Navigating the CDC's New Dog Importation Regulations: What Pet Owners Need to Know

For pet owners planning to bring dogs into the United States, recent changes to the CDC’s dog importation regulations have introduced new challenges. Effective August 1, 2024, these updates aim to enhance public safety and prevent the spread of rabies. However, navigating these rules can be daunting without the right guidance. Rue’s Kennels at LAX, a CDC-approved facility, is here to simplify the process and ensure a smooth importation experience for both you and your furry friend.

Understanding the New CDC Dog Importation Regulations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) implemented updated dog importation rules to address concerns about rabies risks. These regulations apply to dogs entering the U.S. from high-risk rabies countries, whether for the first time or after spending time abroad. The new requirements include:


1. Pre-Approval for Importation

  • All dogs entering the U.S. must have pre-approval from the CDC. This process involves submitting an application at least 30 days before the planned entry date. Approval is contingent upon meeting vaccination and health certificate requirements.


2. Rabies Vaccination Documentation

  • Dogs must have a valid rabies vaccination certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian in their home country. The certificate must include the dog’s age, vaccination date, and expiration date.


3. Microchip Requirement

  • Dogs must be microchipped for identification purposes. The microchip details must match the vaccination certificate to ensure traceability.


4. Quarantine for Dogs Without Proper Documentation

  • Dogs without proper documentation or those arriving from countries classified as high-risk may require a 28-day quarantine period at a CDC-approved facility, such as Rue’s Kennels at LAX.


5. Age Restriction

  • Puppies under four months of age are not permitted entry, as they cannot yet receive a complete rabies vaccination series.

How These Changes Impact Pet Owners

For dog owners, these changes mean additional planning, paperwork, and strict adherence to timelines. Missing documentation or delays in the pre-approval process could result in denied entry for your pet or extended quarantine periods.



Travelers and expatriates from high-risk countries are particularly affected, as the new rules require them to provide more robust evidence of their dog’s health and vaccination history. Fortunately, facilities like Rue’s Kennels at LAX play a critical role in bridging the gap between compliance and convenience.

How Rue’s Kennels at LAX Assists Pet Owners

As a CDC-approved animal care facility, Rue’s Kennels specializes in helping pet owners navigate these complex regulations. Whether you’re relocating, returning from a trip, or importing a dog for the first time, Rue’s Kennels provides comprehensive services to ensure compliance with CDC requirements.


1. Pre-Arrival Consultation and Documentation Support

Rue’s Kennels offers pre-arrival consultations to help you understand the necessary documentation and prepare for the importation process. Their team ensures you:

  • Obtain the correct rabies vaccination certificate.
  • Verify your dog’s microchip registration.
  • Submit your CDC pre-approval application accurately and on time.


This proactive approach minimizes the risk of errors or delays, which can be costly and stressful for pet owners.


2. Quarantine Services

Dogs arriving without valid documentation or from high-risk countries may require quarantine. Rue’s Kennels provides a state-of-the-art quarantine facility designed for the comfort and well-being of your pet.

  • Comfortable Environment: Spacious kennels, clean surroundings, and proper ventilation ensure pets are comfortable during their stay.
  • Professional Care: Trained staff monitor pets daily, providing food, water, exercise, and social interaction.
  • Health Monitoring: Routine checks ensure dogs remain healthy throughout their quarantine period.


3. Collaboration with the CDC

Rue’s Kennels works closely with the CDC to streamline the importation process. Their team ensures all necessary paperwork is submitted and follows up with the CDC on your behalf. This partnership reduces the administrative burden on pet owners.


4. Stress-Free Travel Experience

Located conveniently near LAX, Rue’s Kennels simplifies travel logistics. Pet owners can drop off their dogs before departure or pick them up upon arrival, knowing they are in safe hands.

Tips for Pet Owners Navigating CDC Regulations

1. Plan Well in Advance

Start the importation process at least 60 days before your planned travel date. This allows sufficient time to gather documentation, complete vaccinations, and submit your CDC application.


2. Double-Check Documentation

Ensure your rabies vaccination certificate includes all required details, including the dog’s name, vaccination date, expiration date, and the veterinarian’s information. Verify that your dog’s microchip ID matches the certificate.


3. Understand High-Risk Country Designations

Familiarize yourself with the CDC’s list of high-risk countries. If you’re traveling to or from these locations, additional steps may be required to ensure compliance.


