New U.S. Dog Importation Rules Aim to Strengthen Rabies Protection

Starting August 1, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will implement stricter rules governing the importation of dogs into the United States. These updated regulations are designed to maintain the nation's rabies-free status by preventing the reintroduction of the virus through imported dogs.

Key aspects of the new regulations include the following:

1. Health Requirements: Dogs entering the U.S. must appear healthy and be at least six months old.

2. Microchipping and Forms: All dogs must be microchipped and accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form, filled out online two to ten days before arrival.

3. Vaccination Status: Dogs should be current on their rabies vaccinations. Dogs arriving from high-risk rabies countries must have serology tests, known as titers, to verify the presence of antibodies, which indicate vaccination against rabies. These results should be from a CDC-approved laboratory.

4. Quarantine Measures: Dogs without valid titer results will need to be quarantined at an animal care facility for 28 days or until the necessary documentation is provided.

The CDC has provided an online tool, "DogBot," to assist travelers in determining the specific requirements based on the dog's travel history and vaccination status. These regulations will also apply to dogs who were born in the U.S. but are returning from abroad.

Mixed Reactions to the New Rules

The CDC’s updated import guidelines have received mixed reactions. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) voiced its support, with President Dr. Rena Carlson praising the CDC for aiming to "protect public health and positively impact canine health and welfare."

However, some animal advocacy groups like Animal Wellness Action see the new rules as excessive. Jennifer Skiff, the group's international director, criticized the requirement for CDC-approved laboratories, arguing that not all countries have such facilities, which may increase the cost and complexity of compliance.

Preventing Rabies Reintroduction

The CDC emphasizes that the new measures are crucial in preventing the reintroduction of canine rabies to the United States, which has been rabies-free since 2007. Over 100 countries still grapple with canine rabies, and unvaccinated dogs can contract the disease from wildlife.

David Daigle, a CDC spokesperson, noted that the new rules are designed to "reduce fraud and improve the U.S. government's ability to verify that imported dogs have met U.S. entry requirements."

With these regulations going into effect soon, pet owners and travelers are urged to plan in advance to meet the new import requirements and ensure a smooth entry for their furry companions.