New Rules for Canadians Traveling to US with Dogs

July 17, 2024July 17, 2024border crossing, canada, CDC, new pet regulations, pet travel regulations, US pet regulations, USA

Do you intend to travel with your pooch to US in the near future? New rules will be in place for Canadians traveling to US with dogs starting 01.August.2024. Beside the regular documents proofing you are the owner, other type of paperwork must be available upon arrival to the border crossing.

The U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared that, as of August 1, 2024, the regulations governing dog imports will be updated. The new regulations are applicable to foreign nationals and Canadians entering the United States through seaports, land borders, and airports.

The new regulations when traveling to US with dogs:

Be at least 6 months of age at time of entry or return to the United States
Have an implanted International Organization for Standardization (ISO)-compatible microchip
Appear healthy upon arrival
Have a CDC Dog Import Form receipt
- This form should be filled out online ideally 2-10 days before arrival; however, it can also be completed right before travel (even in line at the border crossing)
Have additional documentation which varies depending on where the dog has been in the 6 months before entering or returning to the United States, or if the dog has a current rabies vaccine administered in the United States
have their rabies vaccination

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The dog might not be permitted to enter the country if it doesn’t comply with CDC regulations. The CDC will handle these circumstances on an individual basis. To obtain an official, written derogation for your circumstances, you must get in touch with the CDC at (800) 232-4636 or cdcanimalimports@cdc.gov.

If you travel with your dog before 01.August.2024, here are the requirements you need to meet.

Even though new regulations will be in place on and after 01 of August, the new system is not functioning properly. It was emphasized by the CFIA that it has been “working with the CDC to seek solutions, clarify their new requirements, and highlight their impact on Canadians and our veterinary community.”

More information should be available in the upcoming week, the agency stated in an email. “The CFIA is currently unable to provide endorsement for export documentation for dogs entering the U.S. because this process is being discussed with the CDC,” the agency stated.

Before heading to the southern border is is recommended to get informed and ask your vet for requirements when undergoing traveling to US with dogs.