New Rules for Crossing the US Border with your Dog

If you’re planning on crossing into the United States with your dog - by land, sea or air - you may have heard the American rules changed August 1st. 

The following applies IF your dog has been in a low-risk country for rabies the past six months, AND has a current rabies vaccination.

This scenario will apply to most Canadians - meaning your dog has a current rabies shot, and in the past 6 months, has not left Canada to go to (or is from) a high-risk country for rabies.

Here are the new CDC rules for crossing into the USA with your dog: 

https://www.cdc.gov/importation/dogs/rabies-free-low-risk-countries.html 

1) You will need to complete this CDC import form for each dog, only once every six months.

You can complete the form just before you cross the border, even. There is no cost.

2) Print the receipt or have it ready on your phone for the US Customs and Border Patrol agent.

Here is the CDC import form link:

Animal Importation Form (workflowcloud.com)

The CDC's form instructions link is here: 

https://www.cdc.gov/importation/media/pdfs/2024/07/Dog-Import-Form-Instructions_-Low-risk.pdf 

You do not need to have a vet sign off on any government forms now regarding the rabies vaccination.

Other new US border requirements:

3) Your dog must be in good health upon arrival at the border.

4) Your dog must be over six months in age.

5) Your dog must have a universally readable microchip.

Your vet can scan for the microchip number.

Your dog may have been microchipped as a puppy by the breeder or the shelter, or when spayed or neutered.

These new rules are subject to change of course - but as it stands, they are so much more relaxed than first announced! 

This CDC link has plain English explanations, and answers to frequently asked questions:

Frequently Asked Questions on Dog Importations | Importation | CDC

Our veterinarian office is also happy to answer your questions, or to book your dog in before your next flight or trip across the border. Peninsula Crossing Animal Hospital is conveniently located in the White Rock / South Surrey area.

Our phone number is 604-541-7374. Or send us a message via the form below!

This CDC information is current as of August 1, 2024.