Transporting your dog to the USA on your own can be a complex, time-consuming process that demands thorough preparation and strict adherence to regulations. In 2024, new rules for importing animals were introduced, particularly for countries with a high risk of rabies (including CIS countries). To simplify the process, our experts have broken down the details and created a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the journey smoothly and without issues.
1. Check the Exact Age of the Animal
Check this information in the pet’s veterinary passport – the most important document. This is the first and most mandatory condition since the import of puppies under six months is prohibited.
2. Choose the Right Carrier
Before departure, make sure that the carrier meets the requirements of the airlines. It should be spacious enough for the dog to stand, turn around and lie down. Failure to comply with these rules may result in refusal of transportation.
There is only one standard for carriers intended for transporting animals – IATA. Their available sizes are:
- 60x40x40 cm (size 3)
- 67x50x47 cm (size 4)
- 80x56x59 cm (size 5)
- 90x60x68 cm (size 6)
- 100x67x75 cm (size 7)
- 115x69x85 cm (size 8)
- 120x81x89 cm (size 9)
These carriers comply with all international standards for comfortable and safe transportation of pets.
In our blog, you can find information on how to choose a box for a flight.
3. Vaccinate Against Rabies
Puppies can be vaccinated against rabies starting at 3 months of age. If this deadline is missed due to illness or lack of vaccine availability, vaccination can still be done at any age. After the rabies vaccine, you must wait 28 days before having a veterinarian check your dog’s blood for rabies antibodies. The blood sample will be sent to a specialized lab, and if the antibody level meets the required threshold (0.5 IU/ml or higher), you can travel with your pet 90 days after the blood test and the issuance of an international veterinary passport. This rule applies to travel within Europe and to the USA.
4. Install an ISO-Approved Microchip
Before traveling, install an ISO-standard microchip. It will allow identification at the border. Make sure it is correctly registered and working.
5. Take a Titer Test
A month after vaccination, you need to take an antibody titer test. It is carried out in an accredited laboratory, and its results are certified by a state veterinarian. If the reading is below 0.5 IU/ml, your pet will not be allowed to enter and will be required to undergo a twenty-eight-day quarantine.
6. Gather Documents
To successfully cross the border, you will need to prepare the following:
- CDC Dog Import Form, which must be completed 3-10 days before arrival. It consists of two pages and is valid for one month.
- Vaccination records with antibody test results.
- Import form, including information about the owner and recipient of the animal, if they differ.
7. Apply For CDC Permission
The form must be completed no later than 3 days before the intended import. Typically, you can receive it within 2 hours of submission. For puppies under one year old, make sure to include a recent photograph (taken no more than ten days prior to entry) with your application. It’s important to note that submitting the request is free and can be done online via a special form or by email.
8. Air Transportation of a Dog to the USA
Start by booking a ticket. Choose an airline that carries animals. Each airline has its own rules regarding the transportation of dogs – in the cabin or in the baggage compartment. It is important to familiarize yourself with the requirements in advance, including weight and size restrictions.
Now import is possible only through six airports:
- Atlanta
- Los Angeles
- New York
- Washington
- Philadelphia
- Miami
Even if your final destination is in another city, you must complete the check at one of these airports and then fly domestically. Upon arrival, all dogs are checked at a quarantine center.
9. Dog Check and Possible Quarantine
Under the new rules, upon arrival with a dog, a mandatory inspection at a quarantine center is required. The cost for a three-day stay at a pet hotel ranges from $1,300 to $1,500, depending on the airport. If your dog successfully passes the quarantine after three days, it will be returned to you. However, if the rabies antibody level is below 0.5 IU/ml, your dog may be placed in a 28-day quarantine, costing $400–500 per day, and will be re-vaccinated. All quarantine costs are the responsibility of the owner. Additionally, re-vaccination could impact your pet’s health, particularly if they are already in a weakened state.
If your dog has lived in the European Union for at least six months, you can obtain a European veterinary passport. With this document, your pet will not need to undergo quarantine upon arrival in the USA, allowing you to leave the airport without further inspection.
Delivery Animal can guide you on obtaining a European veterinary passport and assist with completing the CDC form.
10. Contact Professionals
While it’s possible to transport your dog to the USA on your own, there’s a risk that your pet may be denied entry, leading to extra costs for return transportation. Your dog could also be placed in quarantine, which would be an additional expense for you. With our service, you can avoid these issues! We save you time, stress, and money by securing better rates for dog transportation through our bulk shipping agreements with airlines.
Advantages of Delivery Animal:
- high-quality service;
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- more than 8 years of impeccable work.
We will explain all the nuances in detail and take care of the preparation for transporting your dog to the USA. Let your furry friend’s trip pass with minimal risks and worries for you!