The CDC regulates dogs entering the United States, and as of August 1, 2024, all dogs—regardless of age, origin, or vaccination status—must meet new requirements. Cats and other pets have no CDC entry requirements, but they may face USDA or airline rules.
Why the CDC Regulates Pet Travel
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) restricts dog imports to prevent the reintroduction of dog rabies, which was eliminated in the U.S. in 2007. The agency also monitors for other diseases like brucellosis and screwworm. The 2024 rule change closed a loophole that allowed dogs from high-risk countries to enter via low-risk ones. The CDC’s authority comes from the Public Health Service Act, and its rules apply to all dogs, including service animals and puppies.
Who Must Follow These Rules
Every dog entering the U.S. must meet CDC requirements, but the specifics depend on where the dog was in the previous six months. The CDC divides countries into three categories:
- Dogs from rabies-free or low-risk countries (e.g., Canada, Mexico, most of Western Europe) need a CDC Dog Import Form, a microchip, and proof of rabies vaccination if the dog is over 6 months old.
- Dogs from high-risk countries (where dog rabies is present, including most of Africa, Asia, and parts of South America) must have a valid rabies vaccine, a CDC Dog Import Form, and a serologic titer test from an approved laboratory. They may also need to enter through a designated port with a CDC quarantine station.
- Dogs from countries with no rabies (like Australia, Japan, and the UK) have the simplest process: a CDC Dog Import Form and a microchip.
Step-by-Step Process for Bringing a Dog
- Microchip your dog with an ISO-compatible 15-digit chip. The chip must be implanted before the rabies vaccine.
- Get a rabies vaccine if your dog is over 6 months old. The vaccine must be given at least 28 days before arrival.
- Complete the CDC Dog Import Form online at the CDC’s website. You can submit it up to 10 days before arrival. You’ll receive a receipt with a confirmation number.
- If arriving from a high-risk country, arrange a titer test at a CDC-approved laboratory. The test must be done at least 30 days after the vaccine and within 6 months of travel.
- Fly into an approved U.S. airport with a CDC quarantine station: Anchorage, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New York, Newark, Philadelphia, San Francisco, San Juan, Seattle, or Washington D.C.
- Present your dog to a CDC quarantine officer at the airport. They will check your documents and may inspect the dog.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
The most frequent issue is incomplete paperwork. The CDC Dog Import Form must be filled out accurately—errors like a wrong microchip number or a misspelled name can cause delays. Another common problem is arriving at a non-designated airport with a dog from a high-risk country; the CDC may deny entry or require quarantine. Also, many travelers assume the rabies vaccine is enough, but the titer test is mandatory for high-risk countries. To avoid issues, check the CDC website at least 30 days before travel, and keep printed copies of all documents.
Costs and Timeline
Costs vary widely. The CDC Dog Import Form is free, but the microchip costs $20–$60, the rabies vaccine $20–$50, and a titer test $200–$400. Airline pet fees range from $100 to $500 each way. If quarantine is required, you’ll pay for boarding and vet care—often $500–$2,000. Start the process at least 3 months ahead if you’re coming from a high-risk country, because titer test results can take 4–6 weeks.
Cats and Other Pets
The CDC has no requirements for cats, ferrets, or other mammals entering the U.S., but the USDA regulates certain animals (e.g., monkeys, rabbits) and the airline may have its own health certificate rules. For cats, most airlines require a rabies vaccine certificate and a health certificate from a veterinarian issued within 10 days of travel. Always check with your airline and the USDA APHIS website for species-specific rules.
Template: CDC Dog Import Form Checklist
Use this checklist to organize your dog’s entry documents. Fill in the blanks with your dog’s information.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Microchip number | ___________________________ |
| Rabies vaccine date | ___________________________ |
| Rabies vaccine expiry | ___________________________ |
| Titer test date (if needed) | ___________________________ |
| CDC Import Form confirmation # | ___________________________ |
| Arrival airport | ___________________________ |
Sample (fictional): Microchip: 982000123456789; Rabies vaccine: 2025-03-15; Expiry: 2026-03-15; Titer test: 2025-04-20; Confirmation #: CDC123456; Airport: JFK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a CDC form for a puppy under 6 months?
Yes. Puppies under 6 months must have a microchip and a CDC Dog Import Form. They do not need a rabies vaccine, but they may be subject to additional restrictions if coming from a high-risk country—often they must enter through a designated port and may be quarantined until they are old enough to be vaccinated.
Can I bring my dog from Mexico without quarantine?
Yes, if your dog has been in Mexico for the past 6 months and meets the low-risk requirements: microchip, rabies vaccine (if over 6 months), and a valid CDC Import Form. No quarantine is needed, but you must arrive at an approved airport.
What happens if I don’t have the CDC form?
The CDC may deny your dog entry. The dog could be quarantined at your expense, returned to the country of origin, or in rare cases euthanized if it appears to have rabies. Always complete the form before travel.
Are service dogs exempt from CDC rules?
No. Service dogs must follow the same CDC requirements as all other dogs. However, they may be allowed in the cabin with you, but you still need the import form and other documents.
How long is the CDC Dog Import Form valid?
The form is valid for a single entry within 30 days of the date you submit it. If your travel plans change, you must submit a new form.
Alternatives and Exceptions
There is no alternative to the CDC rules for dogs—you cannot skip the process. However, if you are moving permanently, you might consider shipping your dog as cargo instead of in the cabin, which may have different airline requirements but still needs CDC approval. For cats, you have more flexibility: you can fly with your cat in the cabin if it meets airline size limits. If you are traveling from a high-risk country and your dog fails the titer test, you must wait and retest—there is no waiver. Always consult the CDC website or a licensed veterinarian for the most current rules.