Dr. Roy Hadden of Valley Animal Hospital in Waitsfield has alerted pet owners to significant changes in regulations for traveling with pets outside the United States and returning home. These new rules, effective August 1, 2024, apply to all dogs entering or re-entering the U.S.
Previously, only Canada and Mexico required a current rabies certificate for border crossing, while other countries demanded an International Health Certificate signed by an accredited veterinarian and endorsed by a Federal USDA veterinarian. The updated regulations now mandate additional documentation for all dogs.
Key changes include:
Age and Vaccination: Dogs must be over six months old and current on rabies vaccinations. If it’s the first vaccination, it must be administered at least 30 days before entry. Puppies must be at least 84 days old at the time of vaccination.
Microchip Requirement: An international (ISO) microchip number must be included on the rabies certificate. This microchip can be implanted before or at the time of the rabies vaccination but cannot be added retroactively to a previously issued vaccination certificate.
USDA Rabies Certificate: An official, electronically endorsed USDA rabies certificate is required. This certificate differs from the standard rabies certificate received at annual exams or clinics. It must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and then endorsed by a federal USDA veterinarian.
CDC Dog Import Form: A new CDC dog import form must be completed by the pet owner 2 to 10 days prior to entry or re-entry into the U.S. This form will be available starting July 15, 2024, on the CDC website.
Dr. Hadden noted, “Up until 20 years ago, each state had a USDA federal endorsement veterinarian. Budget cuts have reduced this to one USDA vet for all New England. Now, there is only one federal vet in Raleigh, NC, covering the entire East Coast and Southeast.”
Pet owners are advised that a standard rabies shot and certificate will no longer suffice at the border. Incomplete or incorrect documentation will be denied at the endorsement level, delaying the process.
For more information, pet owners can visit the CDC website and search “bringing dogs into the U.S.” or “DogBot.” It is also recommended to consult directly with a veterinarian if planning to travel internationally with a dog.
Additional Considerations:
Certificate of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination: This certificate, available exclusively in the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS), confirms that the rabies vaccination was administered in the U.S. The USDA will review and endorse the certificate electronically.
Expired Rabies Vaccination: If the rabies vaccination is set to expire before the return date, boost the pet’s vaccination in the U.S. before departure, ensuring compliance with the destination country’s requirements, such as a 21-day waiting period.
Pet owners should prepare accordingly to ensure a smooth travel experience under these new regulations.
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