4. Choose a CDC-Approved Facility Like Rue’s Kennels

Selecting a trusted facility simplifies the process and ensures your pet receives the best care. Rue’s Kennels is equipped to handle the specific needs of imported dogs, from quarantine to compliance checks.


5. Communicate with Airlines

Confirm your airline’s pet travel policies, as some may have additional requirements. Ensure you understand crate specifications, travel fees, and booking procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions About CDC Dog Importation Regulations

1. What happens if my dog arrives without the proper documentation?

Dogs without valid documentation may be required to stay in quarantine for up to 28 days at a CDC-approved facility. Rue’s Kennels ensures your pet is cared for during this time.


2. Can I import a dog younger than four months?

No, the CDC prohibits the importation of puppies under four months due to incomplete rabies vaccination status.


3. How do I know if my country is considered high-risk for rabies?

The CDC maintains a list of high-risk countries on its website. If your country is on this list, additional requirements will apply.


4. How does Rue’s Kennels ensure my dog’s safety during quarantine?

Rue’s Kennels provides 24/7 monitoring, routine health checks, and a comfortable environment for dogs in quarantine. Their trained staff ensures your pet’s well-being throughout the process.

Why Choose Rue’s Kennels at LAX?

Navigating the CDC’s dog importation regulations can be overwhelming, but Rue’s Kennels is here to help. With years of experience and CDC approval, they provide:


  • Expert Guidance: From pre-arrival consultation to quarantine services, their team ensures compliance at every step.
  • Convenience: Located near LAX, Rue’s Kennels simplifies logistics for travelers.
  • Peace of Mind: Your pet’s health, safety, and comfort are their top priorities.


By choosing Rue’s Kennels, you gain a partner dedicated to making the importation process as seamless as possible.

Final Thoughts

The CDC’s updated dog importation regulations are designed to protect public health, but they can pose challenges for pet owners. By understanding the rules and working with trusted partners like Rue’s Kennels at LAX, you can ensure a smooth experience for both you and your pet.



If you’re planning to import a dog to the U.S., don’t leave anything to chance. Contact Rue’s Kennels today to learn how they can assist with every step of the process. With their expertise and support, navigating these regulations has never been easier.

