Last Updated on July 17, 2024 by Dr. Wendy Wilkins, DVM, PhD
Starting August 1, 2024, new regulations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will impact Canadian pet owners traveling to the United States with their dogs.
These changes are significant and aim to enhance public health safety by ensuring that all dogs entering the U.S. are adequately protected against rabies and can be easily identified.
Here’s what Canadian pet owners need to know to ensure smooth travel with their canine companions.
Key Changes and Requirements
1. Age Requirement:
- All dogs entering the U.S. must be at least six months old. This age requirement ensures that the dogs have reached an age where they can receive an effective rabies vaccination.
2. Microchip Identification:
- Dogs must have an International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compliant or universally readable microchip. The importance of a universally readable microchip cannot be overstated. This microchip will allow U.S. authorities to quickly and accurately identify the dog, ensuring that its health records are accessible.
3. CDC Dog Import Form:
- Pet owners must complete and submit the CDC Dog Import Form via the CDC website before travel. A receipt of this submission is required for each dog and every entry into the U.S. This step ensures that all necessary information is documented and available to border officials.
4. Health Appearance:
- Dogs must appear healthy upon arrival. This requirement emphasizes the need for regular veterinary check-ups and care, ensuring that only healthy dogs travel internationally.
5. Export Document:
- An export document signed by a Canadian licensed veterinarian is mandatory. This document serves as an official record that the dog meets all health requirements, including up-to-date rabies vaccinations.
Rabies Vaccination Specifics
Vaccinated in Canada:
- Dogs vaccinated against rabies in Canada must not have visited any high-risk countries for dog rabies in the past six months. If they have, they must wait six months in Canada before entering the U.S. or enter the U.S. directly from the high-risk country. This measure aims to prevent the introduction of rabies from regions where the disease is prevalent.
Vaccinated in a Low-Risk Country:
- Dogs vaccinated in a rabies-free or low-risk country other than Canada must either be re-vaccinated in Canada and wait six months before traveling or enter the U.S. from the country where they were vaccinated. This requirement ensures that the vaccination is recent and effective.
Responsibilities of Pet Owners and Veterinarians
For Pet Owners:
- Ensure your dog is at least six months old.
- Check that your dog’s microchip is ISO-compliant or universally readable. If unsure, contact the microchip manufacturer or consider purchasing a universal microchip scanner.
- Complete and submit the CDC Dog Import Form and retain the receipt.
- Obtain the necessary export document from a Canadian licensed veterinarian.
- Ensure your dog appears healthy and has regular veterinary check-ups.
For Veterinarians:
- Thoroughly read and follow the instructions provided in the export documents.
- Verify all information, ensuring it matches the dog’s veterinary records.
- Complete the documents in English, making corrections by crossing out and initialing changes if necessary.
- Issue the export document on letter-sized paper and ensure all pages are completed and valid.
Potential Challenges and Solutions
Microchip Issues:
- If a dog’s microchip is not ISO-compliant and cannot be read by a universal scanner, the dog may be denied entry. To avoid this, pet owners should verify the microchip’s compliance and functionality well in advance.
Health Status:
- If a dog does not meet the CDC’s health requirements, it may be denied entry or subjected to additional testing at the owner’s expense. Maintaining regular veterinary care and ensuring all vaccinations are up to date can help mitigate this risk.
Documentation:
- Accurate and complete documentation is essential. Incomplete or incorrect forms can lead to travel delays or denial of entry. Pet owners should work closely with their veterinarians to ensure all paperwork is in order.
Conclusion
The upcoming changes in rabies vaccination and identification requirements for dogs entering the U.S. from Canada are designed to enhance safety and health protocols. While these regulations introduce additional steps for pet owners, careful preparation and adherence to the new rules will ensure a smooth travel experience.
By understanding and complying with these requirements, Canadian pet owners can continue to enjoy travel with their furry friends, knowing they are contributing to public health safety. For more detailed information, pet owners can visit the Canadian Food Inspection
