Can My Dog Cross The Border Into US

There are many factors that will determine if your dog can cross the border.

For example, if you are driving to a border crossing, you will need to meet the requirements of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). If you are flying into a U.S. airport or seaport, you will need to meet the requirements of USDA and CBP as well as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

The requirements for each agency vary in accordance with their regulations and policies so it is important to check with them before crossing the border with your pet dog.

Can you cross the US border with a dog?

Dogs must be accompanied by a current, valid rabies vaccination certificate that includes the following information: Name and address of owner. Breed, sex, age, color, markings, and other identifying information for the dog. Date of rabies vaccination and vaccine product information.^[1]

Can dogs cross the US border from Canada?

Traveling From Canada to the United States Canadian travelers who plan to vacation in the United States may take pet cats and dogs into the country with no restrictions, but U.S. Customs requires that dogs have proof of rabies vaccination no less than 30 days before arrival.^[2]

What does a dog need to get into the US?

Option A: A valid US-Issued rabies vaccination certificate (RVC). Option B: Apply for and obtain a valid CDC Dog Import Permit before arrival. Option C: For dogs without a US-issued rabies vaccination certificate or a CDC Dog Import Permit.^[3]

Do dogs need papers to cross the border?

NO: Dog can enter at any port of entry with a 6-month travel history statement and healthy appearance. Dogs that have NOT been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months are NOT required by CDC to present a rabies vaccination certificate.^[4]

How long will the CDC dog ban last?

Starting June 10, 2022, the temporary suspension for dogs entering the United States from high-risk countries for dog rabies will be extended until January 2023. This includes dogs arriving from countries without high risk of rabies if the dogs have been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months.^[5]

What shots do dogs need to cross into US from Canada?

You must bring a copy of your dog’s current rabies vaccination certificate from a licensed veterinarian including: Your information: name and address. Your dog’s description: breed, sex, age, colour, markings, and other identifying information for the dog. Date of rabies vaccination and vaccine product information.^[6]

Does dog need passport to enter US?

You probably have a plan for your own passport, but your animal companion needs one too. All pets traveling to and from the United States need a passport.^[7]

Is there a quarantine for dogs coming into the US?

Cats and Dogs Quarantine for pets is not required by most U.S. states and territories; however, Hawaii and Guam do have quarantine requirements for pet dogs and cats being imported into the United States. Pets excluded from entry into the United States must be sent back to the country of origin.^[8]

What vaccines does my dog need to go to the USA?

Your dog’s rabies vaccination must be valid throughout the duration of your trip. If you are relocating to the US with your pet, make sure your dog gets their rabies booster shots on time. Other optional vaccinations for dogs are Canine Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, and Bordatella.^[9]

How long does a dog passport last?

The passports are valid for life as long as you keep up to date with your pet’s rabies vaccination. A rabies booster vaccination is required every 3 years.^[10]

How long does it take to get a dog passport?

Pet passports (Animal Healthcare Certificates) can be issued within 24 hours if applied between Monday to Friday. An animal health certificate can only be issued ten days prior to travel. However, if your pet has received their rabies vaccination, you must wait 21 days before you can travel anywhere.^[11]

What do I need to bring my dog back from Mexico to the USA?

In order to bring dogs from Mexico to the US, your dog will simply need the following: Health certificate to show that your dog is fit and healthy; and. Oral confirmation that your dog has lived in Mexico for the past 6 months or since birth.^[12]