Introduction: Navigating the New Landscape of Pet Import Regulations

Navigating the world of international pet travel can be complex, and recent changes have added a critical new layer of requirements for owners. The CDC updated its rules for bringing dogs into the U.S. The new rules focus on stopping New World screwworm from coming back. These rules, designed to protect both animal and public health, affect every dog owner planning to bring their companion into the country. Understanding these changes is not just about avoiding delays at the border; it's about being a responsible pet owner and safeguarding the nation's health.

Why These New Rules Matter: Protecting Your Pet and the United States

The primary goal of any animal importation regulation is to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases from high-risk countries. The United States has removed several dangerous animal diseases. These include screwworm and canine rabies virus variant. This success came from many years of hard work. With approximately 1 million dogs imported to the United States annually before recent restrictions, the risk of reintroduction is constant. The new rules established by the CDC and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) are a proactive defense. Compliance ensures your pet’s safe and smooth entry and plays a vital role in protecting the country's livestock, wildlife, and public health from devastating and costly outbreaks.

What is screwworm and why is it a concern for imported pets?

New World screwworm is a parasitic fly whose larvae, or maggots, infest the open wounds of warm-blooded animals, including pets, livestock, and even humans. Unlike other maggots that consume dead tissue, screwworm larvae eat living flesh, creating larger wounds and severe, often fatal, infestations if left untreated. The United States officially eradicated screwworm in 1982, a major public health and agricultural victory.

The concern is that a single infested animal imported from high-risk countries into the United States could re-establish a breeding population, leading to a widespread outbreak (see USDA guidance on NWS here). The economic consequences would be catastrophic; the USDA estimates a screwworm outbreak in Texas alone could cost $1.9 billion annually. Animal cases are rising in nearby areas. For example, Mexico had over 3,050 cases by July 2025. This increases the risk to the United States. Therefore, strict rules for importing and inspecting pets are more important than ever.

Decoding the New CDC Screwworm Rules for Pet Imports

The updated regulations create a more unified framework for pet importation from high-risk countries, integrating requirements for both rabies and screwworm. Pet owners must follow a process with forms, health checks, and certificates from approved veterinarians.

The Core Requirement: Screwworm Freedom Certification

To keep screwworm from re-entering the United States, the USDA has requirements for dogs returning to the United States from high-risk countries. Proactive guidance prevents denied entry, delays, and client frustration.

For any dog that has been in a country or territory with screwworm (see the list here) in the six months prior to entering the United States, a new, non-negotiable requirement is in place:

The dog must have a certificate signed by a full-time, salaried government veterinarian from the country of export. This certificate must explicitly state:

1. The dog was inspected for screwworm within 5 days prior to shipment to the United States, and

2. The veterinarian must attest that the dog is either free from screwworm or was found to be infested, held in quarantine, and treated until it was fully healed and free of the parasite before leaving the country.

Getting this endorsement needs planning. It may require an appointment at a government veterinary office.

This certificate is in addition to the CDC Import Form any CDC dog import rules (e.g., rabies-related requirements based on country status). More Information can be found here: USDA Bring a Pet Dog into the United States

Regarding cats, while USDA APHIS does not have requirements for pet cats entering the U.S., they can still be inspected at ports of entry and denied entry if they appear ill with a disease of public health concern. Always check airline and state rules, too.

Passpaw is here to make these requirements clear and easy to follow, so practices and their clients can focus on safe and stress-free travel.

Arrival Procedures at U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Upon landing in the United States, you and your pet will proceed to the CBP inspection area. An officer will review your CDC Dog Import Form receipt and all supporting health certificates. They will perform a visual inspection of your dog and may scan its microchip. Be prepared with both digital and physical copies of all documents. If everything is in order, you will be cleared to enter the country. If there are discrepancies, you will be referred to an on-site CDC public health officer for further review.

Proactive Prevention and Best Practices for Pet Owners

Beyond the required paperwork, proactive health management is key to a successful import process.

Pre-Travel Preparations Beyond Paperwork

• Schedule a comprehensive wellness exam with your veterinarian. Discuss flea, tick, and internal parasite prevention, as a healthy pet is better equipped to handle the stress of travel.

• Check your dog daily for wounds, discharge, or foul odor. Seek veterinary care promptly in endemic areas

• Avoid high-risk exposure such as unsanitary environments, contact with untreated wounds in other animals

• Get your pet accustomed to its travel carrier well in advance to reduce anxiety on the day of the flight.

• Confirm all travel arrangements with your airline, as each carrier may have additional requirements beyond those mandated by the government.

Key Resources and Final Reminders

Staying informed is your best tool. The regulations can change, so always rely on official sources for the latest information.

Where to Find Official and Up-to-Date Information

The main sources for U.S. pet import rules are the CDC and USDA APHIS websites. These sites contain the most current regulations, downloadable forms, and lists of countries affected by rabies and screwworm. Do not rely on third-party websites or anecdotal advice, as outdated information can lead to costly mistakes.