Planning a trip to the USA with your furry friend? At Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic, we’re here to help you navigate the updated travel requirements so you and your pup can have a smooth journey! North Vancouver Vet
Recent Changes Starting August 1, 2024, the CDC has made it easier for dogs traveling from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries to enter the United States. No more complicated paperwork – just one simple form!
Required Documentation
CDC Dog Import Form: The only document you need if your dog has been in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries in the past 6 months. North Vancouver Vet
How to Determine If Your Country Is Low-Risk
Check the CDC Website: Only high-risk countries are listed. If a country isn’t listed, it’s considered dog rabies-free or low-risk. Easy peasy!
Filling Out the CDC Dog Import Form
Availability: The form is available here. (Just a click away!)
Instructions: Detailed, step-by-step instructions are provided on the website.
Validity: The form’s receipt is valid for 6 months, unless your dog travels to a high-risk country during that time.
Multiple Uses: You can use the receipt for multiple entries into the U.S. within the validity period.
Completion: The form should be filled out by the person bringing the dog into the U.S. (That’s you, pet parent!)
Cost: Free. (We love that word!)
One Form per Dog: Each dog needs their own form. If you have a pack, you’ll need to complete a form for each one.
Timing: You can fill out the form up to six months before travel or even on the day of travel. We recommend doing it a few days ahead just to be safe.
Additional Requirements
Health: Your dog must appear healthy upon arrival. (No sniffles, please!)
Age: Your pup must be at least 6 months old at the time of entry.
Microchip: Your dog must have a microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner. (Think of it as your dog’s VIP pass!)
Please refer to the CDC website for details
At Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic, we know that your pets are family. That’s why we want to make sure you have all the info you need to travel with them stress-free. Whether you’re planning a quick trip or a long stay, our team is here to help with all your travel prep needs. North Vancouver Vet
A Little Travel Tip from Us
Make sure your dog is comfortable and familiar with their travel crate or carrier before the trip. A few practice runs can go a long way!
Keep their favorite toy or blanket with them for a sense of comfort and familiarity. North Vancouver Vet
While these new requirements simplify entry into the USA, we recommend you still bring a valid rabies vaccination certificate for your dog (especially for your return to Canada). This helps ensure a smooth re-entry and avoids any unexpected hiccups.
North Vancouver Vet
Bon voyage and safe travels from all of us at Lonsdale Place Veterinary Clinic! If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to give us a call or drop by the clinic. We’re always here to help you and your furry friends! North Vancouver Vet