How to Move Your Pet to the US: A Guide for Pet Parents
Dogs:
If you're bringing a dog to the United States, specific steps depend on whether your dog has been in a low-risk or high-risk rabies country within the past 6 months and whether your dog is vaccinated.
Here are the pet travel requirements:
- Your dog must be at least 6 months old at the time of entry into the United States.
- Your dog must appear healthy at the port of entry.
- Your dog must have a scannable microchip that a universal scanner can detect.
- Your dog must complete the CDC Dog Import Form.
For more information on bringing a dog into the U.S., please visit the CDC website.
Cats:
If you're bringing a cat into the U.S., your cat must appear healthy upon arrival and will undergo an inspection at the port of entry. If your cat shows signs of illness, they may require further examination by a veterinarian at your expense.
Note: Requirements may vary depending on your U.S. destination,
Other Pets:
If you’re moving a pet other than a cat or dog, visit here for detailed information about your pet’s specific import requirements.
Should I Keep My Pet’s Original Health Documents When Moving to the United States?
Make sure to keep all original health documents with your pet's at all times. Do not pack or take them with you—they are your pet’s “passport” for travel!
What Breeds Are Banned From the United States?
While there are no federally banned dog breeds in the United States, some cities and towns may have their own restrictions. It’s essential to research local regulations before moving your pet to ensure compliance.
How Old Does My Pet Need to Be to Travel to the U.S.?
If your puppy or kitten is younger than 4 months old, they are not allowed to enter the United States.
- Rabies Vaccine Requirement: Puppies and kittens must be at least 3 months old to receive a primary rabies vaccination.
- Waiting Period: After the primary rabies vaccine is administered, you must wait 30 days before your pet becomes eligible to enter the U.S.
Plan your travel timeline carefully to ensure your pet meets these requirements.
Health Requirements for Pets to the United States
Microchip
Microchip Timing:
Dogs: All dogs entering the United States must have an ISO-compliant microchip. If your dog is coming from a high-risk rabies country, the microchip must be implanted before their most recent rabies vaccination.
Cats: While cats are not required to have a microchip to enter the U.S., it is highly recommended. Depending on your country of origin, a microchip may be a mandatory requirement for your pet's approved departure.
ISO-Compliant Microchip: Ensure your pet is identified with a 15-digit, ISO-compliant microchip.
Regular Microchip Scans: Ask your veterinarian to scan your pet's microchip during every vet visit. Confirm the microchip is functioning, readable, and matches all medical records.
Avoid Travel Delays: If your pet's microchip is unreadable or its information is incorrect on paperwork, it could delay their travel plans.
What Vaccines Are Needed For Your Pet?
Rabies VaccineDogs:
The rabies vaccination may not be required if your dog has been in a low-risk rabies country within the past 6 months. However, most airlines and U.S. states require it for pet registration. For dogs arriving from a high-risk rabies country within the past 6 months, the rabies vaccination is mandatory. The vaccine administered must be GREATER THAN 30 days before your dog’s titre test and for entry into the United States and remain valid for one (1) year.
Note:If your dog has a valid U.S.-issued rabies vaccination certificate, the import process may vary. Additionally, if arriving from a high-risk rabies country, your dog will need to be re-vaccinated against rabies within 10 days of arrival at a CDC-approved facility in the United States.
FAVN-OIE Rabies Titre Test:
A Rabies Serology Titre Test must be conducted at least 30 days after the most recent rabies vaccination. To prevent quarantine upon arrival in the U.S., the blood sample must be at least 28 days old.
NOTE: It can take 4-6+ Weeks to receive the rabies titre test results back
from the lab.
Cats:
It should be noted that this vaccination is required for most U.S. destinations for customs clearance and most countries need it for departure.
General Vaccines
While general vaccinations are not mandatory for pets traveling to the United States, they are strongly recommended for your pet's health and safety. For pets coming from high-risk rabies countries, general vaccines should be administered according to the manufacturer's guidelines. These vaccines must be at least 30 days old and valid within one (1) year at the time of travel.
Recommended Vaccinations for Dogs:
- DHPP+L: Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, and Leptospirosis
- Bordetella (kennel cough): Must be administered within the last 6 months
Recommended Vaccinations for Cats:
- FVRCP: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia
Screwworm Statement (Dogs Only):
If your dog is coming from a country where the disease is present, an accredited veterinarian must certify that your dog is free of the disease.
This examination must occur within 5 days of your dog's travel to the United States.
Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) (Dogs Only):
If your dog is coming from a country affected by foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), the following steps must be taken:
- Bathing and Isolation: Upon arrival in the United States, your dog must be bathed and kept separate from livestock for 5 days.
- Cleanliness: Ensure your dog’s fur and bedding are free of dirt, straw, or hay before travel.
To check if your country is affected by FMD, click here.
Document Requirements for Pets to Enter the United States
Is a Health Certificate Required to Import My Pet to the United States?
A Government Accredited Vet must examine your dog(s) & complete the International Health Certificate within 7 days of their intended departure. If you decide to use WorldCare Pet, your Pet Relocation Counselor and our team in the origin country will assist with this step.
Note: Many airlines and some U.S. states may still require a health certificate, which must be issued within 10 days of your pet's travel.
Photos of Your Pet
Dogs:
To complete the CDC Dog Import Form, you must provide a clear photo of your dog that includes both its face and body.
Note: Depending on your country of origin, you may also need to provide photos of your dog’s teeth to confirm your dog is not a puppy.
Cats:
No photos are required for cats to enter the United States.
FAQ: Moving your Pet to the U.S.
PawPrint Pet Travel Guide for Top Cities in the U.S.
Planning pet transport to the United States? Explore our PawPrint Guide for safe, pet-friendly services, including veterinarians, boarding kennels, dog parks, pet groomers, and pet shops!
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