USA

USA Info

ONLY APPLICABLE FOR DOGS

The CDC first imposed a temporary ban on the import of dogs from Rabies High Risk Countries from June 2021.

These regulations have been amended several times since and the below are current and in effect from the 1 st of August 2024.

All dogs must:

1. Appear healthy on arrival.
2. Be at least 6 months old at time of travelling.
3. Be permanently identified with an ISO 11784/85 microchip.
4. Dogs must arrive at one of only SIX (6) approved airports with a CDC registered Animal Care Facility – these airports are: Atlanta, JFK New York, Washington Dulles, LAX Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Miami.
5. Adhere to the additional requirements as per below

Vaccinations:

• Dogs must be vaccinated for Rabies when at least 12 weeks of age (84 days old) and at least 30 days prior to intended date of travel.
• All dogs should have up to date annual vaccinations done according to manufacturer’s recommendations and travel with a Veterinary Health Certificate with State Veterinarian endorsement.

A Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test is to be completed

• There must be a minimum of 30 days between the initial Rabies vaccination and the date the blood sample for a Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test is drawn.
• The 30 days waiting period is not required for booster vaccinations however it is highly recommended.
• For pets departing from South Africa, samples can be sent to Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute in Pretoria The blood sample must be taken at least 28 days prior to departure date.

Supporting documents and Additional steps:

• The private veterinarian must complete the CDC Certificate of Foreign Rabies Vaccination and Microchip Record form. And this must be endorsed by the State Veterinarian.
• Owner’s will need to complete the CDC Dog Import Form Owner’s will need to make the reservation at the CDC registered Animal Care Facility at their destination airport for arrival inspection and repeat Rabies vaccination.