At a glance
If you are bringing a dog to the U.S. with a dog, starting on August 1, 2024, there are new steps you need to take. These steps depend on where your dog has been in the past 6 months.
Background
CDC strives to protect America’s families, communities, and pets by preventing the reintroduction of dog rabies into the United States. Preventing infected dogs from entering the United States is a public health priority. CDC recommends all dogs be vaccinated against dog rabies.
Recent Changes
CDC values the feedback received from various countries, industry partners, and the public. CDC simplified the process for meeting requirements for dogs arriving from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries. This means that for dogs that have been only in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries for the last 6 months, the one form you will need is the CDC Dog Import Form, which should take a few minutes to complete.
What do I need to bring a dog into the United States?
Starting on August 1, 2024, requirements are based on your dog’s situation.
Important:
Dogs that have been only in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries for the last 6 months:
Dogs that have been in any high-risk countries in the last 6 months:
- Entry Requirements for U.S.-Vaccinated Dogs from High-risk Countries
- Entry Requirements for Foreign-Vaccinated Dogs from High-risk Countries
If your dog is not vaccinated against rabies and has been in a high-risk country for dog rabies in the past 6 months, your dog will NOT be allowed to enter the U.S.
Dogs arriving to the U.S. before August 1, 2024
You must follow CDC’s dog importation requirements*, or your dog will not be allowed to enter the United States.
*In addition, you must comply with U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) and your U.S. destination’s regulations. Please be aware that dogs imported for commercial (resale) purposes have additional requirements from USDA.