Effective August 1, 2024, the CDC has implemented new regulations for bringing dogs into the United States, focusing on preventing the reintroduction of dog rabies. All air carriers (including commercial, charter, and private aircraft) must comply with specific requirements regarding air waybills (AWB) and documentation.

Waiver Process Overview

Air carriers lacking the technical ability to generate AWBs must obtain and maintain a CDC Airway Bill Waiver through the following process:

1. Initial Provisional Waiver
   • Contact CDC at cdcanimalimports@cdc.gov to request a provisional waiver
   • Once granted, carriers can transport dogs as hand-carried or excess baggage without an AWB
   • All provisional waivers remain valid through February 1, 2025
2. Waiver Extension Requirements
   • Submit extension request before February 1, 2025
   • Complete provided template using company letterhead
   • Attach required flow chart
   • Email materials to: CDCanimalimports@cdc.gov

After review of the complete application, CDC will decide whether to extend the waiver beyond February 1, 2025. If the waiver is not extended or if air carriers fail to complete the application process, they must create a bill of lading (AWB) for every dog transported to the United States.

Key Responsibilities for Aircraft Operators

CDC DOGBOT Tool Implementation

• Understand Documentation Requirements: Use the CDC DOGBOT tool to identify high/low risk countries and understand necessary documentation for each scenario
• Ensure Client Compliance: Verify dog-owning clients have completed all required paperwork before boarding

Documentation Requirements

• For High-Risk Countries:
  • Rabies Vaccination records
  • Microchip number verification
  • All supporting documentation must be provided to the operator
• Documentation Verification: All paperwork must be reviewed before boarding

Business Aviation Considerations

United Industry Approach

Business aviation operators must present a united front regarding AWB requirements:

• Submit consistent, standardized responses
• Support industry advocacy for permanent exemptions for Business and General Aviation
• Coordinate with industry associations

CBP and CDC Coordination

Clearance Procedures

• CDC PHS Escalation: CBP officers will escalate questions to CDC PHS office
• 24/7 Availability: CDC PHS office provides round-the-clock support
• Contact Information: Access the CDC Port Health Stations Directory

Required Documentation for Waiver Extension

1. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

Air carriers must submit detailed SOPs on company letterhead including:

1. a) Documentation Verification Process

• Procedures for confirming required documentation before boarding
• May include checklists or employee training materials

1. b) Non-Compliant Dog Handling

• Procedures for handling ill, injured, or abandoned dogs
• Protocol for dogs denied entry or pending admissibility determination
• Process for returning dogs to country of departure or achieving compliance

1. c) Care Protocols

• Procedures for managing dogs requiring temporary care
• Details on coordination with CDC-registered animal care facilities
• Alternative care options (local kennels, veterinary hospitals)

1. d) Facility Requirements

• List of approved housing facilities for each port of entry
• Must include CDC-registered ACFs or suitable alternatives

1. e) Financial Responsibility

• Payment procedures for temporary care and services
• Instructions for local staff regarding payment requests
• Process for seeking reimbursement from importers
• Protocols for handling abandoned dogs

2. Management Contact Information

• Regional air carrier management contacts
• Oversight responsibilities for cargo and passenger processes
• Emergency contact procedures

Helpful Resources

Official CDC Links

• CDC Dog Importation Information
• CDC Dog Import Form
• Instructions for Form Completion
• Rabies Vaccination and Certification Requirements
• CDC-Registered Animal Care Facilities
• CDC Port Health Stations and Jurisdictions

Contact Information

For additional guidance or clarification:

• Email: cdcanimalimports@cdc.gov
• CDC Emergency Operations Center
• Local PHS offices