Heading South of the Border With Your Dog? US Entry Requirements for Dogs Have Changed!
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its regulations on dog importation and travel into the United States to prevent the spread of rabies and other infectious diseases. These changes have had significant impacts on Canadian travelers who regularly visit the United States with their pets. This article will explore the evolution of these regulations, the specific requirements for bringing dogs into the USA from Canada, and the implications for Canadian visitors.
Evolution of Regulations
Previous Regulations:
Historically, the regulations for importing dogs into the USA from Canada were relatively straightforward. Given the low risk of rabies in Canada, travelers could bring their dogs across the border with minimal documentation, primarily requiring proof of rabies vaccination.
Current Regulations:
The CDC has now implemented stricter requirements to ensure better control and prevention of rabies reintroduction. Although Canada is considered a low-risk country for rabies, these new measures still affect Canadian travelers due to enhanced scrutiny and procedural changes.
Key Requirements for Dog Importation
CDC Import Form:
The most important change to be aware of is that dogs entering the United States from Canada must now be accompanied by a completed CDC import form, which is filled out by the owner or importer. This form is essential to ensure that all necessary information regarding the dog's health, origin, destination, and ownership status is documented.
Microchip Requirement:
Permanent and reliable identification of pet animals is a priority for US regulators. An ISO-compatible microchip, which meets the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards, typically a 15-digit, non-encrypted microchip, is now required for proper identification. This low-cost device is easy to implant during a visit to your veterinarian’s office. Not only does it enable entry into the United States and many other countries, but it also helps to ensure that a dog can be reunited with its family if lost.
Rabies Vaccination Certificate:
This document is no longer listed by the CDC as a requirement for entry. Nevertheless, many individual states and municipalities require proof of current rabies vaccination for all visiting dogs. It’s best to keep a copy of your dog’s vaccine certificate with you wherever you travel. In most cases, dogs should be vaccinated against rabies for the first time at least 28 days before arrival, and boosters must be kept up-to-date. Puppies younger than 4 months old are too young for a Rabies vaccine, and may be subject to different requirements. A vaccination certificate should include:
- The dog’s breed, sex, age, color, and markings.
- The date of rabies vaccination and its expiration.
- The name and address of the owner.
- The contact information of the veterinarian who administered the vaccination.
Inspection Upon Entry:
Upon arrival in the United States, dogs may be subject to inspection by CDC or Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. These inspections ensure that all documentation is in order and that the dog shows no signs of illness.
Remember, border protection officers can refuse you or your dog entry for any reason, even if your documents are in order. It’s always best to remain polite and cooperative during the entry process, whether you arrive by land, air, or water. Make sure you have a backup plan in case you or your pet are turned back at a border crossing.
Cross-Border Care:
Some pet parents who live near the US border depend on American veterinarians or veterinary specialists for some or all of their dogs’ care. While a US vet may be a more convenient care provider in some cases, it is always wise to maintain a relationship with a domestic veterinarian. Your pet’s illness may be a reason for denied entry, and other factors (national security threats, pandemic restrictions, lines) can also interfere with your ability to cross the border for timely care. Be sure to register with a Canadian provider to ensure continuity of accessible care, and know how your local emergency clinic works, and who they serve.
Special Considerations for Dogs from High-Risk Countries
High-Risk Country Criteria:
Dogs that have visited or been imported into Canada from countries classified as high-risk for rabies within the past six months may face additional restrictions. According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), these dogs might not be permitted to enter the United States. This measure aims to prevent the potential introduction of rabies from high-risk regions.
Impact on Canadian Travelers
These regulatory changes have several implications for Canadian visitors:
- New Documentation and Identification Requirements: Travelers must ensure they have all the necessary documentation, including a microchip number and the completed CDC import form. This can be burdensome for frequent travelers and truckers who cross the border regularly with their pets.
- Delays at Border Crossings: Increased inspections and documentation requirements can lead to delays at border crossings. This is particularly problematic for truckers who travel with their pets, and who rely on timely crossings to maintain their schedules.
- Compliance Costs: There may be additional costs associated with complying with the new regulations, such as obtaining the necessary documentation and ensuring vaccinations are current.
- Uncertainty and Planning: The new regulations require travelers to be more proactive in planning their trips, ensuring that all documentation is in order to avoid being denied entry or facing quarantine procedures.
Summary
The recent changes to dog import regulations by the CDC have introduced new challenges for Canadian travelers. While the primary aim is to safeguard public health, these regulations necessitate increased preparation and vigilance on the part of pet owners. Ensuring compliance with these regulations can help mitigate delays and additional costs associated with cross-border travel.