Big changes are coming for Canadians travelling with their pets. The United States Centre for Disease Control has released new rules for Canadians travelling across the border with their dog. As of August 1, 2024, you must provide documented proof that your dog has received an up-to-date rabies vaccination. The CDC says that the purpose of the new rules is to control the spread of rabies.
Pet parents should be prepared to submit documentation 10 days in advance to the CDC. Here’s what you need to know if you are travelling to the U.S. with your dog:
- Your dog must be at least 6 months old
- Your dog must appear to be healthy
- Your dog must be microchipped. The microchip must be ISO-compliant so that it can be scanned by a universal scanner
- Your dog must be fully vaccinated and accompanied by documents or veterinary confirmation of vaccination
- Your dog must be accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. Canada is a low-risk country for rabies, so this receipt can be used multiple times for entry into the United States and is valid for 6 months.
Note that there are some tricky variables involved in this process. For help with navigating the new rules, log in to the CDC’s new app called the Dog Bot or visit their website. You can also contact the CDC for more information at (800) 232-4636. Regarding the CDC Dog Import Form, there are step-by-step instructions on the CDC website for how to fill it out, including an example of an acceptable identification photo for your dog. The information you will need to fill out the form includes info about yourself, the dog, and the nature of your travel.
To fill out the CDC Dog Import Form, complete it online and then the CDC will email you a receipt. You must be in possession of this receipt at the time of travel. If the dog is traveling by air you must present the receipt to the airline before boarding the aircraft. Regardless of your mode of transportation, you must also be prepared to present this receipt to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection when the dog arrives in the United States.
If your dog has been to countries that are at higher risk for rabies in the last 6 months prior to travel into the U.S., it's important to note that you will need additional information to complete the import form and possibly additional documentation to enter the country. Be sure to check the CDC website for the rules that apply to your situation.
Happy traveling, pet parents! We hope this information will help you to have a paws-itively safe trip with your furry travel companion. Not sure if your dog needs a travel crate or which one to buy? Head on over to any Petland Canada location and our knowledgeable staff will be glad to help.
