As a small preservation breeder, I am among many who rely on importing dogs from overseas to enhance the genetic diversity of our breeding programs. The current import requirements by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stipulate that puppies must be at least six months old before they can be imported into the United States. This rule is detrimental to both breeders and puppies alike.

The first six months of a puppy's life are critical for socialization and bonding. By enforcing this age requirement, we are missing out on this essential period in a puppy's development. Moreover, breeders overseas are often unwilling or unable to hold onto puppies until they reach six months of age.

Additionally, the cost of importing older puppies increases significantly as they can no longer fit under an airplane seat and must fly in the hold instead. Larger breed puppies, especially those considered brachycephalic by airlines, i.e. boxers, bulldogs, mastiffs, etc. cannot fly in the hold and would have to be imported in manifest cargo which I will be even more cost heavy. All these added expenses make it prohibitive for many breeders to import dogs, thereby limiting our ability to diversify our breeding programs. Many rare breeds will suffer  causing generations of hard work to be discarded.

We understand that these regulations were put in place with public health considerations in mind; however, we urge the CDC to reconsider these rules while still ensuring safety measures are met. We propose an alternative solution where younger puppies could be allowed entry under strict health checks. Even having to wait until puppies have their rabies vaccine would be an improvement over this.

By signing this petition, you're supporting preservation breeders like myself who strive towards improving their programs through increased genetic diversity while also advocating for better welfare conditions for imported dogs. Please sign this petition today!