Press Releases

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) released the following statement regarding the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announcing updates to new rules for dog-owners crossing the border. 

(Congressman Kennedy on the House floor welcoming changes to the new rule.) 

“Today’s announcement that the CDC will implement changes to its proposed rules is welcome news for border communities like mine that would otherwise face an unnecessary burden crossing into Canada. While there’s more work to be done to address the long-term requirements in a way that will give dog owners peace of mind, this is a positive first step. There are roughly 400,000 crossings between Canada and the United States daily—many of which take place in my district, which has four vehicular bridges into Canada—amplifying the negative impact these rules may have on travel and commerce. I will continue to work to ensure that the final rule does not increase processing time, create longer border backups, or diminish economic returns.” 

Background: 

In May, Congressman Kennedy sent a letter to the CDC expressing concern that the new pet travel rule would place an undue burden on dog-owners in border communities. In July, Congressman Kennedy joined a bipartisan letter requesting the CDC pause the new rule going into effect. 

Specifically, the new CDC rule still requires dogs to be at least 6 months old and have a microchip to cross the border. There are no longer requirements for the rabies vaccination. The CDC dog import form can be submitted once, is valid for 6 months, and can be submitted online.

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