Since learning of new U.S. guidelines regarding the importation of puppies from rabies-positive countries, effective August 11, 2014, as set out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the CKC has reached out to various organizations for further comment and information to best support our position and to pursue exceptions to these new directives that so significantly affect our member breeders and their puppies.
The guidelines call for stricter enforcement of CDC’s Dog Importation Regulations requiring that dogs be fully immunized against rabies before being imported into the U.S. The rabies vaccination must be administered no earlier than 12 weeks of age of the dog and at least 30 days before arrival at a U.S. port of entry. Therefore, the youngest that a puppy may be imported to the U.S. is four months of age.
With an invitation to enter into a dialogue with the CDC, CKC Executive Director Lance Novak has introduced CKC membership among favourable criteria for special consideration in a letter to Acting Chief Dr. Adam Langer. To read Mr. Novak’s letter, click here.
Please watch for further updates as we work to find a resolution.