There are additional restrictions if the dog has been in many countries where rabies is common. You can find the list of those countries on the CDC website.
The new rules go into affect Aug. 1. There's a checklist on the CDC website.
Here's what to know about about the rules:
— Dogs have to be healthy and at least 6 months old when they arrive in the U.S.
— The dog must have a microchip implanted under their skin, which contains identifier information.
— A CDC import form must be filled out in advance, and include a photo of the dog.
— Proof of rabies vaccination is required only if the dog was in a high-risk country in the past six months.
— For dogs vaccinated in the U.S., a certificate endorsed by the Agriculture Department is required.
— For dogs vaccinated outside the U.S., a certificate of vaccination is required along with a blood test, and the animal has to be examined at a CDC-registered facility on arrival in the U.S.
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