The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has announced that it will relax some requirements for dogs to cross the US border. This decision comes after receiving feedback from the public, industry partners, and various countries.
The original regulations for dogs from low-risk countries required them to be microchipped, at least six months old, and have extensive paperwork signed by a USDA-certified vet. Additionally, dogs needed to have a rabies vaccine administered after microchipping.
However, the new regulations for low-risk countries have reduced the requirements. Dogs still need to be six months old and microchipped, but the paperwork has been simplified to just one form, the Dog Import Form, which can be filled out online for free.
The reduction in paperwork addresses concerns about cost and access to veterinary care. This change is a result of advocacy from Maine Representatives, including Senator Susan Collins, Senator Angus King, and Congressman Jared Golden, who pressured the CDC to revise the regulations.
They argued that the original regulations would have had a negative impact on residents of Maine and New Brunswick. The relaxed rules are a welcome relief, particularly for residents of Aroostook County who participate in sled dog racing.
However, according to Canada’s Health Minister Mark Holland, the relaxed rules may only be temporary. He announced a nine-month grace period, but the CDC has not confirmed any time limits on the new regulations.
The previous regulations raised concerns about the feasibility and cost of obtaining necessary veterinary care and paperwork. The simplified process is expected to make it easier for dog owners to bring their pets across the border.
