Heading to the USA? The rules have changed for all dogs entering the country as part of a United States effort to prevent rabies from re-entering the country. Beginning August 1, dogs entering or returning to the United States must meet new, specific requirements.
Plan ahead if you're heading to the United States of America.
While Canada is not on the CDC’s long list of countries at high risk of rabies, the new regulations will affect all dogs, including service animals.
Key information for you to know. Beginning August 1, 2024, all dogs entering the USA:
- Must have an implanted International Organization for Standardization (ISO) compatible microchip, which all CNIB Guide Dogs already have.
- Will require additional documentation, which varies depending on where the dog has been in the six months before entering or returning to the USA, or if the dog has a current rabies vaccine administered in the USA.
- Have a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. This new form should be filled out online and requires you to upload a clear photograph of the dog showing its face and body.
The CDC encourages people travelling with their dogs to use the CDC's new personalized question-and-answer tool, “DogBot,” on the CDC website to determine what rules apply to their dogs based on their travel dates, where their dog is travelling from and where their dog was vaccinated (if required).
For more detailed information, please visit www.cdc.gov/dogtravel or contact the CDC at 1-800-232-4636.