Rabies is a viral disease that is typically transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal. In response to this preventable illness, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has introduced new rules for dogs entering the country from other nations. These guidelines, which come into force on August 1st, replace a temporary measure implemented in 2021 that banned the importation of dogs from over one hundred countries where rabies remains prevalent. The updates apply to both pets travelling with their American owners and dogs being transported by rescue organizations and breeders.
Under the new legislation, dogs must receive a rabies vaccine before arriving in the United States, providing they have previously resided in locations where the illness is commonplace. Furthermore, all dogs entering the country must be six months old or more, ensuring that they are old enough to receive the necessary jabs and for the immunization to become effective.
To confirm their rabies vaccination status, dogs must also bear a microchip which contains a unique identification code. Additionally, they must complete a freshly developed “CDC Dog Import Form”, which could lead to further limitations and criteria dependent on their prior movements during the previous six months. This might involve blood tests from accredited laboratories controlled by the CDC.
The CDC’s guidelines, initially established in 1956, have not been altered since. However, Emily Pieracci, a rabies expert at the CDC and one of the individuals responsible for the new regulation’s development, stated that the modifications are essential given the increased number of individuals travelling abroad with their pets and the rise in international rescue organizations and breeders. Approximately one million dogs arrive in the United States annually.
Since 2015, four rabid dogs have entered the nation, prompting authorities’ concerns regarding the potential spread of the disease. Moreover, CDC officials revealed an increase in the number of inadequately filled or fake rabies vaccination documents as well as puppies being refused entry owing to their youth.
Although Angela Passman, founder of a Dallas firm that assists individuals in moving their pets internationally, acknowledges that the new rules necessitate extra work for pet owners, she believes the outcome is beneficial. Passman, who serves on the board of directors for the International Pet and Animal Transport Association, noted that the modifications would have little bearing on how matters have been handled in recent years for individuals who acquire or adopt a dog abroad and subsequently attempt to bring it into the United States.
However, Jennifer Skiff contends that certain elements of the changes are unnecessary and too expensive. Skiff, who works for Animal Wellness Action, a Washington-based organization dedicated to preventing animal mistreatment, claimed that these groups collaborate with diplomats and military personnel who have experienced difficulties fulfilling the criteria, causing some owners to abandon their pets.
In contrast, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) backs the CDC’s new guidelines. According to AVMA President Dr. Rena Carlson, the organization applauds the agency’s endeavours to boost dog importation requirements and believes that the measures will enhance public health, benefit canine health and welfare.
Leave a Reply