Approved Rabies Serology Laboratories for Testing Dogs

Overview

CDC updates this list of laboratories in accordance with available data. For foreign-vaccinated dogs from high-risk countries, use the table below to ensure blood samples are sent to an approved laboratory for rabies serology testing.

If you have a serology test result from a lab that was previously approved and is no longer on the list below, you will need to get a new serology result from a lab that is currently approved.

Important testing information for importing foreign-vaccinated dogs from high-risk countries for dog rabies into the United States:

• Rabies serology test results must be in English or accompanied by a certified translationA.
• Rabies serology test results must be provided directly from a CDC-approved laboratory and not from a third-party laboratory where the approved laboratory sent the test results.
• The estimated turnaround time for each CDC-approved laboratory varies. It is recommended to talk to the dog’s veterinarian about collecting a blood sample to send to a CDC-approved laboratory for a rabies serology titer at least 60 days or more before travel. If there are questions regarding estimated turnaround time, they should be directed to the CDC-approved laboratories.
• Serology blood samples must be drawn a minimum of 30 days after the dog’s initial valid rabies vaccination and at least 28 days before the date of importation. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination is given.
• Test results are valid for the life of the dog as long as vaccination coverage does not lapse AND as long as the laboratory remains approved.
• Serology test results are only required for dogs with a foreign-issued rabies vaccination certificate entering the United States from a high-risk country. Without these test results, you will be required to make a reservation at a CDC-registered animal care facility and ensure the dog will arrive at the airport where the ACF is located. Your dog will be revaccinated and undergo a 28-day quarantine.

Currently approved rabies serology labs for dogs

If you are importing a foreign-vaccinated dog from a high-risk country, provide rabies serology test results from one of these laboratories. If the laboratory is not on this list, the serology test result will not be accepted.