CDC Implements New Regulations for Flying with Pets: Here's The Lowdown

Starting August 1, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is rolling out new regulations for traveling with pets, impacting the estimated 4 million animals that fly each year. This update marks the first change in CDC import requirements since 1950, signaling a significant shift in pet travel protocols.

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According to Tailwind Global Pet, experts in CDC-compliant pet travel, with a little planning you can ensure that your furry friend meets both domestic and International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards.

Flying with pets can be a complex process due to differing requirements for age, breed, and documentation across airlines and destinations. Each country and airline has its own set of rules, making every trip unique. Paperwork can take from a few days to several months to process, depending on the destination. Using a service like is one option to make sure you have all the necessary permits, vaccinations, USDA endorsements, and IATA-compliant crates.

For those planning to cover the CDC’s new rules on August 1, consider reaching out to Tailwind Global Pet, which was founded in 1983 by Sharon Graner and her daughter Kimberly Graner. EVP Kimberly Graner is a recognized expert in compliant, safe pet travel. She works closely with the CDC, is a member of the Animal Transportation Association (ATA), and sits on an industry liaison committee for IPATA.

The CDC values feedback from various countries, industry partners, and the public. In response, it has simplified the process for dogs arriving from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries, according to the CDC website.

Starting August 1, the only required documentation for dogs entering or returning to the United States from these countries is the CDC Dog Import Form. For dogs that have been exclusively in dog rabies-free or low-risk countries during the 6 months prior to entering the U.S., this is the only required form.

Upon submission, you will receive a receipt via email, which can be printed or shown on your phone. The receipt for the CDC Dog Import Form is valid for 6 months from issuance, provided the dog does not visit a high-risk country during that time. It can be used for multiple entries into the United States as long as the dog has not been in a high-risk country in the past 6 months. The form must be completed by the person bringing the dog into the U.S. (the importer), and it is free of charge. Each dog must have its own form, so if you are bringing more than one dog to the U.S., you will need to complete a separate form for each one.

What else is required for dogs from dog rabies-free or low-risk countries?

In addition to having a receipt for a CDC Dog Import Form:

• Dogs must appear healthy upon arrival.
• Dogs must be at least 6 months old at the time of entry or return to the U.S.
• Dogs must have a microchip that can be detected with a universal scanner for identification.