share this

Related Articles

Related Articles

March 24, 2025
Traveling internationally with a dog comes with a unique set of challenges, especially if you're entering or leaving the U.S. through Los Angeles. Between government regulations, health inspections, vaccination paperwork, and ever-changing rules from the CDC, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s exactly why Rue’s Kennels at LAX exists—to make the journey smoother, safer, and less stressful for both dogs and their humans. Rue’s Kennels isn’t just another boarding facility. They are a CDC-approved Animal Care Facility, bonded by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, with USDA registration and veterinary staff on-site. What does that mean for you? It means they’re fully equipped and authorized to receive, care for, and process dogs entering or exiting the U.S., especially from high-risk rabies countries. And more importantly, it means you don’t have to figure out the importation process alone. From the moment your dog arrives in the U.S. at LAX, Rue’s takes over the complicated parts—handling everything from inspections and vaccination reviews to quarantine (if required) and follow-up veterinary care. Their facility isn’t just built for compliance—it’s designed to keep dogs safe, calm, and well cared for during what could otherwise be a stressful transition. But Rue’s goes beyond paperwork and protocols. They’ve built a reputation on personalized care and open communication. Whether you’re relocating permanently, sending a dog for adoption, or traveling short-term, they walk you through each step so you’re not left guessing what to do next. That kind of support makes all the difference. They also offer daycare, boarding, pet transportation, and mobile grooming. So whether your needs are long-term or just for the day, Rue’s makes sure your pet is looked after by a knowledgeable and compassionate team.  When you’re navigating something as complex as international dog travel, you need a partner you can trust. Rue’s Kennels at LAX is that partner. With all the proper licenses, 24/7 staff, and a commitment to animal welfare, they turn a complicated process into a smooth arrival. If your dog’s journey starts or ends at LAX, Rue’s is ready to make sure it’s a safe and comfortable one.
March 19, 2025
If you're a dog owner in the Los Angeles area, you know how important it is to have a reliable place to take your pup when life gets busy. Whether you're heading out of town, need a full day of care, or just want your dog to enjoy some social time, finding a facility you trust is key. That's where Rue’s Kennels at LAX comes in. Conveniently located near Los Angeles International Airport, Rue’s Kennels isn’t just a stopover for traveling pets. They offer full-service doggy daycare and boarding designed to give your dog the same love and attention you would—maybe even a little extra pampering, too. Let’s break down what makes their daycare and boarding services so valuable for LA dog owners. At Rue’s, doggy daycare is all about flexibility and fun. Whether you’re looking for a quick half-day solution or a full-day option, they have plans that fit around your schedule. Daycare runs daily from 8 am to 6 pm, giving you a full day’s coverage if needed. You can choose between two different daycare styles: individual or group. If your dog prefers a quieter environment or doesn’t do well in social settings, the individual stay is a great choice. It gives them their own relaxing kennel space and includes two 20-minute walks to get some fresh air and exercise. On the other hand, if your dog is the social butterfly of the dog park, group daycare offers a more interactive experience. Dogs get to enjoy indoor and outdoor areas, burn energy, play with other pups, and stay engaged throughout the day. Both options are priced the same. For up to four hours, it’s $30 for your first dog and $25 for a second dog. If your pup stays more than four hours, it’s $50 and $40 respectively. You can also purchase a 10-day package at a discount, which is perfect for busy dog parents who need reliable weekly care. Now, for those longer trips or overnight stays, Rue’s boarding service really shines. Their overnight boarding is available for $75 for the first dog and $50 for any additional dogs from the same household. The rate includes a full night’s stay, and if you’re able to pick your dog up before 10 am the next day, you avoid any additional daycare fees. That flexibility means you’re not paying more than you need to, which is a nice change from many other boarding facilities in LA that charge by the calendar day. Beyond just providing a place to stay, Rue’s ensures dogs are comfortable, stimulated, and well-cared for. Their staff understands that being away from home can be stressful for pets, especially if it’s their first time boarding. That’s why their team focuses on consistent routines, one-on-one care, and maintaining a clean, calm environment that helps dogs relax and settle in quickly. One of the biggest things that sets Rue’s Kennels apart is their attention to health and safety. All dogs that attend daycare or stay overnight must be up to date on core vaccinations. That includes rabies, DAPP, Bordetella, and canine influenza. These vaccinations help keep the entire facility safe for every dog that walks through the door. And while it’s not required, they also highly recommend the leptospirosis vaccine to further protect your pup. For added convenience, Rue’s offers mobile grooming services so your dog can leave looking even better than they arrived. If you’re boarding for a few days and want your dog to have a fresh bath before pick-up, you can schedule that ahead of time. It’s a small detail, but it goes a long way in showing how thoughtful and full-service their operation is. And if you don’t live right down the street, Rue’s even provides pet transportation services using their kennel van. For $5 per mile, they’ll come to you and safely bring your pet to their Inglewood facility. This is especially helpful for pet parents who live in surrounding areas like Culver City or those without easy access to transportation. For dog owners who frequently travel, especially those flying in or out of LAX, this place is a game changer. You can drop your dog off on the way to the airport, knowing they’re not just being “watched” but cared for. Whether your pup loves to play or prefers solo relaxation, there’s a program tailored to them. And when you return, there’s no long drive across town—just swing by, grab your happy and tired pup, and head home. What’s also refreshing is how clear and upfront Rue’s is about pricing. Everything is listed, including the cost for additional dogs, extended stays, and package options. There are no hidden fees or last-minute surprises, which any seasoned pet owner will appreciate. The team at Rue’s has built a reputation not just for being close to LAX, but for genuinely caring about the dogs they look after. It’s not uncommon for customers to share stories about how their anxious or reactive dogs were treated with patience and compassion. That level of care isn’t easy to find—especially in a city as fast-paced as LA.  So if you’re looking for a trusted doggy daycare and boarding provider in Los Angeles, Rue’s Kennels at LAX is well worth checking out. Whether it’s a half-day of play, an overnight stay, or an extended vacation, they’ll keep your dog safe, happy, and well cared for while you handle life, work, or travel.
March 6, 2025
Planning your spring break getaway? While you're dreaming of sandy beaches, mountain adventures, or city exploration, there's one important family member you might be wondering about: your beloved dog. Gone are the days of stressing over pet care during your vacation. Professional dog boarding isn't just an option – it's the smartest choice for both you and your four-legged companion.
ALL ARTICLES

STAY UP TO DATE

GET PATH'S LATEST

Receive bi-weekly updates from the church, and get a heads up on upcoming events.

Contact Us

Share by: