Live Animals

USDA APHIS is the primary agency, enforcing quarantine periods, health certificates, and import permits. For certain wildlife, the US Fish & Wildlife Service also applies CITES and Lacey Act requirements at the port of entry.

Yes. Most live animal shipments must arrive at USDA APHIS-designated ports that have the facilities and inspectors to conduct live-animal quarantine and health inspections. Attempting entry at a non-designated port can result in refusal or costly rerouting.