New Dog Import Regulations in the U.S.

Laredo, Texas – Management from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the Laredo Field Office is informing the public about a new regulation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) concerning the importation of dogs, which will take effect nationally on August 1. Those planning to travel internationally with dogs should prepare accordingly.

“As summer travel intensifies, we want to alert the public about this new CDC requirement affecting dog importation. This will help travelers make necessary arrangements,” said Donald Kusser, Director of Field Operations at the Laredo Field Office. “While it’s a new requirement from the CDC, it is our CBP officers and agriculture specialists who will ensure compliance.”

Long-haul truck drivers often travel with pets, particularly dogs. The new regulations may influence those crossing the border. To help ensure that pet owners have the necessary documentation, the CDC and other agencies have developed various websites and mobile applications.

For general guidance, visit www.cdc.gov/dogtravel. The CBP encourages the public to use the CDC’s new DogBot tool, which outlines regulations applicable to dogs based on travel dates and the dog’s origin.

Requirements Starting August 1

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the following criteria must be met for dogs entering or returning to the United States:

• All dogs must comply with the CDC’s updated requirements.
• Dogs should be at least six months old.
• Dogs must have an approved microchip.
• Dogs should appear healthy upon arrival.
• Additional documentation may be required based on the dog’s location during the last six months and the status of its rabies vaccination.

The USDA collaborates with the CDC to safeguard the health of both people and animals. Under the CDC’s guidelines, USDA-accredited veterinarians will verify documentation affirming the health and history of traveling dogs, which will be reviewed by USDA officials to ensure compliance with the requirements.

Streamlining the Entry Process

For more detailed information, refer to What your Dog Needs to Enter the United States. According to the CBP, these new regulations aim to expedite and standardize processing at entry points by ensuring paperwork is gathered in advance. Travelers can also utilize the CBP One mobile app to declare pets prior to arriving at the port of entry, which may accelerate their clearance with CBP upon arrival.