Iowa's Companion Animal Import Requirements

DES MOINES, Iowa (Sept. 10, 2019) - Our thoughts go out to everyone who was affected by Hurricane Dorian. Now that hurricane relief efforts are underway, we encourage all Iowans to help however they can. If you are able to provide aid to lost or abandoned animals and choose to bring them into the state, please remember to follow Iowa’s import requirements outlined in Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 21.65.10.

  • All dogs or cats entering the state must be accompanied by a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI) indicating freedom from disease or exposure to infectious or contagious disease.
  • Dogs or cats originating from a rabies-quarantined area will not be admitted.
  • All dogs over four months of age must have a current rabies vaccination with a USDA-approved rabies vaccine.

The Iowa Department of Agriculture also reminds animal caregivers that biosecurity is key to protecting animals and people in the state of Iowa. Anytime you bring a new animal into your home, commercial breeding facility, animal rescue or animal shelter, we encourage you to isolate it until you confirm it is illness-free. Biosecurity tips can be found at iowaagriculture.gov/biosecurity.

Iowa's companion animal import requirements

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About the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Led by Secretary Mike Naig, the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship serves the rural and urban residents that call Iowa home. Through its 14 diverse bureaus, the Department ensures animal health, food safety and consumer protection. It also promotes conservation efforts to preserve our land and enhance water quality for the next generation. Learn more at iowaagriculture.gov.

Media Contact:
Don McDowell
Communications Director
515-281-3375
Don.McDowell@IowaAgriculture.gov