The United States is among the most strictly regulated destinations for pet importation, particularly for dogs arriving from high rabies-risk countries such as Vietnam. 

To help you navigate the process, Trustana has compiled all essential requirements and procedures below. 


1. Rabies Risk Classification by the United States 

The U.S. classifies countries into two main categories: 

🔴 High Rabies-Risk Countries: Vietnam, China, India, Brazil, Russia, Thailand, etc. 

🔵 Rabies-Free / Low-Risk Countries: All remaining countries 

👉 This classification directly impacts import procedures, documentation, and quarantine requirements, especially for dogs. 



2. Export Documentation Preparation for Pets 

📍 To ensure your pet meets both export and U.S. import requirements, the following documents are required: 

- Microchip: Pets must be implanted with an ISO-compliant microchip for identification. This must be done prior to rabies vaccination to ensure document validity.  

- Rabies Vaccination Certificate: Must be valid and clearly documented, including microchip number, vaccination date, and vaccine details.  

- RNATT (Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Test): Confirms sufficient rabies antibody levels and is critical to avoid mandatory quarantine upon arrival.  

- Parasite Treatment: Required treatment for internal and external parasites prior to departure.  

- Health Certificate: Issued by a licensed veterinarian, certifying the pet is fit for international transport.  

- Export Quarantine Certificate: Issued by the competent veterinary authority, confirming compliance with export regulations.  

- Transit Permit (if applicable): Required depending on transit country regulations. 

- Pet Health Book / Medical Record: Includes full vaccination and treatment history.  


📍 Important Notes: 

- Minimum age: 6 months or older  

- Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Bulldog, Pug) are typically restricted from air cargo and must travel in-cabin with the owner  


3. CDC Import Requirements (United States) 

🐾 For Dogs: 

- Mandatory CDC Dog Import Form (submitted before departure)  

- Reservation at a CDC-Registered Animal Care Facility  

- Valid microchip and rabies vaccination records  

- Based on RNATT status: 

✅ With RNATT: 

→ Health check and rabies booster administered upon arrival in the U.S. 

❌ Without RNATT: 

→ Subject to mandatory 28-day quarantine (high cost) 


🐾 For Cats: Cats are not subject to CDC rabies import regulations. 

- Required documents include: 

- Health Certificate  

- Basic vaccination records

  

4. Approved U.S. Airports for Pet Importation 

🐾 For Dogs (from high-risk countries): 

Entry is restricted to 6 CDC-approved airports with Animal Care Facilities: 

- ATL - Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport  

- LAX - Los Angeles International Airport  

- MIA - Miami International Airport  

- JFK - John F. Kennedy International Airport  

- PHL - Philadelphia International Airport  

- IAD - Washington Dulles International Airport  

👉 Advance reservation at a CDC-registered facility is mandatory prior to departure. 


🐾 For Cats: Cats may enter through any U.S. airport. 




📍Conclusion 

Pet relocation to the United States is not just a transportation process-it requires strict compliance with international veterinary and regulatory standards. 

Proper preparation helps you: 

- Avoid entry refusal  

- Minimize unexpected costs  

- Ensure a safe and smooth journey for your pet  


✅ Trustana is ready to support you throughout the entire pet relocation process, from documentation to end-to-end logistics execution. 

🇻🇳 Trustana Logistics | mkt@trustana.vn 

✈️ 24/7/365 Help Desk: aog@trustana.vn | (+84) 966 814 138