06/07/2024
There has been many questions and concerns regarding the new CDC requirements for being a dog into the USA beginning Aug 1st. Here’s a summary:
1. Nothing changes for cats; this is for dogs only. Kitties just need a rabies and health cert performed by their local vet as usual.
2. Health certs will be able to be done within 30 days of travel instead of 10 days, as it is now.
3. You must first apply for a CDC dog import permit, which includes taking a picture of your dogs teeth (to show dog is >6 mo old). This will be done online. CDC will have this form available from July 15th onward.
4. Health cert exams and paperwork will be performed by your local vet. If your dog’s rabies vaccine was given on-post, you MUST return to them for your health cert. If the rabies was done off-post, you can go to any off-post veterinarian, even if they weren’t the one to administer the rabies. If the rabies was given off-post, then you cannot use the on-post vet for your health certificate.
5. After step 4 is done, you must take the paperwork to the Landratsamt (similar to the USDA) to be certified and stamped. You must go to the Landratsamt in the Landkreis (county) that you live in. eg. If you live in Sindelfingen, you would use the Landratsamt in Böblingen.
6. The Landratsamt operates by appointment only. They can be difficult to contact sometimes so be sure to make that appointment as early as possible! You must bring your dog with you to that appointment so the microchip can be checked. If you need help determining which Landratsamt you need to use and their contact details, let us know and we will help you.
7. Lastly, it will not be possible to import puppies