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Congress·In Committee·10 months ago

New Health Rules for Importing Dogs

Also known as: Healthy Dog Importation Act

Legislative Progress

Filed
Review
House
Senate
President

Key Points

  • This bill requires anyone bringing a dog into the United States to provide electronic proof that the animal is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. A licensed veterinarian must sign off on these records before the dog is allowed to travel.
  • Dogs being brought into the country for sale or adoption must be at least 6 months old and have a special import permit. This is designed to prevent the trade of very young puppies that may be sick or too weak to travel long distances.
  • Every imported dog must have a permanent way to identify them, such as a microchip. This helps government officials track the animal's health history and ensure they match their medical paperwork.
  • There are exceptions for families traveling with their own pets, military working dogs, and dogs used for scientific research. These groups will not have to follow the same strict requirements as commercial importers.
  • If an importer breaks these rules, they will be responsible for the costs of the dog's medical care, quarantine, or the expense of sending the dog back to its home country.

Milestones

2 milestones2 actions
May 13, 2025House

Referred to the House Committee on Agriculture.

May 13, 2025

Introduced in House

Source Information

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

Healthy Dog Importation Act

Bill NumberHR 3349
Congress119th Congress
ChamberHouse of Representatives
Latest ActionReferred to the House Committee on Agriculture.

Sponsor

Cosponsors

(10)
D: 5R: 5

Analysis generated by AI. While we strive for accuracy, this should not be considered legal or professional advice. Always verify information with official government sources.