Moving to the USA with your beloved pet? The United States is a vibrant, pet-friendly country known for its diverse landscapes and welcoming communities. As the world’s largest economy with over 330 million people, the USA offers plenty of space and opportunities for families, including our furry family members. From bustling cities to national parks, the USA has something for everyone. Whether your destination is sunny California, historic New York, or friendly suburbs of Atlanta, you’ll find pet-friendly parks, trails, and pet communities.
At Sky Companion, we make sure your pet’s journey to the USA is as smooth and joyful as a walk in the park. Below you’ll find an overview of the USA’s pet import requirements, and how our expert team handles every step for a stress-free move.
USA Pet Import Requirements
Bringing pets into the USA involves specific health and documentation steps. Here are the key requirements to keep in mind:
- Microchip (ISO 11784/11785) – Your pet must be implanted with an ISO, compliant microchip (15-digit ISO standard) before any vaccinations. The microchip number is recorded on all official paperwork for identification.
- Rabies Vaccination – Every dog and cat must have a current, valid rabies vaccine. The shot must be administered at least 30 days before travel and not more than one year old at arrival. Your veterinarian will issue an official Rabies Certificate with details of the vaccine date, product, and vet information.
- Other Vaccinations – Keep general vaccinations up-to-date (e.g. DHPP/5 in 1 for dogs and feline 3,in,1 for cats) within the last year. These help protect your pet’s health during travel.
- Age Requirement – As of August 1, 2024, CDC regulations require dogs to be at least 6 months old for entry into the U.S. (even if coming from a rabies-free country). This is to ensure your dog can safely receive its first rabies shot and develop immunity. (Tip: Plan flights accordingly so your puppy can meet this age requirement.)
- Health Certificate (Veterinary Certificate) – A licensed veterinarian must complete a USDA Foreign rabies vaccination form that is endorsed by the South African Government, this is specific to dogs. A general USA health certificate is signed by your private vet (export certificate) confirming your pet is fit to fly and meets U.S. requirements. The completed health certificate is typically valid for 10 days from the date of issue.
- Rabies Titre Test (Dogs only) – Because South Africa is considered a high-risk country for rabies, dogs will require an official rabies antibody titre test. This blood test (done at an accredited lab, such as Intertek)- REMOVE must be drawn at least 30 days after the rabies vaccine, and show a result of 0.5 IU/ml or higher. Once passed, the titre is valid for life (as long as your rabies shots stay current). After the blood draw, there is a mandatory 28-day wait before travelling.
- CDC Import Permits/Quarantine – New U.S. rules now govern dogs from high, risk countries: instead of the old dog import permit, all dogs entering from South Africa must arrive through a CDC, approved port (e.g., JFK, LAX, ATL, MIA, IAD, PHL) and either have an approved titre test or a pre, booked 28 day quarantine at a CDC, registered animal care facility. (Sky Companion will explain these options and arrange any needed quarantine reservation for you.)
- Travel Booking – Pets must travel in IATA compliant carriers. Airlines flying to the USA typically allow cats or small dogs in the cabin (under the seat) if the carrier fits, or larger pets in the aircraft hold. We can arrange direct flights or minimal connections to reduce stress on your pet. – REMOVE
Each requirement helps keep your pet and others safe. We summarise all of the above in our detailed USA Pet Travel Requirements PDF, which is available for you to download. This handy checklist ensures nothing is missed before departure.
Why Choose Sky Companion?
How Sky Companion Makes the Process Easy
At Sky Companion, we’re more than a moving company; we’re your pet’s personal travel agent and guardian. Our dedicated team handles every detail of the USA relocation, so you can focus on your move. Here’s how we help:
- Expert Guidance & Documentation: We navigate the complex USA rules for you. Our experienced team will prepare and review your pet’s health certificate, vaccination records, and CDC forms, and apply for any necessary permits. You won’t have to guess what’s needed; we keep everything compliant and on time.
- Scheduling & Logistics: We coordinate all vet appointments, blood tests and crate needs. We also book flights tailored for pets, working with airlines to secure the best routing and attention to your pet’s comfort.
- Pet Handling & Care: Your pet’s well-being is our priority. We can arrange extra comforts (calming wraps, familiar toys) and ensure frequent checks. For larger pets travelling in the hold, we monitor crate conditions and liaise with ground staff at departure and arrival.
- Door-to-Door Service: From your home in South Africa to your new home in the USA, we take care of it all. Many clients appreciate our VIP service, where we pick up pets from your home or vet, escort them to the airport, and arrange arrival procedures. Our partners on the ground in the USA meet your pet to clear customs and deliver them safely to you.
- Personal Touch: We know every pet is unique. Whether you have a nervous cat or a playful puppy, we adjust our approach. You’ll have a single point of contact at Sky Companion who keeps you updated at each stage.
With Sky Companion, you get peace of mind and a truly stress-free move. Our passion is caring for pets as if they were our own, and it shows in our 5-star service.
Ready for a Seamless Move? Contact Us Today!
Don’t let paperwork or regulations slow you down. Contact Sky Companion for a free consultation and quote. Our friendly team is eager to walk you through the USA process and answer any questions.
- Free Quote: Send us your details, and we’ll provide a transparent quote covering everything (vets, flights, paperwork) – no surprises.
- Round-the-clock Support: Moving across time zones? No problem. Our staff is available to assist South African clients and coordinate with our partners in the USA.
- Happy Pets, Happy Owners: We’re proud of the thousands of pets we’ve relocated. Your pet’s health and happiness during travel are our top priorities.
Travelling with pets internationally can be complex, but with Sky Companion by your side, it becomes an exciting new adventure. Let us make your move to the USA safe, joyful, and seamless. 🐾