According to IPATA (International Pet and Animal Transport Association), international travelers transport more than four million pets around the world by air each year. And with 189,000 annual land border crossings (2023) from Canada to the United States, we can assume that a significant number of vehicles are boarding Kitty or Kitty.
Here is helpful information on how to have a great stay in Florida with your pet, where to keep them and how to get involved with local animal societies.
New Entry Requirements for Dogs in the United States
Since August 1, 2024, new requirements for entry into the United States for dogs coming from Canada have been implemented by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
On social media, the Government of Canada has urged Canadians travelling to the United States to review their travel advisories for more information: https://voyage.gc.ca/destinations/etats-unis#entreesortie
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Operations, to cross into the United States, “dogs must:
You look healthy when you arrive;
Be at least six months old;
Be a microchip;
Be sure to bring a receipt to submit the CDC's online dog import form for entry into the United States.
Additionally, proof of rabies vaccination may be required depending on where the dog has been within the past six months and whether it has been vaccinated.
For dogs coming from countries with a high risk of rabies, they must be protected against rabies.
View a list of countries and political entities considered at high risk for importation of dog rabies into the United States:
www.cdc.gov/importation/dogs/high-risk-countries.html
Bringing a Pet Cat to the United States
According to www.aphis.usda.gov, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service does not impose any animal health requirements when a pet cat is brought into the United States from a foreign country. However, according to www.cdc.gov, the CDC requires that cats “appear healthy upon arrival in the United States.” Cats are subject to inspection at ports of entry and may be denied entry into the United States if they show signs of zoonotic disease, a contagious disease that affects animals and can be transmitted to humans. If a cat appears sick, additional examination by a licensed veterinarian, at the owner’s expense, may be necessary before the cat is allowed to enter the United States.
Also, cats are not required to have proof of rabies vaccination to enter the United States. However, the CDC recommends that all cats be vaccinated against rabies.
pet sitting
Once you arrive in Florida with your pets, you may need a “vacation”! It’s good to know that there are pet care companies all over the state like Fetch Pet Care! Whether it’s finding a dog walker, taking care of your pet at home or at a hotel, or even administering medication to your pet, you’ll find the help you need there.
Dog volunteer
Each year, the nonprofit Tri County Animal Rescue (Boca Raton) works to prevent the euthanasia of more than 270,000 abandoned animals in Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties. www.tricountyanimalrescue.com
As with any organization, volunteer participation plays a crucial role in its day-to-day operations. So, if you want to contribute to the overall well-being of animals in your community, you can become a dog walker! Applicants must be at least 18 years old and provide proof of identification and health insurance. When asked, “Can a Florida visitor (e.g., a Canadian snowshoe) become a dog walker if they have travel health insurance?” Tri County Animal Rescue responded to The Florida Sun: “Yes, as long as your insurance is current while you volunteer.”
For the proper protocols, rules and regulations for becoming a dog walker, email [email protected]. Here are some important points:
– The non-profit organization is looking for committed volunteers (at least one hour per week for one month);
– Walking dogs at the shelter;
– Ability to lift and carry dogs weighing 15 pounds or less;
-Speak and understand English.
– Attendance at a mandatory meeting.
It also states: * “We do not know the history of 99.9% of our dogs; whether they were abused or neglected; […] They are learning to trust again. Lots of patience! »
cat room helpers
Tri County Animal Rescue is also looking for volunteers as cat room helpers. You can play a vital role in maintaining a clean and healthy environment while giving some love to these cats looking for a family.
