CDC Simplifies New Requirements for Importing Dogs from Low-Risk Rabies Countries

Black lab with mallard in water

Though requiring fewer documents, the regulations still require hunters traveling with dogs to take additional actions over previous seasons

BISMARCK, NORTH DAKOTA—The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had been set to impose significantly stringent requirements on importing dogs into the United States beginning August 1, 2024. Fortunately, advocacy by the American Kennel Club, Delta Waterfowl, a bipartisan group of senators, and other public groups convinced the CDC to release simplified requirements on Monday, July 22. However, changes remain in place that hunters need to be aware of.

Beginning August 1st, bringing a dog into the United States from any dog rabies-free or low risk country (which includes Canada) will require:

  • A completed CDC Dog Import Form, which is free and can be completed as late as the day of travel. (The form is valid for six months and can be used for multiple entries into the U.S. for that dog.)
  • The dog to appear healthy on arrival.
  • The dog to be at least six months of age at the time of entry or return to the U.S.
  • An implanted microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner to identify the dog.

The final two requirements in the list are new, and the last one could catch traveling hunters unaware: An implanted microchip is not required (at this time) for entry into Canada, so theoretically a U.S. hunter could travel there without a problem, but find the dog is denied re-entry into the U.S. when returning home.

With waterfowling seasons opening in Canada as early as September 1, traveling hunters with dogs that are not yet chipped must meet that requirement before departing with their dogs.

The 2024 Hunt Annual edition of Delta Waterfowl magazine that will arrive in Delta members’ homes in early August contains the report of the CDC’s requirements prior to this modification of its decision. For the latest information and more details, go to: https://www.cdc.gov/importation/dogs/rabies-free-low-risk-countries.html—Bill Miller