Importing your Dog from a High Threat Rabies Country
- permanentchangeofa
- Dec 13, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: 4 hours ago
Traveling with Fido? Navigate the New CDC Dog Import Rules Like a Pro
Traveling internationally with a pet can be stressful, but if you are bringing a dog into the U.S. from a country classified as "high-risk" for rabies, you need to be extra prepared.
As of August 1, 2024, the CDC implemented new requirements for dog importation. Whether you are returning home with your U.S. pup, bringing a foreign-vaccinated dog stateside, or returning on official government orders, here is what you need to know.
✅ The Universal Checklist (For ALL Dogs)
Regardless of where your dog was vaccinated or your employment status, if they are entering from a high-risk country, they must meet these baseline criteria:
Health: Appear healthy upon arrival.
Age: Be at least 6 months old.
Microchip: Have an ISO-compliant microchip (implanted prior to rabies vaccination).
CDC Receipt: Have the CDC Dog Import Form receipt (available online).
Scenario A: The "Fast Track" (U.S.-Vaccinated Dogs)
If your dog was vaccinated in the United States, you have the most flexibility. You can skip the specific Animal Care Facilities (ACF) and enter through any U.S. port (airport, land, or sea), provided you have your paperwork in order.
To qualify for entry at any port, your dog must:
Be Healthy & Old Enough: Must be healthy upon arrival and at least 6 months old.
Be Microchipped: Have an ISO-compliant microchip implanted before their rabies vaccination.
Have the Receipt: Possess a valid CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
Have the Right Paperwork: You must have a Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form.
Note: This must be completed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and endorsed by the USDA before you leave the U.S. Alternatively, a USDA-endorsed export health certificate with microchip and rabies info works too.
⚠️ Crucial Detail: Even though you can enter through any port, the specific arrival date and port of entry must match what is listed on your CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
Scenario B: Foreign-Vaccinated Dogs (From High-Risk Countries)
If your dog was vaccinated outside of the U.S. and is coming from a high-risk rabies country, the rules are stricter. You MUST enter through a port with a CDC-approved Animal Care Facility (ACF). Current list Here.
Your experience at that facility depends entirely on your dog’s Titer Test status.
1. The "Express" Lane (With a Valid Rabies Titer)
If you prepared ahead of time, your dog might not need the full quarantine.
The Requirement: You have valid Rabies Titer test results from a CDC-approved lab. The blood must have been drawn at least 30 days after the initial vaccine and 28 days before arrival.
The Process: Your dog must be examined by a USDA-accredited vet at the ACF and receive a rabies booster.
The Perk: You are generally not required to do the full 28-day quarantine.
Required Form: Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form.
2. The Quarantine Lane (No Valid Titer)
If your dog does not have a valid titer, or the paperwork isn't quite right, they are subject to a mandatory stay.
The Requirement: A 28-day quarantine at the CDC Animal Care Facility is required.
What You Need to Book:
Certification of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip form.
CDC Dog Import Form receipt.
Photos of your pet's teeth and body.
🎖️ Special Guidance: Military & U.S. Gov Personnel
If you are returning to the U.S. on official orders, there are specific resources available to you. However, please note: There is currently NO exemption for U.S. dog entry requirements. You must meet the standards.
For Department of War (DoW) Service Members
There is good news for service members stationed overseas:
Your Dog Can Likely Enter as "U.S.-Vaccinated": All DOD veterinarians are USDA-accredited. DOD also supplies USDA-licensed vaccines to U.S. military bases overseas.
The Process: A DOD veterinarian can access the USDA’s online system to endorse the Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies Vaccination form. This allows your personal pet to enter under the easier Scenario A rules listed above.
Next Steps: Contact your base veterinarian directly with questions.
No Access to a Base Vet? Contact the DOD office managing your travel for information on how to proceed.
For U.S. Government Employees
Please contact the Department of State Travel Management and Policy Office. They can provide specific information about returning on official orders with a personal pet that has been in a high-risk rabies country.
📝 Final Thoughts
Navigating government regulations is tricky, but getting it right ensures your furry friend stays safe and comes home with you without delay.
Action Item: Before you book your flight, visit cdc.gov/DogTravel to review the official forms and ensure you have the latest updates on regulations.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes. Always consult official CDC guidelines and your veterinarian before traveling.
Important Links
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services I trust and believe will add value to my readers.
What we use to take Pictures with:
Pixel 9 Pro XL: https://amzn.to/4panUb8
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra: https://amzn.to/4r7J2jW
Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra: https://amzn.to/4plFZ6c
GoPro HERO 13 Black: https://amzn.to/4oJfebL
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera: https://amzn.to/4pi80v
Pet PCS items:
Petskd Top-Expandable Pet Carrier: https://amzn.to/48GJfmY
Petmate Sky Kennel: https://amzn.to/4p4olUB
Petmate 290300 Kennel Travel Kit for Pets: https://amzn.to/3KwaFCO
Collapsible Dog Bowls for Travel: https://amzn.to/44jcQk7
Comments