CDC’s new policy on dogs entering the U.S.
Secure Your Dog’s Travel with CDC-Compliant ISO Microchipping
Effective August 1, 2024, ISO-compliant microchip is required for dogs entering the U.S.
Continue reading for more information on the microchip component of the new regulation.
New CDC Regulations Updated as of July 22, 2024
CDC has updated regulations for dogs entering the U.S. These steps depend on where your dog has been in the past 6 months. Please visit CDC’s official website for full entry requirement.
So, What Does This Mean for Pet Owners?
For dogs that have been only in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries in the 6 months before U.S. entry, the one form you will need is the CDC Dog Import Form, which should take a few minutes to complete. A receipt will be emailed to you upon submission of the form. You can print the receipt or show it on your phone.
Dogs that have been only in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries for the last 6 months:
Entry Requirements for Dogs from Dog Rabies-free or Low-risk Countries
In addition to having a receipt for a CDC Dog Import Form:
- Dogs must appear healthy upon arrival.
- Dogs must be at least 6 months old at time of entry or return to the U.S.
- Dogs must have a microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner to identify them.
Please visit CDC’s official website for full entry requirement: Bringing a Dog into the U.S. | Importation | CDC
So, What Does This Mean for Pet Owners?
I have a dog, but no microchip
Starting August 1, 2024, it is mandatory to have your dog microchipped in order to travel to US and the microchip must be ISO certified. In BC Pet Registry, all microchips we use are ISO-certified; specifically, ISO 11784 and ISO 11785, as required by the new policy for radio-frequency identification (RFID) of animals. Please contact your veterinarian to schedule an appointment for microchipping.
I have a dog, and they are microchipped but not ISO-certified
If your dog’s microchip is not ISO-compliant, it is essential to take necessary actions to ensure compliance with the new regulations. For guidance tailored to your specific situation, please visit your local veterinary clinic to discuss the best course of actions that align with the updated requirements and your pet’s well-being.
I have a dog and they have an ISO certified microchip
Having an ISO-certified microchip for your dog means that it meets globally recognized standards for radio-frequency identification (RFID) of animals, as well as the new regulation that will be effective from August 1, 2024. This also ensures compatibility with universal scanners worldwide, making it easier to identify your pet if they become lost or separated from you. However, it is important to ensure that all necessary documentation, including microchip information, is up-to-date and accurately recorded in the BC Pet Registry or other relevant pet registries. If you have any questions or need assistance with updating your pet’s information, please contact your local veterinary clinic or the BC Pet Registry for guidance.
Have an unregistered microchip? Make sure we can find you! Ensure your dog’s safety by registering with the BC Pet Registry now!
Why Use BC Pet Registry Microchips?
Enhanced Pet Safety and Security
- Secure Identification: ISO-compliant microchips provide a reliable method of identifying your pet.
- Peace of Mind: Accurate and accessible identification details ensure quick recovery if your pet is lost. For your own record, register, and download a copy of the registration certificate.
Easy Access to Assistance
- Veterinary Support: Our partnered veterinarians are ready to help with microchipping.
- Stay Informed: Receive updates on regulatory changes to keep your pet travel-ready.
Certificate of Registration
FAQ
What if my dog already has a microchip implanted, how do I know if my microchip can be detected with a universal scanner?
Universal scanners are designed to read multiple frequencies. ISO-FDX-B microchips (134.2 kHz) and FDX-A microchips (125 kHz) are the most commonly detected by universal scanners. These microchips are usually 15 digits in length. For microchips outside of these specifications, please check with your vet or microchip provider.
Important note: Many universal scanners used in the United States have been unable to detect microchips that begin with the numbers 1 or 8. Please ensure the dog’s chip can be detected by a universal scanner if it begins with a number other than 9. If the microchip cannot be scanned on arrival, the dog may be denied entry and returned to the country of departure at the importer’s expense.
My dog will soon have a microchip implanted, what kind of microchip should I get?
We recommend getting a BC Pet Registry microchip from our partnered vets. It is ISO-compliant (FDX-B, ISO-11784/85) and can be detected by universal scanners.
My dog has a tattoo, does that count?
While tattoos can serve as identification for pets, they do not meet the requirements specified by the updated CDC’s new dog travelling/importation requirements. In many cases, microchipping is preferred over tattoos because it provides a more reliable and universally recognized form of identification, especially for international travel. ISO certified microchips are standardized and can be easily scanned to retrieve essential information about your pet, whereas tattoos may fade over time or be hard to read. All BC Pet Registry microchips are ISO-certified. For more information on booking an appointment for microchipping, please visit your local veterinary clinic or contact your local BC SPCA about microchip clinics.
What if I am just traveling to or from Canada and back with my dog for a weekend? Does the new policy still apply to me?
All dogs entering the US must meet the new requirements regardless of the reason for their visit or the length of their visit. Dogs coming from Canada or Mexico, or other dog rabies-free countries, are included.
What about my cats? Does this new policy apply to other types of pets?
Currently, this new policy effective on August 1, 2024 only applies to dogs. However, domestic cats are still subject to inspection at ports of entry. For more information regarding other types of pets, visit the official CDC website Bringing an Animal into U.S. | Importation | CDC
Take Action Now!
Don’t have a microchip?
Get your BC Pet Registry ISO-microchip from participating veterinary clinics.
Already have a microchip?
Ensure your dog’s safety by registering with the BC Pet Registry now!
For more detailed information, visit the CDC’s Official Website.
