July 09, 2024

Re: Update: CDC changes to dogs entering the US

CFIA updated their website on July 5.

Notes from CFIA

• Please note that the CFIA is currently unable to provide endorsement for export documents for dogs entering the U.S., as the process is being discussed with the CDC.
• The CFIA recognizes the concerns and impact that the CDC requirements have on Canadians. We have shared this information with the CDC to support the development of a more streamlined process for Canadians. The CFIA continues to actively work with the CDC to develop a specific process that will be used for dogs travelling from Canada to the U.S.
• We anticipate more information to be available by mid-July.

For the most current from CFIA, visit: Dogs Travelling to the US.

Summary of CDC requirements

As of Aug. 1, 2024, all dogs entering the U.S. must:

• be at least 6 months of age
• have an International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compliant microchip
• appear healthy upon arrival
• have a CDC Dog Import Form receipt (this form will only be made available by the CDC on July 15, 2024, and must be submitted through the CDC website)
• have additional documentation, which varies depending on where the dog has been in the past 6 months before entering the U.S., and the dog's rabies vaccination status

For the most current from CDC, visit: Bringing a Dog into the United States.

Information for clients (courtesy of CFIA)

Dog owners/exporters can prepare in advance

• Ensure your dog has an ISO-compliant microchip
• If your dog does not have an ISO-compliant microchip, contact a Canadian licensed veterinarian to make an appointment to implant an ISO-compliant microchip
• Have a copy of a Canadian veterinary record (for example, a vaccination certificate, health certificate, invoice or purchase records, etc.) from at least 6 months to 1 year (at latest) prior to the travel date
• For example, if you plan to travel to the U.S. with your dog on Sept. 1, 2024, your Canadian veterinary record must be from Sept. 1, 2023, to March 1, 2024
• Ensure your dog's ISO-compliant microchip number is accurately recorded on all veterinary records and documentation
• Ensure your dog's rabies vaccine is up to date
• Although rabies vaccination is not currently a mandatory requirement by the CDC or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for personal pet dogs that have been in Canada for the past 6 months, the CFIA is still finalizing the process for Canadian dogs travelling to the U.S. and it could become required or be required in certain situations
• Dogs are also subject to individual state requirements – many of which require rabies vaccination
• Rabies vaccination is required by most Canadian provinces/territories and is a requirement by the CFIA for dogs entering Canada
• In order for the rabies vaccination to be considered valid by the CDC, it must be done after the ISO-compliant microchip has been implanted. If your dog is due for rabies vaccination, ensure they have an ISO-compliant microchip implanted before vaccinating

A notice for the public is also available on Alberta Animal Health Source: https://www.albertaanimalhealthsource.ca/content/upcoming-border-entry-requirements-dogs-traveling-us-starting-august-1-2024. 

CVMA communications/webinar

CVMA is also monitoring the situation and meeting regularly with CFIA. Yesterday, they shared an update with members. The notice reiterates the information shared above and what is currently available from CFIA and the CDC.

CVMA also plans to convene a national webinar on CDC requirements for dogs entering the US during the week of July 15, with speakers from the CFIA and the University of Guelph. Please watch your email for the webinar invitation.

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