1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

The new dog import rules from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that went into effect on August 1, 2024 are excessively strict in regards to barring the entry of dogs under 6 months of age from all countries, even those classified as low-risk for canine rabies. While efforts to protect public health from zoonotic diseases like rabies are understandable, this blanket prohibition fails to account for the negligible risk posed by fully vaccinated puppies imported from rabies-free or low incidence nations. Dog owners and breeders who frequently travel internationally with their animals for shows, training, veterinary care or breeding face undue burdens from this policy that does not align with actual risk levels. The CDC should re-evaluate the scientific evidence and consider adopting reasonable exceptions that allow importation of dogs under 6 months from certified low-risk rabies regions, provided they meet vaccination and other health documentation requirements. Continuing an inflexible approach disproportionately impacts responsible dog owners and hobbyists despite their demonstrated commitment to animal health and following proper protocols. A more nuanced policy is warranted.