Navigating the Latest CDC Dog Import Guidelines with Wags Animal Hospital
Miami, FL, November 12, 2024 – The CDC recently announced updated import requirements for privately owned dogs entering the United States. As dog owners plan their holiday travel or return to seasonal homes in Florida, it’s crucial to be aware of these changes. The new guidelines emphasize stricter Rabies-control measures aimed at protecting public health. Wags Animal Hospital, located in Brickell Key, FL, has extensive experience guiding clients through complex import/export procedures, ensuring compliance with the latest CDC regulations.
The revised guidelines categorize countries into these groups: Low-risk/Rabies-Free and High-Risk. Regardless of the country of origin, all dogs entering the U.S. must be at least six months old, microchipped, in good health, up-to-date on their Rabies vaccination, and have a CDC Dog Import form. Dogs arriving from a high-risk country are then further divided based on the location the Rabies vaccine was given, in the U.S. vs outside the U.S. Dogs from high-risk countries with a non-U.S. Rabies vaccination face the most stringent measures, including Rabies titers, quarantine protocols, and entry restrictions to specific ports.
See if your country is on the High-Risk list: https://www.cdc.gov/importation/dogs/high-risk-countries.html
Wags Animal Hospital offers support for obtaining the necessary USDA and CDC documentation needed for pet import and export. All of their clinicians are USDA-APHIS Accredited. The team has considerable experience helping clients navigate the complexities of these processes while ensuring adherence to the latest CDC guidelines.
Pet owners are strongly encouraged to plan well in advance when preparing for international travel with their pets. Given the new requirements and strict timelines, last-minute departures are often not feasible. The updated regulations underscore the importance of advanced planning, particularly regarding the Rabies vaccination before a dog can re-enter the U.S. Wags Animal Hospital advises pet owners to stay informed and prepared for these changes to ensure a smooth international journey with their pets.
“Things have changed. You must be prepared in advance. This update specifically applies to dogs, focusing on public health and Rabies prevention. At Wags Animal Hospital, we guide our clients through these new requirements, ensuring compliance and smooth entry into the U.S.” – Dr. Ori Eizenberg Weinger, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, USDA-APHIS Accredited, Wags Animal Hospital
About Wags Animal Hospital
At Wags Animal Hospital, we strive to provide personalized medical care, work with clients to help them understand their pets’ needs and provide exceptional customer service, all while incorporating the latest advancements in veterinary medicine into our daily operations. Our experienced veterinarians are passionate about helping pets live long, healthy and happy lives. We offer a wide range of services, from wellness and dental checks to advanced treatments, ensuring that dogs and cats receive the best-possible care in a calm and stress-free environment. For more information, reach out to Wags Animal Hospital at 305-603-9697 or email frontdesk@wagsbrickellkey.com.