All information listed below pertaining to the entry of pets into the United States can be found on the U.S. Customs & Border Protection website at: http://help.customs.gov
Dogs
Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entering the United States. This requirement does not apply, however, to puppies less than three months of age
A valid rabies vaccination certificate should accompany the animal. This certificate should be in English or be accompanied by a translation. It should identify the animal, the dates of vaccination and expiration, and be signed by a licensed veterinarian. If no expiration date is specified, the certificate is acceptable if the date of vaccination is no more than 12 months before the date of arrival.
If a vaccination has not been performed, or if the certificate is not valid, the animal may be admitted if it is confined upon arrival at a place of the owner's choosing (eg. owners residence). The dog must be vaccinated within four days after arrival at the final destination, but no more than 10 days after arrival at the port of entry. The animal must remain in confinement at home for at least 30 days after being vaccinated.
If the vaccination was performed less than 30 days before arrival, the animal may be admitted but must be confined at home until at least 30 days have passed since the vaccination.
Owners of dogs that do not have a valid rabies certificate are required to fill out and sign a "Notice to Owners & Importers of Dogs" at the port of entry, which is submitted to the quarantine station that oversees the port of entry. Be aware, the quarantine station follows up with the owner's local health department, to ensure the vaccination takes place.
Please check with your airline regarding their requirements for transporting animals. Many airlines require a certificate of health from a veterinarian
Cats
As a general rule, there are no restrictions on bringing domestic cats into the U.S. There are no vaccination requirements for cats, unless they are entering Hawaii or Guam where state's/territory's quarantine restrictions apply. While a rabies certificate is not required for entry into the U.S., domestic cats must be free of evidence of disease communicable to humans when examined by an inspector at the port of entry. If the animal is not in apparent good health, further examination by a licensed veterinarian may be required at the owner's expense.
Please check with your airline regarding their requirements for transporting animals. Many airlines require a certificate of health from a veterinarian.
Birds
Due to the outbreak of Avian Influenza in Israel a temporary ban on all birds from Israel is in effect. Please view the Animal Health & Plant Inspection Service website for more information: www.aphis.usda.gov
