Starting August 1, new regulations will come into effect for travelers bringing dogs to the United States, as announced by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in a press release. Since May 13, it has been mandatory for dogs to have a microchip compatible with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and a rabies vaccination.

For dogs coming from Mexico and over six months old, it will also be required that they have not been in countries with a high risk of rabies in the last six months. Owners must fill out a form from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), provide certification of foreign rabies vaccination, and a microchip form validated by an official veterinarian from the country of origin of the dog, demonstrating that the country is rabies-free or low risk.

A valid rabies serology title or veterinary records including the dog's microchip number for the previous six months will also be required. The entire process must be completed within 30 days prior to arrival in the United States.

Further details about these measures are available on the website www.cdc.gov/dogtravel, where the DogBot tool can be accessed to verify specific requirements based on travel circumstances.

"As the peak of the summer travel season approaches, we want to inform the public about this new CDC requirement affecting dog importation, which will take effect on August 1 to allow for proper travel planning," a CBP spokesperson noted.

Donald Kusser, Director of Field Operations for CBP in Laredo, emphasized that CBP officers and agriculture specialists are prepared to ensure compliance with these new regulations.

It is important to know that the requirements will apply to all pet owners, tourists, permanent residents, and U.S. citizens.

The new regulation aims to streamline and standardize the entry process, establishing that the necessary documentation must be gathered before entry. Travelers can use the CBP One mobile application to declare their pets before arriving at the checkpoint. Providing information in advance and scheduling appointments can expedite the entry authorization process by CBP.