Bringing Your Dog Back to the US? New CDC Guidelines Effective August 1st

New CDC Regulations for Dog Owners Reentering the US Begin August 1st

Starting August 1st, dog owners must adhere to new regulations set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) when bringing their pets back into the United States. These updated guidelines aim to ensure the health and safety of both pets and the public.

According to the CDC, dogs must meet the following requirements:

• Age: Dogs must be at least six months old.
• Microchipping: All dogs must be microchipped for identification purposes.
• Rabies Vaccination: Dogs must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate.

Ensuring Compliance

Officials emphasize that these measures are crucial for preventing the spread of rabies and other diseases. “These regulations are in place to protect both the animals and the public. Ensuring your dog meets these requirements will help facilitate a smooth reentry into the country,” said a CDC spokesperson.

Dog owners are encouraged to prepare in advance to ensure compliance with the new rules. Failure to meet these requirements could result in significant delays and potential quarantine of the pet upon arrival in the U.S.

Preparing Your Dog for Travel

To ensure your dog is ready to reenter the U.S. under the new regulations, follow these steps:

1. Verify Age: Confirm that your dog is at least six months old before planning your trip.
2. Microchip: If your dog is not already microchipped, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have this done.
3. Rabies Vaccination: Make sure your dog’s rabies vaccination is up to date. Obtain a valid certificate from your veterinarian that includes the vaccination date and expiration date.

For a complete list of requirements and additional information, dog owners are advised to visit the CDC’s official website.

Importance of the New Regulations

The updated CDC regulations are part of a broader effort to control the spread of rabies and other infectious diseases. Rabies is a severe and often fatal disease that can spread from animals to humans. Ensuring that all dogs entering the U.S. are vaccinated and properly identified is a critical step in maintaining public health and safety.

As the new regulations come into effect, officials are working to inform and educate pet owners about the necessary steps to comply. By preparing in advance and following the guidelines, dog owners can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free return to the U.S. for their furry friends.

For more information on the new regulations and to access the full list of requirements, visit the CDC website.

URLs

For more information:

• CDC – Traveling with Pets

Phone Numbers

• CDC Helpline: 800-232-4636