Pet Transportation from Serbia to the USA
– Regulations and Required Documents

What Are the Requirements for Bringing Pets into the USA?

Key Steps for Preparation

Bringing a dog or cat from Serbia to the United States requires compliance with strict veterinary regulations. Failure to meet these requirements may result in entry denial.

• The minimum age for a dog is 6 months.
• A microchip must be implanted before rabies vaccination.
• The rabies vaccine must be administered at least 28 days before travel.
• Complete the CDC Dog Import Form before travel.

👉 Instructions for completing the CDC Dog Import Form can be found here .



• Obtain a Veterinary Health Certificate, confirming vaccination and microchip details.
• If the dog was vaccinated outside the USA, a confirmed reservation at an approved CDC animal care facility is required (see the list below).

Microchipping

Microchipping is mandatory for all dogs entering the USA from high-risk rabies countries, including Serbia. The chip must comply with ISO 11784/11785 standards. For cats, microchipping is not required but is highly recommended for identification purposes.

Rabies Vaccination for Dogs

• The first rabies vaccine can only be administered at or after 12 weeks of age.
• At least 28 days must pass after the rabies vaccination before travel.
• The vaccine must be valid at the time of entry into the USA.

Rabies Vaccination for Cats

Rabies vaccination for cats is not federally required in the USA. However, some states and cities mandate it under local regulations.

Because state laws frequently change, determining whether a specific location requires vaccination is difficult. To avoid possible complications upon arrival and while staying in the USA, it is recommended to vaccinate your cat against rabies in advance.

🛑 Rabies Antibody Titer Test (Dogs Only)

Dogs arriving in the USA from high-risk rabies countries, such as Serbia, must undergo a blood test to confirm sufficient rabies antibody levels.

• The test must be conducted at least 30 days after rabies vaccination.
• The minimum acceptable antibody level is 0.5 IU/mL.
• A 3-month waiting period after the test is not required. If the result is positive, the dog can travel immediately.
• The test must be performed by a CDC-approved laboratory.

🛑 Booking a CDC-Approved Animal Care Facility (Only for Dogs Without a Rabies Titer Test)

Dogs arriving from high-risk rabies countries and vaccinated outside the USA must have a confirmed reservation at an approved CDC animal care facility.

• Reservations must be made in advance.
• These facilities provide proper quarantine and care for pets.
• Proof of booking is required for entry into the USA.

CDC-Approved Animal Care Facilities

CDC Restrictions

CDC restrictions apply only to dogs.

Cats are not subject to these requirements and do not need a reservation at an animal care facility.

Potential Risks When Traveling

Failure to comply with CDC requirements may result in entry denial.

• The dog may be sent back at the owner’s expense.
• Quarantine may be required for an indefinite period.
• Additional costs may arise for reprocessing documents and re-transportation.

Our Services

• Veterinary Document Check
• Phone Consultation
• Pet Transportation with a Courier