If you want to bring home a pet dog or cat purchased abroad, here are some things to remember, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which regulates the importation of animals:
*Dogs and cats are subject to inspection at ports of entry and could be denied entrance if they are found to have an infectious disease that humans could catch.
*Though dogs and cats don’t need a general certificate of health to enter the United States, some airlines or states may require one.
*If a dog or cat appears sick, the owner will have to pay to have a licensed veterinarian examine it.
*Dog owners must provide a certificate proving that their pet has been vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days prior to entering the United States, CDC officials say.
*If a dog hasn’t been vaccinated, it can still be admitted if the owner agrees to have it confined for at least 30 days.
*If a dog is too young to be vaccinated, it must remain in confinement until vaccinated and for 30 days afterward.
*Vaccinations aren’t required for importation of cats; however, some states require that cats be vaccinated for rabies. Check with local authorities.
