As outlined by the Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) earlier this week, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have recently implemented policy changes to simplify entry requirements for dogs entering the U.S. as of August 1.

The updated process will still require the completion of the CDC Dog Import form for all travellers prior to crossing the border, along with meeting other requirements to ensure compliance with the upcoming rule. 

In its update, the CDC acknowledges the considerable feedback received regarding this policy from various industries and impacted sectors and believes the changes have created a more efficient process that addresses many of the concerns around this rule. 

For dogs that have only been in rabies-free or low-risk countries (such as Canada) in the previous six months prior to entering the U.S., the CDC Dog Import form must be completed prior to crossing the border. Dogs that have been to a high-risk country for rabies in the previous six months are not permitted to enter the U.S. with the simplified CDC Dog Import form. In addition, all dogs must continue to be healthy upon arrival; be at least six months old at the time of entry/return to the U.S.; and have any readable microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner for identification purposes. 

Once completed, the CDC Dog Import Form receipt will remain valid for a period of six months, as long as the dog has not entered a high-risk country for rabies during that period. The receipt can also be used for multiple entries and the form will no longer require a destination address. Both changes address irritants highlighted by many CTA members impacted by these new rules.

“The CTA commends the CDC for listening to the public, industry stakeholders, and the concerns from Canadian officials by amending their policy towards a more practical and streamlined solution for the trucking sector and rabies-free countries like Canada,” says CTA’s Director of Policy and Industry Awareness Programs, Lak Shoan. 

“We would also like to extend our thanks to Minister Holland, Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), along with the staff at the Canadian Embassy for their responsiveness, support, and collaboration on this issue with the Alliance and our industry,” added Shoan. 

CTA staff will continue to work with Government of Canada officials on any outstanding issues as this policy comes into effect. 

Members are encouraged to visit the CFIA website as well as the CDC website for the latest info.