Traveling internationally with your dog can be an exciting yet daunting process. Whether you’re relocating, vacationing, or adopting a dog from abroad, bringing your pet from Medellín, Colombia to the U.S. requires thorough planning and preparation to comply with various regulations. This guide will walk you through the required steps, forms, breed restrictions, and medical examinations needed to safely bring your dog into the U.S.
Step 1: Understand U.S. Import Requirements
The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) oversee the importation of animals, including dogs. Before bringing your dog into the U.S., it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the requirements, which may vary depending on the state you’re traveling to.
1. CDC Rabies Vaccination Requirements
As of December 2021, the CDC has classified Colombia as a high-risk country for dog rabies. This means that strict rabies vaccination requirements are in place. If your dog has been in Colombia within the past 6 months, you must follow these regulations:
- Rabies Vaccination Certificate: Your dog must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate, issued by a licensed veterinarian.
- The vaccine must have been administered at least 28 days before travel if it’s the dog’s first vaccination.
- Dogs must be at least 12 weeks old to receive the rabies vaccine.
- Rabies Titer Test (Rabies Serologic Test): Dogs entering from high-risk countries may be required to have a rabies titer test to demonstrate sufficient levels of rabies antibodies.
- This test must be done at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination and at least 45 days before entering the U.S.
- Approved laboratories for rabies titer testing include those recognized by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE).
- CDC Dog Import Permit: You may also need to apply for a CDC Dog Import Permit if your dog is traveling from a high-risk country. You can apply for the permit online, but it must be submitted at least 30 days before travel.
2. USDA-APHIS Health Certificate
In addition to rabies vaccinations, your dog needs a health certificate endorsed by the USDA-APHIS. Here are the steps to obtain it:
- Visit a licensed Colombian veterinarian who is accredited by ICA (Instituto Colombiano Agropecuario).
- Request a health certificate (Certificado de Salud Animal). The vet will examine your dog and confirm that it’s healthy and free of contagious diseases.
- The certificate must be issued within 10 days of travel.
- You’ll then need to submit the health certificate to ICA for endorsement.
- After obtaining the Colombian health certificate, you must have it endorsed by USDA-APHIS before travel. This can be done through their website by uploading the documents or visiting a USDA-APHIS office in person.
Note: The health certificate should include proof of vaccinations for distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, and other standard dog vaccines.
3. Microchip
A microchip is not mandatory to bring your dog into the U.S., but it’s highly recommended for identification purposes. If your dog already has a microchip, make sure the information is up to date and can be read by a U.S. microchip reader (ISO-compliant). This will also make it easier to locate your dog if it gets lost.
Step 2: Check Airline-Specific Pet Travel Rules
Each airline has its own rules for transporting pets, so it’s important to choose an airline that allows pet travel and meets your dog’s needs. Most airlines require:
- A valid health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.
- Proof of vaccinations.
- Your dog must be in a USDA-approved crate or kennel.
Some airlines offer two pet transport options:
- In-Cabin: Small dogs can travel in the cabin with you, but they must be in a soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat.
- Cargo: Larger dogs must travel in the cargo hold, in a sturdy, well-ventilated kennel.
Airline Travel Tips:
- Book your flight well in advance and notify the airline that you’ll be traveling with a dog.
- Ensure the crate complies with airline specifications (sufficient ventilation, secure doors, proper size).
- Some airlines limit pet transport during extreme temperatures, so plan your trip accordingly to avoid delays.
Step 3: Ensure Your Dog is Fit for Travel
Veterinary Examinations and Health Checkups
Before the journey, make sure your dog is in good health and fit to travel. Schedule a full checkup with your veterinarian in Medellín to ensure your dog has all the necessary vaccinations and paperwork. Be sure to:
- Update vaccinations, especially rabies.
- Obtain a deworming certificate (some U.S. states require this).
- Ask your vet for a fitness-to-fly letter, especially if your dog is older or has health conditions.
Additionally, prepare for potential stress and anxiety your dog might experience during the flight. Speak to your veterinarian about possible sedation, or more commonly recommended, natural anti-anxiety remedies.
Step 4: Breed Restrictions and U.S. State-Specific Regulations
1. Breed-Specific Bans
The U.S. has no federal-level breed-specific legislation, but some states, cities, and municipalities have laws banning or restricting certain breeds. Commonly banned or restricted breeds include:
- Pit Bull Terriers (and mixes)
- Rottweilers
- Doberman Pinschers
- American Staffordshire Terriers
- German Shepherds
If you’re moving to or traveling through an area with breed-specific bans, you may be denied entry with your dog, or local authorities may impose restrictions such as mandatory muzzling or special insurance requirements. It’s important to research the specific state or city regulations beforehand.
2. State-Specific Health Regulations
While most U.S. states adhere to federal regulations, some states impose additional requirements for incoming pets, such as:
- Deworming: Some states require proof of deworming (especially for hookworms and tapeworms).
- Spaying/Neutering: Certain states may require you to show proof that your dog is spayed or neutered.
Check with the state’s Department of Agriculture or a local USDA-APHIS office for specific requirements.
Step 5: U.S. Customs and Entry Process
Upon arrival in the U.S., you will go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Be prepared to present the following documents:
- Rabies vaccination certificate
- Health certificate issued by the Colombian vet and endorsed by USDA-APHIS
- Rabies titer test results (if applicable)
- CDC Dog Import Permit (if applicable)
Customs officials may inspect your dog to ensure it is healthy and verify all documents. If everything is in order, your dog will be cleared for entry.
Step 6: After Arrival in the U.S.
Once your dog has entered the U.S., make sure to:
- Schedule a checkup with a local veterinarian within the first few weeks.
- Register your dog with the local animal control or licensing authority, as most states require pet registration.
- If your dog’s rabies vaccine is about to expire, schedule a booster shot with a U.S. vet.
Summary Checklist
- Rabies Vaccination Certificate (required).
- Rabies Titer Test (if necessary).
- CDC Dog Import Permit (if applicable).
- USDA-APHIS Health Certificate.
- Book a pet-friendly airline and obtain an approved travel crate.
- Ensure your dog is fit to fly (consult your vet).
- Research U.S. state-specific breed and health regulations.
By following these steps and ensuring you have the proper documentation, your dog’s entry into the U.S. from Medellín, Colombia should be a smooth and safe process. Plan early, stay organized, and ensure that your furry friend is comfortable throughout the journey. Safe travels!
