Introduction
The purpose of quarantine is to ensure rabies is not introduced into the country by an animal traveling from a country known to have rabies (aka non-designated regions). The United States (except for Hawaii) is known as non-designated because – simply put – we have rabies here. Japan has been rabies-free since 1957. In order to ensure continued rabies-free status, Japan has outlined specific steps for dogs entering the country to follow prior to entry. The process involves microchipping, rabies vaccinations, rabies favn titers, a final veterinary health check prior to departure, and the seal of approval from the USDA. Dogs do not need to be isolated during this process. It is merely a waiting period.
For dogs with MVD being considered for surgery in Japan, time is of the essence due to medical instability. Therefore, it is important to expedite the quarantine process, because it will be the determining factor as to when your dog can have surgery. This process requires 180 – 210 days (depending on microchip and rabies status at the time in which you begin this process). This process is optional, it enables your dog to enter Japan without an onsite quarantine hold at the airport detention facility upon entry.
Where to begin
If you live in a non-designated country, like the United States (except Hawaii), you may choose from the following scenarios that match your circumstances to get specific guidelines to follow. If you live in a designated area that is already considered rabies-free, such as Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji Islands, Hawaii and Guam, there are different guidelines to follow here.
Choose from one of the four following scenarios by clicking on the step that best applies to your situation and following each step until completion: (Work with your local veterinarian)
My dog has a microchip and has a current rabies vaccination
My dog does not have a microchip and isn’t current on rabies vaccination
My dog has a microchip but does not have a current rabies vaccination
My dog does not have a microchip and has a current rabies vaccination
