Background

Effective August 1, 2024, the CDC implemented new regulations for bringing dogs into the United States to prevent the reintroduction of dog rabies. These regulations apply to all air carriers, including commercial, charter, and private aircraft.

Waiver Process Overview

Current Waiver Holders

Aircraft Operators with existing CDC Provisional Airway Bill (AWB) Waivers must file an extension request. To request the extension:

1. Complete the provided template using company letterhead
2. Attach the required flow chart
3. Email the request to: CDCanimalimports@cdc.gov

New Waiver Applicants

Air carriers lacking the technical ability to generate AWBs must:

1. Contact CDC at cdcanimalimports@cdc.gov to request a provisional waiver
2. Once granted, carriers can transport dogs as hand-carried or excess baggage without an AWB
3. All new waivers will remain valid through May 1, 2025

Note: If waivers are 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

• Use the CDC DOGBOT tool to identify high/low risk countries
• Understand necessary documentation requirements for each scenario
• 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
• All paperwork must be reviewed before boarding

Required Documentation for Waiver Extension

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)

Submit detailed SOPs on company letterhead including:

1. Documentation Verification Process
   • Procedures for confirming required documentation before boarding
   • May include checklists or employee training materials
2. 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
3. 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)
4. Facility Requirements
   • List of approved housing facilities for each port of entry
   • Must include CDC-registered ACFs or suitable alternatives
5. 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
6. Management Contact Information
   • Regional air carrier management contacts
   • Oversight responsibilities for cargo and passenger processes
   • Emergency contact procedures

Business Aviation Considerations

United Industry Approach

Business aviation operators must present a unified 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

• CBP officers will escalate questions to CDC PHS office
• CDC PHS office provides 24/7 support
• Reference the CDC Port Health Stations Directory for contact information

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