Rabies vaccine and taking my dog to the U.S.?

Question

I recently got a stray dog. She's so cute and nice. I'm in China right now and I'll be going back to the U.S. in about 2 months. I've researched the requirements to bring my dog into America, and the main one is that she needs to have proof of having the rabies vaccine. Being that she's a stray, I don't know if she's had the vaccine. Let's say she actually has had it recently....is it dangerous if she gets another one? I hope someone can help me. If I can't get her a documented rabies shot, then I can't bring her back with me.

Answer 1

No, it isn't dangerous to get a second rabies shot..Not at all..We give all resued dogs a rabies shot, first thing..It doesn't cause any harm..
Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before entering the United States...Helpful site> http://www.foreignborn.com/visas_imm/entering_us/2bringyourpet.htm

I did ask my vet once, as I was also worried about that. He told me the only time a second shot may be harmful is if it has been less than 2 weeks since the dog had its last one.

Answer 2

Hi there.. being that she was stray, chances are very low that she has not had a rabies vaccination. It will not hurt to do it again, and especially if you are planning on bringing her back she has to have it no ifs ands or buts. Before you do bring her back, i would check with a local animal shelter to make sure she hasn't run away from home. Also, I would get her tested and screened for heartworm, tick borne illnesses.. and basic bloodwork... I work at a vet clinic and we have seen dogs from foreign countries come back and pop up will all sorts of odd things from not being checked properly.
Hope that helps!

Answer 3

Go get her the shot. Most humane societes and rescues in the U.S. give any dog without a medical history shots. She'll be fine.

I also do this with stray dogs as well, if I don't know the medical history they get shots. To protect my other dogs, and myself should the unthinkable happen and the dog bite someone.