The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently unveiled new rules for bringing dogs into the United States.

These regulations aim to prevent the reintroduction of rabies, a disease eliminated in U.S. dogs since 2007. The new requirements have implications for dog owners, breeders, and rescue organizations.

Understanding the New Rules

Starting August 1, 2024, all dogs entering the U.S. must be at least six months old and microchipped. This move addresses the rising concerns about rabies and fraudulent rabies vaccination certificates.

The CDC now requires dogs to be microchipped and for owners to provide proof of valid rabies vaccinations or evidence that their pet has not been in a high-risk country for rabies in the last six months, reports the Associated Press.

If a dog is coming from a high-risk country and received its rabies vaccine abroad, additional steps include a blood test to confirm immunity and a U.S. rabies vaccine upon arrival. If the blood test is not conducted, the dog must undergo a 28-day quarantine, NPR reports.

Microchipping Requirement

The new rule mandates that all dogs must be microchipped, a procedure similar to a person receiving a shot. The microchip, placed between the pet's shoulder blades, stores the owner's contact information and is not a GPS device, reports WDRB.

This requirement aims to ensure that dogs can be easily identified and their vaccination status verified.

Impact on Pet Owners and Rescue Groups

The new regulations have sparked varied reactions among different stakeholders. Angela Passman, who helps families move their pets internationally, sees the new rules as a positive step despite the increased workload for pet owners, according to the AP.

Dr. Emily Pieracci, a CDC veterinary medicine officer, told NPR that the changes are crucial to address the current challenges, such as the increased international movement of dogs and fraudulent documentation.

The U.S. imports about 1 million dogs annually, and these new regulations are expected to enhance the safety and health of both pets and people.

Unique Challenges in Alaska

Alaska faces unique challenges with these new rules. State veterinarian Sarah Coburn highlights the impact on residents who travel to Canada for veterinary care, as dogs under six months will no longer be allowed to re-enter the U.S., reports Alaska Public Media.

Additionally, the requirement for an ISO-certified microchip and a rabies vaccine administered by a USDA-accredited vet poses challenges for rural areas with limited veterinary services.

Veterinarian Jeanne Olson told Alaska Public Media that many sled dogs lack microchips and may face difficulties with compliance.

Public Health and Safety

The CDC's updated regulations are driven by public health priorities. Rabies remains a deadly disease, and preventing its reintroduction into the U.S. is crucial. The CDC notes that each rabid dog imported could cost more than half a million dollars to contain and pose significant health risks to people and animals.

Dr. Rena Carlson of the American Veterinary Medical Association supports the new rules, telling NPR that they will positively impact both public health and canine welfare. Similarly, Lori Kalef from SPCA International praised the regulations for ensuring safer importation of dogs, especially those brought back by U.S. service members. The CDC's new rules for dog importation mark a significant update to regulations that have been in place since 1956.

These changes are designed to prevent rabies from re-entering the United States and to address current challenges in international pet movement. While the new requirements may pose some difficulties, they ultimately aim to protect public health and ensure the safety of pets and their owners.