CDC Sets New Rules for Bringing Dogs into the U.S.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has set new rules for bringing dogs into the United States. 

Starting Aug. 1, 2024, dogs traveling into the U.S., including those returning from a trip, will need to be at least six months old, microchipped, appear healthy, and have proof of a valid rabies vaccine. They also must not have been in a country where rabies is endemic in the past six months. The CDC has a list of high-risk countries on its website. 

“The primary objective in publishing this rule is to protect the U.S. population from diseases of public health concern that can spread from dogs to people, including dog rabies, and to prevent fraudulent dog imports,” a CDC spokesperson told TMR. “Dog rabies is a deadly disease that has been eliminated from the United States for 17 years. These measures are designed to allow for continued dog importation while minimizing health risks.” 

Travelers should utilize the CDC website’s DogBot, where they can enter information about their dog, to find out what rules apply to them. This tool will also outline what documents a traveler needs to enter the country with their dog. 

Additionally, travelers should check with their airlines to see how the new rules have impacted their dog policies. Due to the rule, some airlines will not allow dogs to travel in-cabin, but rather as cargo or baggage.