Simplified New CDC Requirements Just Announced for U.S. Hunting Dogs Returning from Canada

On July 22 the CDC announced updated canine travel and importation guidelines that will impact U.S. hunters with dogs returning from Canada this hunting season. These new requirements go into effect on August 1, 2024 and are much clearer and simpler than those previously set by the agency at the end of June.

Ducks Unlimited (DU) supported Rep. Nick Langworthy’s (NY) bipartisan letter urging the CDC to simplify and/or delay this proposed rule last week, and will continue to closely monitor the issue. 

Although the new guidelines are more straightforward, hunters still need to make sure they have everything properly in order before heading north this fall, including the usual requirements from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The updated CDC-specific requirements are as follows:

• Dog Import Form: If your dog has only been in countries that are rabies-free or low-risk in the past 6 months (Canada is considered rabies-free), the only new document you now need is verification of completion of a CDC Dog Import Form online. Once the form is complete, hunters must save a receipt digitally or print it out physically. Additional CDC instructions on completing this free form can be viewed here.
• Good Health: Your dog must appear healthy to enter or re-enter the U.S.
• Microchip: Dogs must have a valid microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner to identify them. There is no longer a requirement on the timeframe the microchip must be administered.
• Age Requirement: Dogs must be at least 6 months old.

Important Dog Import Form Details

• Validity: The import form's receipt is valid for 6 months unless the dog visits a high-risk country.
• Multiple Entries: The receipt can be used for multiple entries if the dog hasn't been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months.
• Cost: Free
• Number of Dogs: Each dog needs its own form.
• Timing: Although you can complete the import form right at a crossing with good cell service, it is recommended to complete the form a few days or weeks before travel.
• Showing the Receipt: Show the receipt (printed or on your phone) to U.S. customs officials at the border crossing or airline. For more information, visit the CDC's website.

Additional CFIA Requirements

When traveling across the border to Canada with your dog, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has a brief set of their own unique requirements that should be familiar to U.S. hunters. Upon crossing, you'll need to ensure your retriever has the following:

• A valid rabies vaccination certificate
• Appears healthy

These guidelines are straightforward and have long been part of the responsible travel routine for hunters crossing the border. To find out more, visit the CFIA website.

Media Contact:

Nathan Ratchford

Conservation Communications Coordinator

(570) 406-4925

nratchford@ducks.org