Despite any previous suggestions or concerns, rest assured that your family pet is more than welcome to join you on your road trip to the USA. With over 60% of snowbirds bringing their pets along, it’s important to be aware of a few updated entry requirements to ensure a smooth journey.
Crossing the Border into the USA
As pets from Canada come from a low-risk rabies country, there are a few specific rules to follow. Your dog must:
- Be in good health
- Be over six months of age
- Be microchipped
A new requirement for 2024 is the need to complete the CDC Dog Import Form online prior to your trip. This is something you must do, not your veterinarian. It’s similar to the process used during the COVID-19 pandemic when proof of vaccination was required. After completing the form, you’ll receive a receipt that you must present when crossing the border.
Check out this page for the form and submit it to the CDC. In turn you will receive a receipt which must be submitted to the border guard. https://cdc-786687.workflowcloud.com/forms/090dc543-7b2f-4538-b2c7-2919d12ecc73
For those traveling with exotic pets or breeding animals, it’s essential to check regulations from both the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for specific import requirements.
Pet-Friendly Hotels
Fortunately, an increasing number of hotels in the USA are pet-friendly. However, it’s always best to call ahead before booking to confirm their pet policy. Some hotels are more accommodating than others, offering better services and lower fees. Many hotels also have restrictions on the size, breed, and number of pets allowed, so it’s wise to verify these details in advance.
Road Conditions and Accommodations
Some major routes heading south from Canada were severely damaged by Hurricane Helene. Before starting your trip, check Google or Apple Maps to ensure your usual route is open and in good condition. This advice also extends to accommodations, as many people displaced by the hurricane are still staying in hotels and motels. Be sure to call ahead to confirm vacancies along your route, especially if you’re traveling through areas affected by the hurricane.
Additional Tips for Traveling with Pets
- Comfort and Safety: Make sure your pet is comfortable during the trip. Bring along their favorite bedding, toys, and treats. Frequent breaks are also essential to keep your pet happy and healthy.
- Identification: Ensure your pet has proper identification, such as a collar with tags and, ideally, a microchip with up-to-date contact information.
- Pet Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing pet travel insurance in case of emergencies during your journey.
By following these tips and requirements, you’ll have a hassle-free trip with your furry companion to the USA. Remember though. Snowbird Accidents have been helping travellers for over 40 years. If an accident happens we are there to help: Snowbirdaccidents @yahoo.com. Where Travel and Safety meet.
Cross border accidents and claims are very complicated – when help is needed call the free snowbird hotline.” Use phone number and email.
Helping Snowbirds Injured Across North America
For over 40 years, we’ve been helping Canadians involved in car accidents and other personal injury incidents while traveling in the United States. Each year, millions of snowbirds-residents from Canada (and the northern U.S.A) – head south to escape the cold. Unfortunately, accidents happen. When they do we are here to help navigate the legal and insurance challenges that arise.
Cross Border Accidents and claims are very complicated!
Call the Free Snowbird Helpline 1-800-587-6992
Or Email – snowbirdaccidents@yahoo.com,
Or https://snowbirdaccidents.com/contact/
