risk Countries vs. Low-Risk Countries
The CDC categorizes destinations as either low-risk countries or high-risk countries for rabies. The country of departure isn't the only thing that determines the rules you'll have to follow, rather where the dog has been during the 6 months prior to entry into the United States - that is what determines which entry requirements will be applied when re-entering the United States.
Destinations not on the list are considered rabies-free or low-risk countries.
CDC Dog Import Form (Low & High Risk)
CDC Dog Import Form (Low & High Risk)
Whether a low-risk or a high-risk country, this Form is required for ALL dogs entering the United States. Upon submission, a receipt is sent to the email address provided. This receipt must be kept on hand to be presented to airline personnel and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination Form (High Risk)
Certification of U.S.-issued Rabies Vaccination Form (High Risk)
This form must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and digitally endorsed by USDA before the dog leaves the United States.
This form is generated directly in VEHCS. It requires that the rabies certificates contain a Lot Expiration Number.
Important Note: If the dog is receiving its first vaccine or booster after a lapse, the form must be completed 28 days after the vaccine was administered.
Passpaw Task: Fulfill CDC Dog Import Regulations
This task will appear on all high-risk country canine applications as a reminder of the CDC requirements for re-entry into the United States. The client will also receive an email about this requirement requesting their acknowledgment.
