CDC form for dogs: why you need it and how to fill it out correctly

We Provide CDC Form Completion Services

If you are planning to transport a dog to the United States, it is essential to prepare all required documents in advance. One of the key documents is the CDC Dog Import Form. This is a mandatory permit, without which your dog will not be allowed to cross the U.S. border.
In this article, we explain why CDC approval for dog import is required, what consequences errors in the form may lead to, and how much quarantine can cost. At the end, we explain how Delivery Animal can help you avoid these problems.

What Is the CDC Form?

The CDC form is a special permit required to import dogs into the United States. It is issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This document confirms that the dog is vaccinated, healthy, and does not pose a risk to people or other animals.

Particularly strict requirements apply to dogs arriving from high-risk rabies countries (including many CIS countries). In such cases, without CDC approval, the dog will simply not be allowed to enter the U.S.
Even if the dog has a veterinary passport and vaccinations, without the CDC form it will be denied entry at the border.

Why Is the CDC Form Required?

The CDC Dog Import Form is required in order to:

• Confirm that the dog is healthy and not a rabies carrier

• Comply with U.S. regulations for importing pets

• Avoid the risk of entry refusal, forced return of the dog, or lengthy quarantine

Without an approved permit, the dog may either be sent back or placed in a special quarantine facility, which involves significant costs.

What Happens If You Make a Mistake?

Filling out the CDC form requires accuracy and attention to detail. Even a small mistake can lead to serious consequences:

• Entry denial – if the information is incorrect or inconsistent, the dog will not be allowed into the country

• Financial losses – the owner may have to pay for a return flight or quarantine, both of which are very expensive

• Loss of time – document errors can result in delays lasting weeks or even months

Even minor discrepancies in vaccination dates or incorrectly entered details can lead to refusal. That’s why it is crucial to verify all documents carefully and complete the CDC form correctly.

Quarantine Costs

If documents are completed incorrectly or the dog does not meet CDC requirements, quarantine may be imposed. This results in additional expenses:

• 3-day quarantine at a pet hotel costs approximately $1,300–$1,500. If the dog passes inspection and meets all requirements, it is released to the owner.

• 28-day quarantine is required if antibody levels are below the acceptable threshold or if other violations are found. The cost is $400–$500 per day, totaling $11,200–$14,000.

All quarantine-related expenses are fully borne by the dog owner. That is why it is so important to properly prepare all documents and obtain CDC approval before traveling.

How to Transport a Dog to the USA Without Problems?

To avoid issues at the border, dog owners must carefully study CDC requirements and correctly complete all documents. However, doing this independently can be difficult, especially without prior experience.

Delivery Animal offers professional assistance with dog import documentation for the USA. We provide:

• Consultations on CDC requirements and document preparation

• Full document review to prevent errors and refusals

• Professional CDC form completion — we handle the entire process to minimize risks

If you need a CDC permit to import a dog into the United States, contact Delivery Animal. We will professionally prepare all documents so your pet can cross the U.S. border without delays or complications.