A Pet Owner’s Guide to the Updated CDC’s United States Import Requirements for Dogs and Cats
Calling all globetrotting pet parents. The United States updated pet import rules effective August 1, 2024, with a transition period through July 31, 2025. These changes are meant to keep travel safe and rabies free while making most moves easier. At PetRelocation, we have brought thousands of pets home to the US and we are ready to guide you through the update.
The updates focus on stronger documentation and rabies protection.
- Designated Ports for High Risk Countries: Foreign vaccinated dogs that have been in a high risk rabies country within the last 6 months must enter at one of six airports with CDC registered Animal Care Facilities. Reservations are required for exams and possible revaccination. Current facilities include ATL (Dandie Scottie Kennel), LAX (Kennel Club LAX and Rue’s Kennels), MIA (Pet Limo), JFK (The ARK Pet Oasis), IAD (Pender Pet Retreat), and PHL (Gateway Animal Care Center).
- CDC Dog Import Form: Required for every dog. Submit online in advance. The receipt is valid for six months as long as the departure country stays the same.
- Rabies Vaccination Certification: CDC now requires specific forms. Vets complete either the US or Foreign Certification form. USDA endorsement is required for US issued forms when returning from a high risk country.
- Import Permits: Not required for personal pets. Only commercial or resale dogs need a USDA APHIS permit.
LET'S GET PACKING: A STEP BY STEP GUIDE
Pre Departure Prep (start early)
- Vaccinations: Rabies is required for all dogs. It must be given after microchip implant and the dog must be at least 6 months old. Other common vaccines are recommended.
- Certification Form: Work with your vet to complete the correct CDC form.
- Health Check: Most requirements are built into the CDC forms.
- ACF Reservation: Required for foreign vaccinated dogs coming from high risk countries.
Shortly Before Takeoff
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Submit the CDC Dog Import Form and bring the receipt.
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Confirm you have the certification form, microchip proof, and any ACF details needed.
CURRENT ENTRY SCENARIOS
Scenario 1 – US Vaccinated Dog
- Any airport is allowed.
- Dog is 6 months or older and microchipped.
- CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
- Certification of US Issued Rabies Vaccination. USDA endorsed export certificates are accepted only if issued on or before July 31, 2025.
Scenario 2 – Foreign Vaccinated Dog from Low Risk or Rabies Free Country
- Any airport is allowed.
- Dog is 6 months or older and microchipped.
- CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
- Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip or the DMRVV free or low risk certification.
Scenario 3 – Foreign Vaccinated Dog that Has Been in a High Risk Country
- Must use one of the six ACF airports and book in advance.
- Dog is 6 months or older and microchipped.
- CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
- Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form completed by the vet.
Option A (recommended): Valid rabies titer from a CDC approved lab. This allows exam and a US rabies booster at the ACF with same day release in most cases.
Option B: No titer or results not available. Dog will need an exam, booster, and a mandatory 28 day quarantine at the ACF at owner cost.
KEEPING EVERYONE HEALTHY
- Rabies is the only federal focus for dogs. Cats have no federal rabies rule, but airlines and states may require vaccination.
- Quarantine exists only for foreign vaccinated high risk entries without a titer. No home quarantine is allowed.
- States may add their own rules. We check these for every move.
Useful Resources
Feeling overwhelmed? We have got your back. These rules are stricter on paper but easier day-to-day with the right partner. Contact us for a custom plan https://www.petrelocation.com/arrange