Puerto Rico introduces new entry rules for cats and dogs
The Puerto Rican government is implementing new rules pertaining to cat and dog owners who plan to bring their furry friends into the country.
Per the government’s new pet import rules, animal owners will need to arrange an examination of their pet by a U.S.-accredited veterinarian, according to Travel Pulse. Upon completion of the exam, the veterinarian will need to issue an interstate health certificate. If the cats or dogs don’t meet Puerto Rico’s standards for entry or have the proper accreditation, the owners will have to return the animals to the U.S. on their own dime.
“Not all veterinarians hold USDA accreditation,” Air Animal Pet Movers founding veterinarian Walter M. Woolf said to Travel Pulse. “Setting up a veterinary appointment for a pet can be tough without guidance from the pet’s regular veterinarian or an experienced pet shipper.”
To make sure that their animals are approved to come to the Caribbean, it is recommended that pet owners microchip for identification, ensure vaccinations are up to date, and acquire the interstate health certificate from an accredited veterinarian.
“Pet parents should always register with a local veterinarian in their new locale to keep their pets’ rabies vaccinations up to date,” Woolf said. “Veterinarians typically send reminder notices when vaccinations are due. If another move is in their future, they will be ready.”
While these are the requirements for cats and dogs, different regulations apply for birds, exotic pets and other animals from different countries. Visit usda.gov for more information.
Roshae Hemmings is an arts and culture magazine journalist from St. Louis, MO. A graduate from the Missouri School of Journalism, Roshae has bylines in the Columbia Missourian, Vox Magazine and 5280 Magazine discussing topics ranging from pop culture, social justice and eat and drink. She is a foodie at heart and enjoys eating food as much as learning about the story behind it. You can reach Roshae via email at roshaehemmings@detourxp.com.
This story was originally published June 1, 2023 at 11:00 AM.