Information and Updates on the CDC Dog Importation Rules
In May, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new regulations regarding the importation of dogs into the United States. These new regulations are set to take effect on August 1, 2024 and will impact mushers entering the USA from Canada with their dogs to attend our race. The Can-Am Board has been working alongside other agencies and individuals to try and navigate these new rules and to lobby on behalf of our dog mushers for reasonable modifications.
This page has been set up to keep everyone advised of ongoing efforts and information regarding these new policies.
Status Update 30 October 2024
Many mushers expressed their concerns, stating that the costs and logistical challenges of meeting these requirements could prevent them from competing. Sarah Brooks, the Vice President of Can Am, and Katherine Langlais, the 2023 Can Am Crown 250 race winner, dedicated themselves to advocating for change. They engaged with U.S. and Canadian government officials, veterinarians, sled dog race organizers, mushers, and other stakeholders to raise awareness of the CDC rules and push for their reversal or modification. Thanks to their efforts, the CDC has temporarily relaxed some of these regulations. The current requirements are:- Dogs must be at least 6 months old.
- Dogs must appear healthy.
- Dogs must be microchipped.
- You must submit a CDC Dog Import Form for each dog.
- CDC's Revised Requirements for Dogs Coming Into The US
- CDC Dog Import Form for Submission
- List of information needed to complete the CDC Dog Import Form
- Sample of a completed CDC Dog Import Form
To help ensure that the CDC does not attempt to reimpose more problematic regulations, we encourage all involved in the sled dog community to stay informed and advocate for these necessary changes.