U.S. LOOSENS LEASH ON RULES FOR CANADIAN DOGS CROSSING THE BORDER
Source: CTV News (Extract)
Posted: September 5, 2024
In response to protests from veterinarians, the tourism industry, and Canada’s federal government, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has streamlined the process for Canadian dogs crossing the border.
The new regulations, which took effect on August 1, were initially introduced to control rabies. However, there were concerns that the rules were overly stringent for Canadian travelers, given that Canada is considered a rabies-free country.
Dogs will still need to be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and at least six months old. However, the required paperwork can now be completed by the pet owner and submitted online on the day of travel.
“They still need to complete a CDC dog import form, but whereas there used to be a lengthy waiting period, it can now be done online on the same day,” said Dr. Rebecca Greenstein of Kleinberg Veterinary Hospital.
In response to feedback from Canada, the CDC has eliminated some of the more onerous requirements, including the need for a photo ID and a veterinarian-completed form.
Each year, around four million Canadians travel to Florida, many as snowbirds bringing their pets for the winter, and thousands of dogs cross the border daily in transport trucks.
This update coincides with a Rover.com survey revealing widespread confusion among dog owners about U.S. travel regulations. The survey found that 39% of owners are unclear about the requirements, 34% are completely unaware, and 84% are concerned about being separated from their pets at the border.
The Canadian federal government is working with the U.S. to provide Canadians time to adapt to the new rules.
“There is discussion about a potential grace period where the Canadian government hopes for warnings rather than immediate denials of entry for those not fully compliant,” Greenstein added.
Anyone planning to travel to the U.S. with their dog is encouraged to check the CDC’s website for the latest information to avoid being turned away at the border.
The Canadian Snowbird Association has expressed concern that the new regulations may complicate border crossings for the one million snowbirds who visit the U.S. annually, suggesting that the existing rules were sufficient.