Returning to the U.S. with Dogs from CDC High-Risk Rabies Countries
Important entry rules, the U.S. Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies (USRV), and how Across The Pond Pets helps you avoid costly quarantine and delays.
Updated 2025 — information and links to CDC guidance included. For case review and USDA endorsement support, contact our team.
At a glance
If you travel to — or bring a dog back from — a CDC high-risk rabies country, special rules apply. Without the correct U.S. certification (USRV), dogs may be required to enter the United States through a CDC-approved quarantine facility, which can be costly and time-consuming.
- USRV = U.S. Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies (USRV).
- No USRV often = mandatory CDC quarantine and extensive testing (can exceed $4,000).
- We prepare USDA endorsements, review your case, and advise on vaccinations/tests needed to comply.
Quick actions
Need help now?
- Call: 1-206-317-4515
- Or use our online contact form.
What is the USRV and why it matters
The U.S. Certification of U.S.-Issued Rabies (USRV) is your dog’s rabies vaccination certificate that has been authenticated and endorsed by the USDA. It demonstrates that a dog vaccinated in the U.S. meets CDC re-entry requirements after travel to a high-risk country.
Why get a USRV? Without it, dogs returning from CDC high-risk rabies countries must go through CDC quarantine entry procedures at approved facilities, which can result in large costs and lengthy delays. The USRV is the most direct way to avoid those outcomes when it applies.
How Across The Pond Pets helps
- Case review — our document specialists review your pet’s history and travel timeline to determine whether USRV rules apply.
- Vaccination guidance — we advise if a fresh rabies vaccination is recommended (we avoid unnecessary vaccinations where possible).
- USDA endorsements — we prepare and walk you through the export/export-return paperwork and USDA authentication.
- Testing & documentation — we guide you through titer tests or other testing if required by CDC or destination rules.
- Day-of coordination — paperwork checks before travel, liaising with vets and USDA, and follow-up to confirm compliance.
Typical benefits
- Avoid CDC quarantine and related fees (when USRV applies)
- Reduce delays at return arrival
- Expert help with USDA endorsements and paperwork
- Clear documentation you can keep for travel records
Frequently Asked Questions
Official resources
Downloadable materials
Upload your copy of "2025 DOGS USA RETURN HIGH RISK" to your server and change the link below.
Download the full PDFNeed help preparing your dog’s paperwork for return to the U.S.?
Speak with our document specialists today — we coordinate with your vet and the USDA so your pet returns home safely and smoothly.
Disclaimer: This page summarizes CDC guidance and Across The Pond Pets’ services. CDC rules and country risk designations change from time to time — always confirm current CDC guidance prior to travel. Across The Pond Pets is not the CDC or USDA; we provide consultation and paperwork support to help you comply with federal rules.
