U.S. drops rules for dogs entering from rabies-free countries

Posted on July 22, 2024 by Peggy

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control will not require Canadians to fill out long forms before crossing the border from Canada with their dogs this summer.

The agency had announced new rules in May that were aimed at keeping rabies out of the country.

They stated that dogs needed to be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies and accompanied by two forms, including one signed by a veterinarian.

The changes, which were set to take effect next month, had been panned by veterinary associations, the tourism industry and the federal government in Canada.

WATCH: B.C. vet says rabies concern are valid, but new U.S. border rules are ‘overkill’

Last week, Health Minister Mark Holland said he secured a partial exemption to the rules for dogs coming from Canada, but was pushing for a total waiver.

The CDC now says as long as the dog has been in a low-risk or rabies-free country for the last six months, it can cross the border with just an import form that can be completed online the day of travel.