We the signatories on this document are requesting that the CDC reverse the suspension on permits for the entrance of dogs coming from high risk countries.  OUR DOGS ARE PART OF OUR FAMILY!  

The CDC has suspended all permits for entrance of dogs from high risk countries even though they have proper documentation including passing serology (rabies) test.  These tests are done in laboratories here in the USA (eg Kansas Laboratory).  Though the above tests should be enough for entry, the CDC requires dogs to be revaccinated for rabies in an approved center.  Even with the revaccination, dogs are required by CDC to be quarantined in facilities with exorbitant costs (3 days can be as much as $1300.00).  This plus the cost of broker fees, the serology test and plane tickets can easily exceed $3000.00 which is a huge financial burden for families and in many cases completely unaffordable. The permit suspension has forced families to pay thousands of dollars more than before, with many families being forced to leave their dogs behind with a neighbor or family member.  Many of these furry family members end up in the streets or worse - killed or eaten.  Yes, in some of these countries these dogs and cats are eaten for food!!!  This is not to mention the fact that leaving behind our dear pet takes an emotional and psychological toll on the human parents and family.  We need to be able to bring our furry family members with us. 

CDC - you can and need to do better!  
1.  Make the process SIMPLER NOT harder and more expensive. 

2.  STOP the suspension, or change the CDC approval process to ONLY utilize the EXPENSIVE quarantine facilities for cases without proper documentation, so that we can all afford (without regard to financial status) to bring our furry family members with us. 

3.  The requirement for the use of brokers for family pets adds unneeded expense.  Please exclude family pets from the requirement.
4.  Allow for confirmation of an appointment in an approved facility for the revaccination of dogs.