Russ BaileyThe U.S. is introducing crucial new regulations for dogs entering the country, which means dog owners crossing the border from Canada will face additional requirements. All dogs, including service dogs, must be microchipped, at least six months old, and accompanied by a new import form.
These rules will take effect on Aug. 1, although a grace period is being requested for Canadian travelers. Health Minister Mark Holland announced that he has secured some concessions on the new regulations. However, the Canadian government is seeking total exemption, arguing that Canada and the U.S. are free from dog rabies, and the restrictions will negatively impact businesses and border residents.
For now, here are the key points about the new CDC regulations:
Import Form
Anyone bringing a dog into the U.S. must complete a CDC Dog Import Form, available online. The form requires basic information about the dog and a clear photograph showing its face and body. The picture must be taken for dogs under one year within ten days of crossing the border.
Other Documents
Dog owners need a Canadian-issued rabies vaccination certificate, signed by a licensed veterinarian, including vaccination and microchip details. The rabies vaccination must be administered after the microchip implantation or on the same day; otherwise, it is considered invalid by U.S. authorities.
While it was previously required that Canadian dogs have rabies vaccination certification within 30 days of travel, Holland mentioned that the U.S. would introduce a specific form for Canada. This form will allow a dog to enter and re-enter the U.S. as long as its rabies vaccination remains valid for one or three years, provided the vaccination occurred in a “rabies-free or low-risk” country. The CDC lists Canada as such, whereas dogs from high-risk countries face stricter requirements. Canadian dogs that have visited a high-risk country in the last six months will be denied entry.
The CDC has removed some initial requirements, such as endorsement by an official Canadian Food Inspection Agency vet and a specific International Organization for Standardization (ISO) microchip. Any universally readable microchip will be accepted for dogs from Canada.
What if you need to meet the requirements?
If the requirements are unmet, your dog will not be allowed entry to the U.S. and will be sent back at your expense. According to the CFIA website, exemptions can be requested in advance and considered by the CDC on a case-by-case basis. If your dog appears unhealthy upon arrival, it may be quarantined and subjected to additional testing at your expense to ensure it does not have a contagious disease.
What if your dog is from the U.S. and heading home?
The CFIA states that the CDC has specific requirements for U.S. dogs returning home. Owners must arrange for their dogs to re-enter the U.S. Dogs vaccinated for rabies in the U.S. must obtain export documentation from U.S. authorities to return. Canadian veterinarians can only issue such documentation if the dog is re-vaccinated against rabies in Canada and waits six months before re-entering the U.S. This process ensures a smooth return journey for your dog.
