Collins Sends Letter to CDC Opposing New Requirements for Bringing Dogs into the United States

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins sent a letter to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) opposing a new rule that would create unnecessary requirements for individuals traveling with their dogs across Maine’s northern and eastern borders into the United States.  

In May, the CDC announced the new requirements in a final rule – including restricting all travel for dogs younger than six months old and requiring numerous new certifications – without appropriate input from stakeholders and affected parties. The final rule is scheduled to take effect on August 1^st. In her letter, Senator Collins asked the CDC not to implement the rule as planned on August 1, and instead work to revise the rule to address the concerns of responsible dog owners and visitors who demonstrate little risk of importing canine rabies.

“I write today regarding the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) final rule relating to importation of dogs into the United States. While I support the CDC’s goal of preventing the spread of canine rabies, I have heard from many constituents with significant concerns about the burdensome effects of this rule, particularly for those from border communities in northern and eastern Maine,” Senator Collins wrote. “I also am aware that there were substantial changes made between the proposed rule and the final rule, which may have limited comments from affected parties and led to an incomplete economic analysis.”

“Residents and businesses on both sides of the U.S-Canada border also depend on each other for economic success,” Senator Collins continued. “The significant financial and regulatory burden this new rule places on Canadian dog owners will restrict travel between the two countries.  The final rule will also affect participation in the Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Race, since the majority of participants are Canadian. Can-Am is the longest and highest caliber dog sled race in the eastern United States. The race attracts hundreds of participants, sponsors, and spectators to northern Maine each March and is a major contributor to the St. John Valley region’s economy. Hundreds of dogs travel to Fort Kent every year for this race.”

Senator Collins sent the letter to the CDC with the support of the American Kennel Club, one of the leading national groups asking for delayed implementation and additional stakeholder engagement before enactment of this rule.

Click HERE to read the full letter.

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